SAUDI ARABIA. Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, has launched its first premium airport hospitality facility, the Hafawa Lounge at King Khalid International Airport.
Located between terminals 1 and 2, the nearly 2,000sq m lounge offers seating for approximately 370 guests and will be exclusive to Business Class and Business Elite passengers.
The space aims to combine Saudi heritage with modern design and digital-first functionality.
The airline said the high-class facility marks a key step in its ambition “to redefine premium hospitality”.
Global design studio Yabu Pushelberg designed the lounge, which features a mix of limestone, oak wood, bronze and textured plaster finishes, materials chosen to evoke the Saudi desert landscape and natural environment.
The name Hafawa, an Arabic term meaning warmth and hospitality, underscores the airline’s focus on service rooted in local culture.
The lounge is divided into themed zones catering to different traveller needs, including areas for rest, social interaction, dining and digital engagement.
Food & beverage facilities include The Café (barista-prepared coffee and in-house bakery items); buffet and social dining for communal eating; executive dining with à la carte options and garden views; and a Beverage Corner offering premium non-alcoholic drinks.
Other key features include an ‘Immersive Room’ showcasing digital content and experiences; private and family rooms; and a social lounge for informal meetings and relaxation.
Riyadh Air noted that hospitality begins on arrival, with guests greeted with traditional Saudi coffee and dates.
Technology is integrated throughout the experience, including digital wayfinding, interactive displays and barrier-free access, reflecting Riyadh Air’s positioning as a tech-focused airline.
The Hafawa Lounge is the first major physical asset unveiled by Riyadh Air, which is expected to launch commercial flights later this year.
The airline is billed as a central component of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to transform the Kingdom into a global aviation and tourism hub. ✈
