After World War II, Saudi Arabia began using the DC-3 to carry passengers and cargo between Jeddah, Riyadh and Dhahran. The service proved so successful that King Abdulaziz ordered the purchase of two more DC-3s. The DC-3 was the foundation of Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia).

In 1962, Saudi Arabian Airlines introduced 720Bs into service—becoming the first airline in the Middle East to operate commercial jets.

Over the years, Saudia has taken delivery of most Boeing airplane models, including the 707, 737, 747, 777, 787, MD-11F, DC-3, DC-4, DC-9 and MD-90.

In March 2023, Saudia and the kingdom’s new airline, Riyadh Air, announced their intent to purchase up to 121 787 Dreamliners. Saudia  ordered up to 49 Boeing 787 Dreamliners; and Riyadh Air will launch with a fleet of up to 72 787-9 Dreamliners.

In May 2025, AviLease, a global aircraft lessor headquartered in Saudi Arabia, ordered its first direct order for Boeing airplanes with a firm purchase for 20 737-8 jets and options for 10 more.

The Saudi market also represents about 70% of Boeing Business Jet sales in the Arabian Gulf region. Different Boeing aircraft types in VIP configuration — including 727, 737, 747, 757, 767, 777 and 787 — have been ordered or currently operate in the kingdom.

Boeing’s partnership with the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) began in 1978, when the kingdom selected the initial F-15C/D fleet. This decision cemented the F-15 fighter jet as the backbone of the RSAF’s air defense.

Following the initial agreement, the 1980s brought the inclusion of the E-3 Sentry and AH-64 Apache attack helicopters into the RSAF’s portfolio, further diversifying their defense capabilities. The RSAF’s operational efficiency during Operation Desert Storm catalyzed an expansion of its fleet with additional F-15C/Ds and F-15S Strike Eagles.

The RSAF’s fleet underwent a significant expansion in December 2011 following a landmark agreement with the U.S. The agreement, which is considered the largest in U.S. history, encompassed F-15SA fighters, AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, and AH-6 light attack/armed reconnaissance helicopters.

Further adding to the RSAF’s capabilities are other Boeing defense products currently in operation within the kingdom. These include E-3A AWACS aircraft and KC-3A cargo/tanker planes.

In August 2017, the Ministry of the National Guard of Saudi Arabia received its first AH-6 Little Bird, marking the kingdom’s maiden venture into operating light attack and reconnaissance helicopters. Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia was inducted as Boeing’s 20th global Chinook operator.

This followed a U.S. Army contract for eight heavy-lift helicopters tailored for the kingdom. Subsequently, Saudi Arabia expressed a requirement for a total of 48 CH-47F Chinooks, with the first six delivered to date.

Boeing continues to expand its services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and is committed to growing indigenous capabilities. Currently, more than 100 employees and partners support commercial and government customers in the kingdom.

Boeing provides sustainment solutions to a number of defense platforms, including AH-6, AH-64, CH-47F, F-15, and the 707-based AWACS and tankers. Boeing Saudi Arabia also supports the training for the F-15SA and 707 boom operator training refueling arm system. The current Saudization rate for training programs in Boeing Saudi Arabia is 100%.

Commercial airlines supported in the country include Saudia and flynas. Boeing offers spare parts and supply chain solutions to maintain fleets; training services for airline personnel; engineering and modifications services to enhance commercial fleets; and a broad range of digital solutions for flight and maintenance operations.

Boeing Saudi Arabia – Riyadh
Qurtubah District 

The Business Gate

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Tel: +966 11 276 2100