In an unprecedented move poised to redefine the paradigms of the aviation industry, Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s emblem of aerial innovation, has officially aligned itself with the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC). This strategic alliance cements Riyadh Air’s status as a vanguard of corporate sustainability and underlines its unwavering commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set forth by the United Nations.

The announcement comes as Riyadh Air dispatches a letter of commitment to the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, signalling a robust pledge by CEO Tony Douglas to weave the Ten Principles of the UNGC into the very fabric of Riyadh Air’s operations. This bold step into sustainable and socially responsible business practices encompasses a spectrum ranging from human rights and labour to environmental stewardship and anti-corruption measures.

Riyadh Air’s embarkation on this journey is not just about adhering to principles; it’s a holistic dedication to spearheading the advancement of the 17 SDGs. Through collaborative endeavours with partners and stakeholders, Riyadh Air aspires to catalyze progress towards a sustainable future by 2030, with its maiden sustainability report slated for release before its inaugural flight in mid-2025.

CEO Tony Douglas articulates this vision with profound clarity, “At Riyadh Air, our environmental footprint is a matter of profound consideration. Our commitment transcends mere compliance, aspiring instead to lead the industry by embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations into every facet of our operations.”

Douglas further highlights the incorporation of modern Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft and GeNX 1B engines as a testament to Riyadh Air’s environmental conscientiousness. This commitment to sustainability permeates all levels of the operation, promising a holistic integration of ESG strategies that redefine industry standards.

The UNGC, a voluntary initiative launched in July 2000, serves as a beacon for companies worldwide, urging them to adopt sustainable corporate policies and practices. Riyadh Air’s engagement with the UNGC affords it access to an extensive repertoire of resources to bolster its team’s sustainability competence.

Ibrahim Alhelali, Executive Director of the UNGC, lauds Riyadh Air’s proactive approach, “Riyadh Air’s commitment to aviation sustainability is a beacon of inspiration. Their early alliance with the UNGC, a full year before commencing operations, is a testament to their dedication to responsible business practices.”

Riyadh Air is not merely an airline but a harbinger of change in the skies. Starting in 2025, it aims to redefine air travel by amalgamating sustainability with unparalleled reliability, comfort, and hospitality. As a digitally-native carrier, Riyadh Air is at the forefront of technological and innovative breakthroughs, promising an authentic and warm Saudi hospitality experience.

The airline’s inception is a cornerstone of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, contributing significantly to Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification and job creation as part of Vision 2030. With ambitions to fly to over 100 destinations, Riyadh Air is poised to bolster Saudi Arabia’s non-oil GDP growth by USD 20 billion and generate over 200,000 new jobs, locally and globally, heralding a new era of sustainable and innovative air travel.

Written by: Michelle Warner

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