Saudia

Saudia is the national airline of Saudi Arabia, flying from Jeddah and Riyadh to more than 100 destinations across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. Economy is sold as Saver, Basic, Semi Flex and Flex, only Saver has no checked bag, and power banks cannot be charged on domestic flights. This guide covers power bank rules, check-in, Hajj and Umrah travel and how it compares with Emirates and Qatar Airways.

Saudia was founded in 1945 and joined SkyTeam in 2012. It flies Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft on long-haul routes and Airbus A320-family jets on shorter routes.

Power Bank Rules on Saudia

Saudi Arabia tightened its rules in May 2026:

• Passengers and crew cannot charge power banks on board flights within Saudi Arabia.
• Power banks must be carried in cabin baggage, never in checked bags.
• Up to 100 Wh is allowed without approval; 100–160 Wh needs approval from the airline.

Check-In in Jeddah and Riyadh

Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure on the website and app. Arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.

Jeddah’s Terminal 1 handles most of the airline’s flights, while Hajj and Umrah charters may use the separate Hajj Terminal.

Families and Special Assistance

Infants under two travel on an adult’s lap and get a reduced allowance. Bassinets can be requested on long-haul flights. Wheelchairs and other special assistance should be requested at least 48 hours in advance.

Children travelling alone can use the airline’s escort service, which should be booked at least 48 hours in advance through the call centre or a sales office.

Hajj, Umrah and Zamzam Water

The airline carries millions of pilgrims each year:

• Jeddah is the closest major airport to Makkah, and Medina has its own airport.
• On flights from Jeddah and Medina, a 5-litre container of Zamzam water is usually accepted in addition to your baggage, in its sealed official packaging.
• Book early for Ramadan and Hajj season, when fares rise sharply.

How to Find Cheap Saudia Flights

• Compare Saver with Basic if you need a checked bag.
• Avoid Ramadan, Hajj and school holiday peaks.
• Book international flights two to three months ahead.
• Use AlFursan miles for upgrades and award flights.
• Compare airlines: use the FlightSelects flight search to see its fares next to Emirates, Qatar Airways and others.

Saudia vs Emirates vs Qatar Airways

Three full-service airlines from the Gulf.

See our Emirates guide and Qatar Airways guide to compare.

Arriving in Jeddah

King Abdulaziz International Airport is about 20 km north of central Jeddah. The Haramain high-speed railway links the airport with Makkah and Medina, and taxis and ride-hailing apps serve the city.

Travellers on Umrah can use their visa to visit other Saudi cities, so a stop in Riyadh, AlUla or Medina is easy to add. Domestic connections on the same ticket keep your bags checked through to your final airport.

You can also book an airport transfer in advance at a fixed price.

Is Saudia a Good Airline?

Yes. It offers a modern fleet, generous baggage on most fares, SkyTeam connections and a huge network from Saudi Arabia, making it a strong choice for pilgrims and business travellers.

Its newer Boeing 787 and Airbus A320neo aircraft have in-flight entertainment and Wi-Fi on many routes, and the airline does not serve alcohol on board.

For more options, see our airline guides and the FlightSelects travel blog.

Facts checked in October 2026 against CabinZero’s 2026 baggage guide and Wego on GCC baggage fees. Rules change, so check the official website before you travel.