Riyadh Air Extends Founding Membership Window for Sfeer Loyalty Program

Riyadh Air, the ambitious newcomer in the Middle East aviation sector, continues to capture the attention of frequent flyers worldwide. As we move through 2026, the airline’s loyalty program, Sfeer, remains in its Founders Stage, offering travelers a rare opportunity to secure a permanent Founding Member designation on their digital membership cards. This extension comes nearly a year after the program's initial debut, signaling a unique approach to building a loyal customer base from the ground up during its critical early years of operation.

Becoming a Founding Member is more than just a title; Riyadh Air has promised that this select group will enjoy exclusive benefits and rewards that will not be accessible to regular members who join in the future. While the specific details of these perks remain under wraps, the permanent status ensures that early adopters will be recognized as the airline expands its footprint across the globe. For many travelers, the allure of being part of an airline's history from day one is a significant draw, especially as the carrier positions itself as a premium player in the region.

A Strategic Expansion in Saudi Arabia

Riyadh Air is positioning itself as a luxury-oriented alternative and the second major carrier in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, complementing the established flag carrier. The goal is clear: to connect the capital city to the rest of the world and transform it into a global transit hub. With a target of reaching over 100 destinations within the next five years, the airline is heavily investing in a modern fleet from both Boeing and Airbus to ensure a high-quality passenger experience.

Travelers can expect a sophisticated on-board atmosphere, though it is important to note the airline's service philosophy. Aligning with local customs, Riyadh Air is expected to operate as a dry airline, meaning alcoholic beverages will not be served on board. Instead, the carrier is focusing its efforts on high-quality gourmet dining, cutting-edge in-flight entertainment, and exceptional hospitality that reflects the cultural values and modern vision of its home base.

Future Horizons and Fleet Growth

While Riyadh Air has already successfully launched operations to major European hubs like London, its full potential is yet to be realized. The airline's ultra-long-haul strategy is currently waiting for the arrival of the Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. These state-of-the-art planes are scheduled for delivery starting in 2027, which will allow the carrier to launch non-stop flights to distant markets in the Americas and the Asia-Pacific region, further solidifying its status as a global competitor.

Industry experts have noted that the prolonged Founders Stage for the Sfeer program is an unconventional move. Typically, such designations are limited to the very first months of an airline's existence. However, by keeping the window open, Riyadh Air is maximizing its ability to attract high-value travelers who are looking for a fresh alternative in the luxury aviation market. This strategy allows the airline to build a massive database of loyal customers before its fleet reaches full capacity.

Why Join Sfeer Now?

For those who enjoy being part of a new travel era, joining Sfeer today offers several potential advantages as the airline matures:

• A permanent Founding Member badge visible on your membership profile for life.
• Anticipated early access to future promotions, special fares, and new route launches.
• Potential for exclusive lounge access and priority services as the infrastructure in Riyadh expands.
• The opportunity to be part of one of the fastest-growing aviation stories of the decade.

While the program currently lacks a traditional status match promotion, the long-term vision for Sfeer is to become a competitive player in the global loyalty landscape. As Riyadh Air continues to receive new aircraft and expand its network throughout 2026 and beyond, the value of being a Founding Member is likely to increase. For savvy travelers, signing up now is a low-effort move that could pay off significantly as the airline becomes a staple of international travel.