Saudia unveils premium economy cabin for Boeing 787s in 2027

Saudia, the flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has unveiled a new premium economy cabin that is due to enter service in 2027, initially on newly delivered Boeing 787 aircraft. According to Travel Daily Media, the product was shown at World Travel Market (WTM) London 2026 and promises more legroom, larger screens and more privacy than economy.

What the new cabin offers

Travel Daily Media reports that the cabin is designed to sit between economy and business class. Seat pitch will be up to 43 inches. Seats will have 15.5-inch entertainment screens, extendable calf rests, additional personal storage and enhanced privacy features.

The cabin is part of the airline's wider New Saudia Experience programme, which covers upgraded aircraft interiors, onboard services and a more personalised journey. Arved von zur Muehlen, Saudia's Chief Commercial Officer, said the launch "marks another step in enhancing the choices and comfort available to our guests".

Rollout across the fleet

The first aircraft to carry the product will be newly delivered Boeing 787s in 2027. Saudia also plans to introduce it progressively on selected aircraft in its existing Airbus A330, Boeing 777 and Boeing 787 fleets through a phased retrofit programme, according to the same report.

The airline has not yet said which routes will get premium economy first, and has not announced pricing.

A321XLR business class also shown

Alongside the new cabin, Saudia showed the business class on its Airbus A321XLR, which joined the fleet earlier in 2026. The airline says it is the first carrier in the Middle East and Africa to operate the type. Travel Daily Media says the aircraft has 24 business suites with fully flat beds and direct aisle access, plus 120 economy seats. Saudia also presented new amenity kits, dining service ware and other onboard items across its cabins.

What this means for travellers

A mid-priced option with more space and privacy than economy is planned for Saudia's long-haul fleet from 2027, so it will not be available immediately.
Because the product will arrive first on new Boeing 787s and then via retrofits, it will likely appear on some aircraft before others. Which flights get it is not yet known.
Routes and fares have not been announced, so travellers cannot yet book or compare premium economy prices.
Those wanting a flat bed on shorter international routes may find the A321XLR business class relevant, though the sources do not list its routes.