Latest news with #SaudiaGroup
Hamilton Spectator
6 days ago
- Hamilton Spectator
Saudia Unveils New Plans to Support Hajj Spiritual Journey
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the 2025 Hajj season approaches, Saudi Arabia stands ready to welcome pilgrims from around the world to partake in this spiritual journey. Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, known as a sacred and obligatory once-in-a-lifetime worship experience for those who are capable, representing a profound act of spiritual submission, unity, and humility before God. In 2025, Hajj season is expected to take place from June 4-9, depending on lunar observations. This year, the minimum age for participation is 12 years old, and all pilgrims must obtain a Hajj visa to attend. For those considering participating in Hajj or visiting Saudi Arabia, Saudia Airlines (Saudia) provides a world-class travel experience to support your spiritual journey. As the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Saudia's non-stop service from New York, Washington, Toronto, and Los Angeles offers an easy entry point from the United States and Canada to Jeddah, Riyadh, and Medina. Saudia Group has announced its ambitious plans for the 2025 Hajj season, marking its official entry into the Hajj services sector with the aim of transforming the pilgrimage experience. For the first time, Saudia will act as a comprehensive Hajj service provider, expanding its offerings beyond air travel to encompass a wide array of innovative services that address every aspect of the pilgrim journey. On World Creativity and Innovation Day, Saudia unveiled 'The Coolest Ihram,' a revolutionary, high-tech garment developed with Landor and brrr® to cool the body during Hajj and Umrah rituals. The Coolest Ihram uses advanced cooling technology to lower skin temperature by 1 – 2 degrees Celsius and offers UPF 50+ sun protection, creating a comfortable microclimate for pilgrims. This innovation reinforces Saudia's leadership in enhancing the religious tourism experience. Saudia is allocating over one million seats utilizing a modern fleet of 158 aircraft. With a projected market share of up to 35%, the airline will serve pilgrims from over 100 global destinations. The end-to-end travel experience is designed to maximize comfort and efficiency, from ticket issuance to streamlined arrival and departure processes. Saudia is coordinating extensively with public and private sector partners to ensure smooth operations across all airport touchpoints, with more than 11,000 frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians mobilized to serve pilgrims across a 74-day operational window. Further enhancing the luxury experience, Saudia Group will introduce Business Class-style beds and dedicated rest areas inspired by Alfursan lounges at the holy sites. To improve the overall pilgrimage experience, Saudia provides a range of services, including easy boarding pass issuance for both outbound and return flights, supported by multilingual staff for seamless communication. Onboard, pilgrims can enjoy diverse meal options, timely prayer and Miqat announcements, and specially curated educational programs developed with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Additional services for individuals with special needs, such as transportation for people with disabilities, onboard oxygen, and medical stretcher services, will also be available, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive journey for all. About Saudia Saudia (Saudia Airlines) is the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, the company has grown to become one of the Middle East's largest airlines. Saudia has invested significantly in upgrading its aircraft and currently operates one of the youngest fleets. The airline serves an extensive global route network covering around 100 destinations across four continents, including all 28 domestic airports in Saudi Arabia. A member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), Saudia has also been a member airline in SkyTeam, the second largest alliance, since 2012. Saudia was recently recognized as the World's Most Improved Airline 2024 by Skytrax, marking the third time it has received this accolade, alongside 14 other distinguished awards. Saudia has been honored as the World Class Airline for 2024 at The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ awards, marking the third consecutive year the airline has received this prestigious recognition. Additionally, ranked top among global airlines for best on-time performance (OTP) according to a report by Cirium. For more information on Saudia, please visit . Media Center Saudi Arabian Airlines Headquarters Jeddah 21231, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Email: mediacenter@
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Yahoo
Saudia Unveils New Plans to Support Hajj Spiritual Journey
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As the 2025 Hajj season approaches, Saudi Arabia stands ready to welcome pilgrims from around the world to partake in this spiritual journey. Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, known as a sacred and obligatory once-in-a-lifetime worship experience for those who are capable, representing a profound act of spiritual submission, unity, and humility before God. In 2025, Hajj season is expected to take place from June 4-9, depending on lunar observations. This year, the minimum age for participation is 12 years old, and all pilgrims must obtain a Hajj visa to attend. For those considering participating in Hajj or visiting Saudi Arabia, Saudia Airlines (Saudia) provides a world-class travel experience to support your spiritual journey. As the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Saudia's non-stop service from New York, Washington, Toronto, and Los Angeles offers an easy entry point from the United States and Canada to Jeddah, Riyadh, and Medina. Saudia Group has announced its ambitious plans for the 2025 Hajj season, marking its official entry into the Hajj services sector with the aim of transforming the pilgrimage experience. For the first time, Saudia will act as a comprehensive Hajj service provider, expanding its offerings beyond air travel to encompass a wide array of innovative services that address every aspect of the pilgrim journey. On World Creativity and Innovation Day, Saudia unveiled "The Coolest Ihram," a revolutionary, high-tech garment developed with Landor and brrr® to cool the body during Hajj and Umrah rituals. The Coolest Ihram uses advanced cooling technology to lower skin temperature by 1 – 2 degrees Celsius and offers UPF 50+ sun protection, creating a comfortable microclimate for pilgrims. This innovation reinforces Saudia's leadership in enhancing the religious tourism experience. Saudia is allocating over one million seats utilizing a modern fleet of 158 aircraft. With a projected market share of up to 35%, the airline will serve pilgrims from over 100 global destinations. The end-to-end travel experience is designed to maximize comfort and efficiency, from ticket issuance to streamlined arrival and departure processes. Saudia is coordinating extensively with public and private sector partners to ensure smooth operations across all airport touchpoints, with more than 11,000 frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians mobilized to serve pilgrims across a 74-day operational window. Further enhancing the luxury experience, Saudia Group will introduce Business Class-style beds and dedicated rest areas inspired by Alfursan lounges at the holy sites. To improve the overall pilgrimage experience, Saudia provides a range of services, including easy boarding pass issuance for both outbound and return flights, supported by multilingual staff for seamless communication. Onboard, pilgrims can enjoy diverse meal options, timely prayer and Miqat announcements, and specially curated educational programs developed with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Additional services for individuals with special needs, such as transportation for people with disabilities, onboard oxygen, and medical stretcher services, will also be available, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive journey for all. About Saudia Saudia (Saudia Airlines) is the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, the company has grown to become one of the Middle East's largest airlines. Saudia has invested significantly in upgrading its aircraft and currently operates one of the youngest fleets. The airline serves an extensive global route network covering around 100 destinations across four continents, including all 28 domestic airports in Saudi Arabia. A member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), Saudia has also been a member airline in SkyTeam, the second largest alliance, since 2012. Saudia was recently recognized as the World's Most Improved Airline 2024 by Skytrax, marking the third time it has received this accolade, alongside 14 other distinguished awards. Saudia has been honored as the World Class Airline for 2024 at The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ awards, marking the third consecutive year the airline has received this prestigious recognition. Additionally, ranked top among global airlines for best on-time performance (OTP) according to a report by Cirium. For more information on Saudia, please visit Media Center Saudi Arabian Airlines Headquarters Jeddah 21231, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Email: mediacenter@ in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Yahoo
Saudia Unveils New Plans to Support Hajj Spiritual Journey
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As the 2025 Hajj season approaches, Saudi Arabia stands ready to welcome pilgrims from around the world to partake in this spiritual journey. Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, known as a sacred and obligatory once-in-a-lifetime worship experience for those who are capable, representing a profound act of spiritual submission, unity, and humility before God. In 2025, Hajj season is expected to take place from June 4-9, depending on lunar observations. This year, the minimum age for participation is 12 years old, and all pilgrims must obtain a Hajj visa to attend. For those considering participating in Hajj or visiting Saudi Arabia, Saudia Airlines (Saudia) provides a world-class travel experience to support your spiritual journey. As the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Saudia's non-stop service from New York, Washington, Toronto, and Los Angeles offers an easy entry point from the United States and Canada to Jeddah, Riyadh, and Medina. Saudia Group has announced its ambitious plans for the 2025 Hajj season, marking its official entry into the Hajj services sector with the aim of transforming the pilgrimage experience. For the first time, Saudia will act as a comprehensive Hajj service provider, expanding its offerings beyond air travel to encompass a wide array of innovative services that address every aspect of the pilgrim journey. On World Creativity and Innovation Day, Saudia unveiled "The Coolest Ihram," a revolutionary, high-tech garment developed with Landor and brrr® to cool the body during Hajj and Umrah rituals. The Coolest Ihram uses advanced cooling technology to lower skin temperature by 1 – 2 degrees Celsius and offers UPF 50+ sun protection, creating a comfortable microclimate for pilgrims. This innovation reinforces Saudia's leadership in enhancing the religious tourism experience. Saudia is allocating over one million seats utilizing a modern fleet of 158 aircraft. With a projected market share of up to 35%, the airline will serve pilgrims from over 100 global destinations. The end-to-end travel experience is designed to maximize comfort and efficiency, from ticket issuance to streamlined arrival and departure processes. Saudia is coordinating extensively with public and private sector partners to ensure smooth operations across all airport touchpoints, with more than 11,000 frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians mobilized to serve pilgrims across a 74-day operational window. Further enhancing the luxury experience, Saudia Group will introduce Business Class-style beds and dedicated rest areas inspired by Alfursan lounges at the holy sites. To improve the overall pilgrimage experience, Saudia provides a range of services, including easy boarding pass issuance for both outbound and return flights, supported by multilingual staff for seamless communication. Onboard, pilgrims can enjoy diverse meal options, timely prayer and Miqat announcements, and specially curated educational programs developed with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Additional services for individuals with special needs, such as transportation for people with disabilities, onboard oxygen, and medical stretcher services, will also be available, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive journey for all. About Saudia Saudia (Saudia Airlines) is the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, the company has grown to become one of the Middle East's largest airlines. Saudia has invested significantly in upgrading its aircraft and currently operates one of the youngest fleets. The airline serves an extensive global route network covering around 100 destinations across four continents, including all 28 domestic airports in Saudi Arabia. A member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), Saudia has also been a member airline in SkyTeam, the second largest alliance, since 2012. Saudia was recently recognized as the World's Most Improved Airline 2024 by Skytrax, marking the third time it has received this accolade, alongside 14 other distinguished awards. Saudia has been honored as the World Class Airline for 2024 at The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ awards, marking the third consecutive year the airline has received this prestigious recognition. Additionally, ranked top among global airlines for best on-time performance (OTP) according to a report by Cirium. For more information on Saudia, please visit Media Center Saudi Arabian Airlines Headquarters Jeddah 21231, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Email: mediacenter@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Arabian Business
04-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Saudia offers more than 1m Hajj seats and plans $27m investment in Makkah, Madinah
Saudia Group has unveiled its comprehensive plan for the 2025 Hajj Season, announcing its official entry into the Hajj services sector, aiming to redefine the pilgrimage experience. For the first time, the Group will serve as a full Hajj service provider, marking a new chapter in its commitment to elevating the spiritual journey of pilgrims. Its offerings will now extend far beyond air travel to include a range of innovative services that cater to every aspect of the pilgrim experience. Saudia Hajj 2025 From the initial planning stage to the smallest details at the holy sites, pilgrims will benefit from enhanced support and care. Saudia Group will offer more than one million seats over a 74-day period and utilize its fleet of 158 aircraft, capturing 35 per cent of the market share. This commitment aligns with the directives of the Saudi leadership and is supported by collaborations with various government and private entities involved in serving Hajj pilgrims. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, said: 'Hajj remains one of our top national priorities. This year, we're proud to not only manage air operations at full capacity but to also extend our role to become a direct service provider to pilgrims. 'Through this expansion, we aim to deliver a holistic experience that meets the highest standards of care and hospitality. 'We're investing over SR100m ($26.7m) in Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites to provide pilgrims with thoughtfully curated service packages, to redefine the concept of Hajj service delivery, setting a new standard for excellence.' Adopting a direct-to-consumer (B2C) model for these new offerings, in accordance with the directives of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Saudia Group will serve approximately 1,400 international pilgrims from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. The holistic approach of the Group and its subsidiaries will enhance the quality of services provided to Hajj pilgrims, including hotel accommodations overlooking the Two Holy Mosques and catering tailored to the pilgrims' local tastes. As part of its luxury-focused initiatives, Saudia Group will also bring enhanced comfort and privacy to the holy sites, introducing Business Class-style beds and dedicated rest areas inspired by Alfursan lounges. Consistent with its commitment to local development, Saudia Group has dedicated 29 per cent of its procurement and investments to supporting local content, driving economic growth within the Kingdom. This is further reinforced through the recruitment of qualified national talent and the training of future professionals at Saudia Academy in key areas such as crowd management and exceptional service delivery. In tandem with this milestone, Saudia started its operational plan for this year's Hajj season. More than 11,000 employees, representing frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians, are contributing to deliver smooth operations across airports, working in close coordination with government and private entities. The 'Makkah Route' initiative is expected to serve more than 120,000 pilgrims, while the 'Luggage First' service will manage approximately 270,000 bags and 240,000 Zamzam bottles. This week, Saudia welcomed the arrival of the first Hajj flight SV3803 from Dhaka, Bangladesh, carrying 396 pilgrims to King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. To enhance the pilgrims' experience, Saudia offers a range of services, including convenient boarding pass issuance for both outbound and return flights at the airports. Its multilingual staff ensure seamless communication, delivering top-notch service with expertise. Onboard Saudia flights, pilgrims will enjoy diverse meal options, timely prayer and Miqat announcements, and specially curated programs in collaboration with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah that provide guidance on rituals and local regulations.
Zawya
03-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Saudia Group redefines the Hajj experience with launch of new Hajj services for 2025
Jeddah: Saudia Group has unveiled its comprehensive plan for the 2025 Hajj Season, announcing its official entry into the Hajj services sector, aiming to redefine the pilgrimage experience. For the first time, the Group will serve as a full Hajj service provider, marking a new chapter in its commitment to elevating the spiritual journey of pilgrims. Its offerings will now extend far beyond air travel to include a range of innovative services that cater to every aspect of the pilgrim experience. From the initial planning stage to the smallest details at the holy sites, pilgrims will benefit from enhanced support and care. In line with this vision, Saudia Group will offer more than one million seats over a 74-day period and utilize its fleet of 158 aircraft, capturing 35% of the market share. This commitment aligns with the directives of the Saudi leadership and is supported by collaborations with various government and private entities involved in serving Hajj pilgrims. H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, said: "Hajj remains one of our top national priorities. This year, we're proud to not only manage air operations at full capacity but to also extend our role to become a direct service provider to pilgrims. Through this expansion, we aim to deliver a holistic experience that meets the highest standards of care and hospitality." He continued, "We're investing over SAR 100 million in Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites to provide pilgrims with thoughtfully curated service packages, to redefine the concept of Hajj service delivery, setting a new standard for excellence." Adopting a direct-to-consumer (B2C) model for these new offerings, in accordance with the directives of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Saudia Group will serve approximately 1,400 international pilgrims from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. The holistic approach of the Group and its subsidiaries will enhance the quality of services provided to Hajj pilgrims, including hotel accommodations overlooking the Two Holy Mosques and catering tailored to the pilgrims' local tastes. As part of its luxury-focused initiatives, Saudia Group will also bring enhanced comfort and privacy to the holy sites, introducing Business Class-style beds and dedicated rest areas inspired by Alfursan lounges. Consistent with its commitment to local development, Saudia Group has dedicated 29% of its procurement and investments to supporting local content, driving economic growth within the Kingdom. This is further reinforced through the recruitment of qualified national talent and the training of future professionals at Saudia Academy in key areas such as crowd management and exceptional service delivery. In tandem with this milestone, Saudia started its operational plan for this year's Hajj season. Over 11,000 employees, representing frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians, are contributing to deliver smooth operations across airports, working in close coordination with government and private entities. The 'Makkah Route' initiative is expected to serve over 120,000 pilgrims, while the 'Luggage First' service will manage approximately 270,000 bags and 240,000 Zamzam bottles. This week, Saudia welcomed the arrival of the first Hajj flight SV3803 from Dhaka, Bangladesh, carrying 396 pilgrims to King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. The welcoming reception was attended by distinguished guests, including H.E. Engr. Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, and H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, alongside executives from Jeddah Airports Company and other government sectors. To enhance the pilgrims' experience, Saudia offers a range of services, including convenient boarding pass issuance for both outbound and return flights at the airports. Its multilingual staff ensure seamless communication, delivering top-notch service with expertise. Onboard Saudia flights, pilgrims will enjoy diverse meal options, timely prayer and Miqat announcements, and specially curated programs in collaboration with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah that provide guidance on rituals and local regulations. Additional services for individuals with special needs will also be available, including transportation for people with disabilities, onboard oxygen, and medical stretcher services as required. About Saudia Group Saudia Group is one of the largest aviation conglomerates in the MENA region. The Group drives industry development with its 13 subsidiaries, and offers world-class air transport, cargo services, ground services, logistics, maintenance, catering, private aviation, real estate, training, and medical services. The mission of Saudia Group is to inspire people to go beyond borders with a purpose that is rooted in unlocking human potential and connecting the world in ways never thought possible. The group is committed to reshaping the aviation ecosystem in the MENA region and beyond, by embracing innovation and a customer-centric approach. Media Center Saudia Group: Saudi Arabian Airlines Headquarters Jeddah 21231, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Email: MediaCenter@ X: @SaudiaGroup Linkedin: SAUDI AIRLINES WhatsApp: Saudia Group | مجموعة السعودية
