Saudi Arabia plans new airline to rival Emirates with $37bn Boeing order

A China Southern Airways Boeing Dreamliner 787 plane — Saudi Arabia is set to acquire close to 80. Picture: PA Archive

Saudi Arabia will buy 78 Boeing Dreamliners, as crown prince Mohammed Bin Salman revitalises the country’s flag carrier and oversees the rise of a new international airline that seeks to rival Emirates and Qatar Airways.

The new airline, called Riyadh Air, will buy 39 787-9 jets, with options for 33 more, while existing state-owned carrier Saudia will purchase 39 787's and have a top-up option for another 10, Boeing said.