Could this be the most elegant airport lounge in Saudi Arabia?
Paving the way for a world-class airline
It’s the airline everyone is talking about – Riyadh Air. Since launching its first daily flights to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) last October, excitement has been sky-high.
But that’s not all. Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier has also officially opened its inaugural premium lounge, the Hafawa Lounge, at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
Situated between terminals 1 and 2, the nearly 2,000-square-metre lounge provides seating for around 370 guests and is reserved for Business Class and Business Elite passengers only.
Inside the Hafawa Lounge
Designed by acclaimed global studio Yabu Pushelberg, the Hafawa Lounge features limestone, oak wood, and textured plaster elements, drawing inspiration from the stunning natural landscapes of Saudi Arabia.
Lighting also plays a vital role in setting the overall atmosphere. The space changes throughout the day – soft and warm in the morning, brighter and cooler at midday, then gradually returning to warmer tones in the evening – reflecting the natural progression of desert light.
Along the way, gentle hints of colour – peach, lavender, and indigo – emerge at precisely the right moments. It’s a subtle nod to Riyadh Air’s brand palette, whilst also helping the space feel calm, intuitive, and welcoming.
Here, it’s all about providing different spaces for different vibes. Rather than a single open-plan environment, the Hafawa Lounge is composed as a sequence of interconnected rooms.
A sculptural arrival zone signals a clear transition from the terminal to the sanctuary. Once inside, Riyadh Air guests are warmly received with Saudi coffee and premium dates, a cherished tradition that honours the Kingdom’s timeless generosity.
From there, they can choose from several distinct zones in the lounge to relax and refresh.
The central Pantry is designed for informal dining and interaction. Along expansive runway-facing windows, the Balcony Café offers a more social atmosphere, where you can perk up with a freshly brewed coffee, complemented by a selection of artisanal pastries and light bites.
Meanwhile, guests can while away the hours in quieter spaces such as The Study and The Parlour, which evoke the intimacy of private living rooms, encouraging them to linger.
Social energy gathers around the Cabinet and the more intimate Cellar, conceived as layered destinations, while spa-like bathrooms, garden-facing seating areas, and private sleeping pods – designed to accommodate both individual travellers and families – offer moments for retreat and restoration.
Together, these spaces create a natural rhythm, allowing guests to move intuitively through the lounge and shape their own experience – whether social, reflective, or restorative.
The digital-first airline has swiftly ensured its premium passengers can enjoy a modern airport lounge experience.
It is, therefore, no surprise that technology and innovation are integrated throughout, including digital wayfinding, immersive media installations, and discreet, technology-enabled service touchpoints to enhance ease and flow without compromising warmth or human connection.
As Riyadh Air welcomes the world, the Hafawa Lounge is more than just a waiting area. It marks the start of passengers’ journeys. And one thing’s certain – the standard for airport elegance has just been set higher.
Images: Supplied
