Eye-catching, world class and elite, these are just a few of the terms being used to describe Riyadh Air’s recently revealed cabin interiors.

Travellers were given a little sneak peek of the carrier’s onboard product last week, in anticipation of its big launch later this year. 

In a public statement, Riyadh Air hailed the interior of its Boeing 78-9 fleet as a “market-changing premium experience” that will incorporate touches of luxury, comfort, innovative technology, and style. 

“The design, layout, and features of our new cabins are carefully crafted to ensure flights are as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.” said Tony Douglas, Riyadh Air Chief Executive. “From the ergonomic and luxurious fabrics in the seats to the high-end technology used in the entertainment systems, every facet of the cabins has been chosen to deliver relaxing luxury.”

You’re probably wondering, ‘what makes these cabins so special?’ Let’s do a deep dive: 

The Boeing 787-9

First-things-first, Riyadh Air’s configuration will enable 290 people to travel on each aircraft per trip. This is at the higher end of the widebody airline’s average capacity (257-290 passengers). 

While this may sound like a bit of a tight squeeze, Riyadh has promised an “industry-leading approach to the quality and comfort levels of its seating”. This will be achieved through ergonomic comfort and thoughtful details such as curated lighting and a cohesive colour palette of mocha gold, dark indigo, skyline blue, sunset peach and lavender, that is both welcoming and luxurious. 

The Business Class 

Riyadh Business Class cabin, also known as Business Elite, will accommodate 24 people per aircraft in a 1-2-1 layout. 

Beds will be fully flat-bed (we love those) with 22.5 inches in width and 78 inches in length – basketballers will love these seats! 

All beds will be surrounded by 52-inch-high walls with sliding privacy doors. Adjustable privacy dividers are available for strangers seated together in the center seats. 

Each seat will come with a 32-inch monitor screen along with an A/C power outlet, two USB-C and one USB-A charging points. 

The Premium Economy 

For those vying for a Business Class experience but can’t quite afford it yet, Riyadh Air has shaped its Premium Economy to be a close second best. 

The cabin will accommodate 39 people in a 2-3-2 layout with seat pitches of 38 inches and width of 19.2 inches – this is slightly wider than the average 17.2 inches of a 787-9 aircraft. 

Premium Economy passengers will have access to a 15.6-inch monitor as well as head wings for privacy, increased seat storage, versatile and expandable side table design as well as a recliner lounger with calf rest. 

If that wasn’t special enough, each seat also comes with 4 USB-C charging points. 

The Economy 

Last but never the last, is Riyadh Air’s Economy cabin which will be fitted with 6-way adjustable headrests (yes, please!) and not one, but two USB-C charging points.

Up to 223 people will fit in the cabin which will be in a layout of 3-3-3. Seats will have a 31-inch pitch and 17.2-inch width. Each seat will also come with a 13.3-inch monitor. 

Other features and loyalty perks 

Wi-fi will be available onboard each flight but you’ll want to sign up to Riyadh Air’s loyalty club for free access which includes onboard streaming, social scrolling, web browsing and gaming. 

The carrier has also collaborated with Devialet, the high-end French innovator redefining sound, to provide Business Elite and Business Class guests with acoustic technology from their headrests! No need for headphones with this airline. 

What’s next?

Now that you know what Riyadh Air’s uniforms will looks like and what to expect from its cabins, you’re probably wondering… what’s next? 

The carrier recently received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and took delivery of its first technical spare aircraft which means it’s getting really close to unveiling flight plans. According to the airline, its network will be revealed in the next few months along with its official take-off date! 

Stay tuned to Rihlat Travel News for more news from the floor of ATM 2025.