Riyadh Air, a new airline backed by the Saudi government, has announced a partnership with IBM and its consulting subsidiary, IBM Consulting, to embed AI into its operations and decision-making. The airline, which aims to become one of the region’s largest, plans its inaugural flight in late 2025 and will connect passengers to over 100 destinations by 2030.
IBM’s AI products will serve as the foundation for Riyadh Air’s digital transformation, with a focus on customer experience and operational efficiency. The airline will leverage IBM’s watsonx platform and AI technologies to streamline operations, enhance personalized passenger interactions, and ensure compliance with data security, privacy, and responsible AI practices.
Riyadh Air’s Chief Financial Officer, Adam Boukadida, explained that the airline’s vision is to provide a world-class travel experience, which requires an intelligent digital infrastructure. AI will drive this transformation, anticipating passenger needs, optimizing flight operations, and empowering employees.
IBM Consulting will lead the delivery of transformation and change, helping to create use cases for AI-driven automation and digital innovation. Through this collaboration, Riyadh Air aims to set new benchmarks for the future of aviation, creating a seamless, AI-powered travel experience.
Riyadh Air’s focus on AI marks a significant step towards becoming the world’s first truly digital-native airline, revolutionizing air travel in Saudi Arabia and globally.
