By Mohamed Attia
EgyptAir and Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national airline, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership. This collaboration aims to offer a range of exclusive benefits to passengers travelling between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, as well as other major destinations. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) General Assembly held in Dubai on June 4, 2024.
The partnership is set to strengthen the longstanding relations between the two countries and enhance co-operation. EgyptAir and Riyadh Air aim to develop a partnership that provides customers with numerous travel options between their networks, connecting to various domestic and international destinations across the Middle East and Africa.
Yehia Zakaria, Chairman of EgyptAir Holding Company, expressed his delight in this strategic co-operation, noting that it aligns with EgyptAir’s aspirations to target new markets and meet customer needs. He highlighted that this partnership will advance EgyptAir’s collaboration with its partners and offer a superior travel experience for customers of both airlines. Zakaria is confident that the partnership will have a positive impact on the clients of both airlines and support the cooperation and relations between Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, expressed his pride in the strategic partnership with EgyptAir, describing it as a significant milestone ahead of Riyadh Air’s inaugural commercial flights in mid-2025. Douglas noted the promising future of air traffic between Riyadh and Cairo due to their geographical proximity, emphasising the need to work together to meet the expected high demand. He added that this co-operation will provide more options for customers travelling between Riyadh and Cairo and other key destinations. The partnership will also encompass loyalty programs and various rewards, which both airlines are eager to offer their passengers.