On Thursday, Saudia Arabian Airlines (Saudia) celebrated their first flight to the seasonal international “Winter Tantura 2019” festival in the Kingdom’s ancient city of Al Ula. This is the festival's first anniversary, as it was founded on December 20, 2018.
Earlier this week, Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) in their strategic partnership with the International “Winter Tantura” Festival launched their first flight to the Kingdom’s ancient city of Al Ula for the second annual festival, “Winter Tantura 2019.” Saudia’s new service to Al Ula coincided with the start of the annual festival which opened on December 19, 2019 and will continue until March 7, 2020. On Thursday morning, Saudia’s inaugural flight (SV8000) departed King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and upon arrival at Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz Airport southeast of Al Ula was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute.
The inaugural flight was celebrated at both airports with festival banners and special gift bags and the aircraft seats were decorated with the festival logo. The VIP guests were also treated to a special crew announcement celebrating the opening of the first flight to the annual festival. As part of Saudia’s partnership with the festival, the airline will operate five weekly flights from Riyadh, as well as two weekly flights from Jeddah during the duration of the festival.
The annual festival opens the opportunity for people inside the Kingdom and around the world to discover the artistic and cultural treasures of Al Ula. Integrated “Saudi Holidays” to Al Ula are available in three categories (Gold, Platinum and Diamond) which may include airfare, hotel, transportation and a tour of archeological sites, depending on the package level selected.
Saudia’s partnership with the Royal Commission for the Governorate of Al Ula includes the provision of flights throughout the duration of the “Winter Tantura 2019.” This is part of the Kingdom’s National Transformation Program for 2020 and the vision of the Kingdom 2030 initiative, which includes the development of culture, tourism and entertainment.
The slogan for the “Winter Tantura 2019” Festival is “A Journey Through Time in an Immortal Historical Location.” Visitors will enjoy the culture and heritage of Al Ula, as well as unique events and experiences from great musical performances to flying in hot air balloons, to taking flights in classic aircraft. Additionally, during the festival the second largest endurance horse race in the world will take place. The festival also promises amazing culinary experiences for even the most discerning palates provided by internationally acclaimed chefs. Music lovers will also enjoy concerts by the world’s most celebrated and award-winning musicians.
Source: Saudi Arabian Airlines