en.Wedoany.com Reported - Saudi Arabia's national carrier, Saudia, plans to take delivery of 12 new aircraft throughout 2026 to expand its fleet and support international route growth, tourism demand, and network connectivity. The airline stated that the new aircraft deliveries are part of its long-term transformation strategy, which focuses on enhancing operational capacity, improving efficiency, and increasing international destinations. This announcement comes as Saudi Arabia ramps up investment in aviation and tourism under "Vision 2030," a national strategy aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy away from oil and positioning the country as a global tourism and transportation hub.
Saudia noted that this expansion will drive fleet modernization and strengthen connections between Saudi Arabia and global markets. The airline recently introduced its first Airbus A321XLR aircraft and plans to add Airbus A321neo models to expand narrow-body fleet capacity. According to the company, the A321neo aircraft will feature 20 business-class seats and 168 economy-class seats, with cabins including upgraded seating and high-speed in-flight connectivity.
As competition among Gulf airlines intensifies for long-haul transit traffic, tourist flows, and premium passengers, carriers are increasing investments in next-generation aircraft. Fleet modernization has become a key focus, with airlines seeking higher fuel efficiency and lower operating costs. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, stated that the airline's fleet strategy aims to build capacity, efficiency, and readiness for the next phase of growth. He noted that in the competitive aviation industry, fleet modernization and expansion must be guided by clear market insights, route network demands, and national priorities. Al-Omar added that fleet expansion is accompanied by operational readiness and workforce development, with Saudia having graduated new cohorts of pilots, cabin crew, and maintenance specialists through training programs to support upcoming aircraft deliveries. He mentioned that as Saudia's fleet is expected to reach 161 aircraft by the end of this year, additional groups are undergoing training to support future deliveries.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has aggressively expanded its aviation sector, attracting additional visitors through massive tourism, entertainment, and infrastructure projects. This aviation push has intensified competition among Gulf carriers, with airlines from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar all expanding their fleets, routes, and airport infrastructure to capture growing global travel demand.
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