In this special edition, we’ve rounded up the new aviation partnerships shaping the competitive industry in the Middle East.

Saudia orders 105 Airbus and deepens relationship with Italy’s ITA Airways

Saudia Group has ordered 105 Airbus A320neo Family aircrafts that will be distributed between Saudia and low-cost carrier, flyadeal. The order includes 12 A320neo and 93 A321neo models. The airline has also signed a loyalty program agreement with ITA Airways, allowing travellers to book single tickets with connecting flights, and enjoy points, priority services and more. No doubt these activities will help meet growing travel demands, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s aviation expansion and Vision 2030 goals to attract 150 million tourists by 2030.

Etihad signs with Beijing Daxing and Royal Air Maroc

Etihad signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance connectivity with Africa and China. The first MoU with Beijing Daxing International Airport focuses on strengthening aviation cooperation and boosting travel between the UAE and China. The second MoU with Royal Air Marocaims to deepen commercial and operational ties, improving seamless travel between North Africa and the UAE. These agreements support Etihad’s strategic goals to expand its network and enhance passenger experiences across key regions.

Emirates partners with HiDubai to support SMEs

Emirates has partnered with HiDubai.com, a digital platform from Dubai Economy, to support more than 180,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Dubai. This collaboration allows SMEs to join Emirates’ Business Rewards program, which has over 40,000 SMEs enrolled so far. Offering travel benefits, cost savings, and reward points when flying with Emirates, the initiative aims to help local businesses expand their international reach and optimise operational efficiency.

Riyadh Air partners with Riyadh Airports to improve passenger experience, signs MoU with Singapore Airlines.

Riyadh Air | طيران الرياض (RXI) and Riyadh Airports Company (RAC) have signed an MoU to enhance passenger experiences and improve flight safety and security at King Khalid International Airport. The partnership will focus on leveraging technology and innovation, improving infrastructure, and promoting sustainability. Joint initiatives include optimising aircraft and baggage handling, coordinating terminal plans, and exploring shared training programs. This collaboration supports Saudi Arabia’s National Aviation Strategy and aims to provide world-class services and facilities.

Meanwhile, the airline has also signed an MoU with Singapore Airlines (SIA) to explore interline connectvity opportunities on each other’s services (subject to approval) – potentially providing RXI passengers access to SIA’s network in South East Asia and the South West Pacific region, and SIA customers greater access to the Middle East region through RXI’s network.