IBM (NYSE: IBM) has announced a new collaboration with Riyadh Air, which will integrate IBM’s AI products, including watsonx and IBM Consulting’s AI solutions, to establish a robust AI-driven enterprise system. This agreement marks a major milestone for Riyadh Air as it prepares for its inaugural flights in late 2025, positioning the airline as the world’s first digital-native carrier.
The partnership was unveiled at the FII PRIORITY MIAMI 2025 Summit, where senior executives from both companies, including Adam Boukadida, Riyadh Air’s Chief Financial Officer, and Mohamad Ali, Senior Vice President and Head of IBM Consulting, discussed their commitment to transforming the aviation industry.
Riyadh Air is determined to provide a world-class experience by leveraging intelligent digital systems to enhance passenger services, streamline operations, and support employees. “Riyadh Air is more than just an airline; it is a gateway to new opportunities for travelers,” said Adam Boukadida. “Our vision is to redefine the travel experience by pioneering innovations and expanding our reach. By deepening our collaboration with IBM, we aim to harness AI to optimize both customer interactions and flight operations.”
Under the agreement, IBM’s watsonx AI platform will serve as the foundation of Riyadh Air’s AI-driven transformation, ensuring mission-critical operations run efficiently. The AI solutions will also foster open innovation through multi-model AI, with a particular focus on data security, privacy, and responsible AI adoption. Additionally, Riyadh Air will deploy autonomous bots using Agentic AI to enable seamless, personalized system interactions for both customers and employees.
IBM will lead the deployment of watsonx and AI use case development using IBM Garage methodology, which fosters automation and digital transformation. The collaboration also includes the implementation of AI-powered Virtual Assistants, designed to streamline customer and employee self-service.
“By embedding watsonx at the core of its operations, Riyadh Air is taking an AI-first approach to set new industry standards as the world’s first digital-native airline,” said Mohamad Ali. “We are working together to enhance traveler experiences, optimize operations, and shape the future of aviation in Saudi Arabia and beyond.”
This partnership with IBM Consulting is the result of Riyadh Air’s successful previous engagements with IBM, which built a foundation of trust. Hands-on workshops showcased real-world AI applications that will benefit both guests and employees, with IBM’s immersive engagement model playing a significant role in strengthening this collaboration.
Riyadh Air’s AI-driven approach is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to serve 330 million passengers annually by 2030 and establish the Kingdom as a global aviation hub. The airline’s AI integration sets a new benchmark for digital-native airlines, promising a highly personalized and efficient travel experience.
About Riyadh Air
Riyadh Air, launched in March 2023 and owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is a digitally-led, full-service airline. It is committed to adopting global sustainability and safety practices while offering cutting-edge digital in-flight entertainment and connectivity solutions. By 2030, Riyadh Air aims to connect over 100 destinations worldwide, with a focus on delivering an exceptional guest experience and authentic Saudi hospitality.
About IBM
IBM is a global leader in hybrid cloud, AI, and consulting services. The company helps organizations worldwide transform through insights derived from their data and advanced AI solutions. With over 4,000 clients in critical sectors, including healthcare, financial services, and telecommunications, IBM provides cutting-edge technologies and consulting to drive digital transformations securely and efficiently.
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