Emirates launches first World store in GCC outside Dubai
New Riyadh store offers interactive travel planning and signature products
DUBAI/RIYADH – Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has opened its latest Emirates World retail store in Riyadh, unveiling an immersive, experience-led travel concept for customers in the Kingdom.
Situated in the heart of the Saudi capital, the new 288m² store welcomes travellers into a lounge-inspired space designed for comfort and convenience. Visitors can plan their journeys, seek expert travel advice, and explore Emirates’ products through interactive displays that blend technology with hospitality.
The launch marks a milestone for Emirates as the first Emirates World store in the GCC outside Dubai, reflecting the airline’s forward-looking retail vision. It also becomes the ninth store of its kind worldwide, signalling a new era in airline customer engagement.
The inauguration was led by Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, alongside Sheikh Majid Al Mualla, Divisional Senior Vice President of International Affairs; and Adil Al Ghaith, Senior Vice President Commercial Operations, Centre. Also present were Matar Salem Al Dhaheri, UAE Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Ali Rajab, Executive Vice President of Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), joined by trade partners and government officials.
Adnan Kazim remarked, “Saudi Arabia is one of Emirates’ most important markets, and Emirates World in Riyadh reflects our commitment to the Kingdom. This flagship store transforms how customers experience our brand, offering personalised service, a seamless booking process, and travel solutions designed around their needs.”
What’s inside Emirates World retail store?
The Emirates World concept reimagines airline retailing by merging personalised service with smart, interactive technology. Inside the Riyadh store, guests can explore Emirates’ iconic onboard features, including a life-size display of the A380 Onboard Lounge and the First-Class suite.
Customers can receive one-on-one assistance from travel consultants trained across all Emirates services – from airline ticketing and Emirates Holidays to Skywards loyalty support – creating a true one-stop shop for travel needs.
Adding to the innovation, the store includes digital touchpoints such as a “selfie mirror” for capturing moments against destination backdrops and self-service kiosks that simplify booking and check-in.
These elements are designed to make the travel planning process faster, smoother, and more engaging.
How is Emirates expanding in Saudi Arabia?
Emirates has been serving Saudi Arabia for over three decades and now operates 74 weekly flights between Dubai and the Kingdom’s four gateways – Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Medina – connecting passengers to more than 150 destinations via Dubai.
The airline continues to invest heavily in its Saudi operations, deploying its newest aircraft such as the Airbus A350, the flagship A380, and retrofitted Boeing 777s on select routes.
In 2023, Emirates expanded its premium offerings by opening a dedicated lounge in Jeddah and launching Chauffeur-Drive Service in Riyadh, the first regional cities to host these exclusive services.
The Riyadh store reinforces Emirates’ commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by boosting tourism, trade, and business connectivity between the two nations.