Saudia, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, has been recognised as the most punctual airline in the world for June 2025, outperforming major global carriers in both arrivals and departures. According to industry data compiled last month, the airline demonstrated remarkable consistency in its flight timings, placing it at the top of international rankings.
Alongside Saudia’s success, flyadeal, the group’s low-cost subsidiary, claimed first place in the Middle East and Africa region for on-time performance. The results reflect a focused approach to operational reliability across the group, especially during a high-demand summer travel period.
This recognition places both airlines in a strong position as they continue expanding across regional and international markets.
Strong international growth and reliability
In addition to topping punctuality charts, Saudia carried over five million international guests in June alone. This passenger volume, combined with its ranking, shows not only strong demand but also the airline’s ability to manage increased capacity while maintaining efficiency.
The operational milestone is particularly notable as airlines across the globe continue to adjust to post-pandemic travel patterns, staff shortages, and airport constraints. Saudia’s ability to keep its schedule intact during such a time signals a renewed strength in its global operations.
For many travellers based in the UAE—especially those regularly flying to Riyadh, Jeddah or for Hajj and Umrah—this consistency in performance makes Saudia an increasingly dependable option.
flyadeal leads in regional punctuality
flyadeal, which operates as Saudia’s budget airline, earned its top regional ranking by maintaining an excellent record of on-time arrivals and departures. With a growing network and modern fleet, it continues to attract travellers across the Gulf looking for both affordable fares and time efficiency.
Low-cost airlines in the region have traditionally faced operational challenges due to tight turnaround times and high aircraft utilisation. flyadeal’s ranking signals a shift in that perception, positioning the carrier as one of the region’s most efficient budget operators.
Its consistent schedule performance is also becoming a key factor for price-sensitive travellers from Dubai and Abu Dhabi who prioritise reliability in short-haul regional routes.
Impact for UAE-based travellers
For residents in the UAE, particularly frequent business flyers and families planning trips to Saudi Arabia, these rankings offer meaningful insight when choosing an airline. Regular travel between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and key Saudi cities has become more common, and punctuality now plays a bigger role in decision-making than ever before.
With airspace becoming increasingly congested across the Gulf, airlines that manage to run tight schedules stand out. The strong performance by Saudia and flyadeal also suggests that regional carriers are raising the bar for punctuality—an area long dominated by larger international players.
As competition among GCC airlines intensifies, UAE travellers can benefit from more reliable flight options without compromising on cost or convenience.
Pushing the boundaries of operational performance
The latest recognition is more than just a win for Saudi aviation—it highlights the results of long-term investments in infrastructure, fleet upgrades, and process optimisation.
Saudia has been actively modernising its operations under a broader transformation plan that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s aviation ambitions. With newer aircraft, digital enhancements, and route expansions, the airline is steadily moving toward becoming a more prominent international player.
flyadeal, with its agile approach and increasing market share, continues to expand within the low-cost segment. Its success in punctuality rankings shows that even within cost-conscious business models, maintaining high operational standards is achievable.
Saudia’s rise to the top of global punctuality rankings—paired with flyadeal’s regional leadership—marks a significant moment for aviation in the Gulf. For travellers in the UAE, particularly those looking for efficient, on-time travel between major cities in the region, these rankings are more than just industry accolades. They reflect improved travel experiences, fewer delays, and greater confidence in flight planning.
With summer travel in full swing and passenger volumes expected to remain strong in the coming months, all eyes are now on how these carriers maintain their momentum through the rest of the year.
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