Saudia continues to champion the goals of Vision 2030 by advancing sports tourism and fostering global cultural exchange. As part of its commitment to positioning Saudi Arabia as a vibrant and multifaceted destination, Saudia recently hosted Payal Ramesh Basude — a rising Indian football goalkeeper who has represented India internationally — for an immersive sports and cultural experience in Jeddah.
During her visit, Payal attended a thrilling Saudi Pro League (SPL) match between Al Nassr and Al Ittihad, witnessing global football icons such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema compete live. The SPL, home to 18 competitive clubs including Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, Al-Nassr, and Al-Ahli, has rapidly emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing leagues. With achievements such as Al-Hilal’s victory over Manchester City in the FIFA Club World Cup and Al-Ahli’s triumph in the 2025 AFC Champions League, Saudi Arabia is solidifying its position as a global sports powerhouse.
Beyond football, Payal explored Jeddah’s cultural and leisure landmarks, including the Historic Al-Balad district, Jeddah Corniche, Red Sea Mall, Museum of Islamic Arts, and Jeddah Yacht Club — gaining insight into the city’s rich heritage and dynamic lifestyle offerings.
As part of her Saudia-hosted journey, Payal experienced the airline’s award-winning Business Class service, featuring lie-flat seats, curated gourmet dining, and access to the luxurious Alfursan Lounge. She also toured the state-of-the-art Prince Sultan Aviation Academy, where she learned about Saudia’s pioneering aviation technology, advanced pilot training programs, and ongoing innovations shaping the future of Saudi aviation.
Saudia’s dedication to sports extends well beyond football. The airline has been a proud supporter of major international events such as Formula E, The Saudi Cup (equestrian), global boxing championships, the E-World Cup, and the Riyadh Season — an expansive sports and entertainment festival that includes world-class esports and tennis events. These initiatives align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives to diversify the economy, elevate tourism, and establish Saudi Arabia as a premier global destination for sports and entertainment.
Through such meaningful collaborations and initiatives, Saudia continues to inspire young athletes — especially women — and promote cultural dialogue across borders. As Saudi Arabia’s gateway to the world, Saudia remains committed to connecting cultures, celebrating shared passions, and advancing the future of travel through strategic partnerships in sports and beyond.
