Saudi Arabia’s low-cost carrier flyadeal, has introduced cabin crew as certified tour guides in a novel regional initiative.

The first batch of 10 male and female crew completed comprehensive training in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia enabling them to serve as cultural ambassadors promoting the Kingdom to international visitors.

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As endorsed tour guide licence holders, they will be able to provide visitors with guided trips to cultural and historical sites in Saudi Arabia in a private capacity. Specifically designed for Saudi nationals, the course is being run by a training institute accredited by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Tourism.

Announced at the inaugural TOURISE Summit in Riyadh, the initiative is the first of its kind aimed at cabin crew.

Steven Greenway, flyadeal Chief Executive Officer, said: “This programme demonstrates flyadeal’s continued efforts to support the Kingdom’s drive to build a dynamic tourism industry.

“As flying ambassadors, who better than our Saudi crew to serve as frontline cultural representatives to promote their own country and share both knowledge and insights when interacting with passengers from around the world.”

Saudi Arabia is looking to welcome 150 million domestic and international visitors by 2030 as part of the nation’s economic diversification strategy, with tourism infrastructure scaling up across the country.