Mastercard and Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, have established a strategic alliance to build a digitally-native financial and payment ecosystem. The partnership integrates technology and travel services to modernize the passenger experience.
The collaboration includes the 2026 launch of Riyadh Air-branded Mastercard credit and prepaid cards for Saudi residents. Managed via the airline’s mobile app, these digital-first cards enable users to earn flights, upgrades, and loyalty rewards.
The agreement features a global first: an airline-branded virtual card program specifically for travel agents and B2B transactions. Additionally, both companies will establish a center of excellence to develop and scale new payment and travel technologies.
This initiative positions both firms as leaders in travel technology within a major global hub. Initial reports indicate no immediate market reaction or stock price movement following the announcement.