Riyadh Air‘s first lounge opens at King Khalid International Airport

Riyadh Air has announced the opening of the Hafawa Lounge, its first premium airport lounge at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Designed in collaboration with the internationally acclaimed multidisciplinary studio Yabu Pushelberg, the space marks a significant milestone ahead of the airline’s anticipated commercial launch.

Located between Terminals 1 and 2, the Hafawa Lounge spans nearly 2000 square meters and is designed to comfortably accommodate approximately 370 Business Elite and Business Class guests.

Rather than a single open-plan environment, the lounge is conceived as a sequence of interconnected rooms, each supporting different moods and allowing guests to shape their own pre-flight experience.

A sculptural arrival zone creates a clear transition from terminal to sanctuary, leading into the central Pantry, designed for informal dining and social interaction. Along expansive runway-facing windows, the Balcony Café offers a more vibrant atmosphere, while quieter spaces such as The Study and The Parlor evoke the intimacy of private living rooms, encouraging guests to slow down and linger.

Social energy gathers around the Cabinet and the more intimate Cellar, conceived as layered destinations within the lounge. Spa-inspired bathrooms, garden-facing seating areas, and private sleeping pods – designed to accommodate both individual travellers and families – provide dedicated moments for retreat and restoration.

Guests are welcomed with traditional Saudi coffee and premium dates, a simple yet meaningful gesture that grounds the experience in the spirit of Hafawa and Saudi hospitality.

The opening of the lounge signals Riyadh Air’s design-forward approach and commitment to premium comfort as the airline prepares for commercial operations – offering an early glimpse into the brand’s broader vision for luxury air travel.