The Middle East’s leading airlines Qatar Airways, newcomer Riyadh Air, and Emirates are intensifying their rivalry, each unveiling new business class offerings aimed at redefining luxury air travel.
Qatar Airways: Elevating the Qsuite
Qatar Airways will introduce the ‘Qsuite Next Gen’, an evolution of its acclaimed business class product. This latest iteration features fully customizable Quad Suites, allowing groups of four to create a shared space, and Companion Suites for pairs seeking privacy. Enhancements include taller privacy dividers, increased dining space, and 4K OLED screens that can be repositioned between seats. A new ‘Make My Bed’ button streamlines the transition to rest mode, emphasizing passenger comfort and personalization.
Riyadh Air: Technology-Driven Luxury
Saudi Arabia’s newcomer, Riyadh Air, is making a bold entrance with its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner cabins. Embracing a digital-first approach, the airline offers 32-inch 4K OLED screens in business class and integrated Devialet headrest speakers for an immersive, headphone-free audio experience. The cabin design reflects Saudi heritage, combining elegant materials with advanced technology to deliver a seamless and modern travel experience.
Emirates: Incremental upgrades amidst stiff competition
Emirates, traditionally known for its opulent cabins, has unveiled updates to its business class on the Boeing 777 and the new Airbus A350. The 777 now features a 1-2-1 seating configuration, offering direct aisle access, 23-inch HD screens, and personal minibars. The A350 introduces ‘S Lounge’ seats inspired by the Mercedes S-Class, equipped with wireless charging and 20-inch 4K screens. However, these enhancements have been met with criticism for lacking the privacy features, such as sliding doors, that competitors like Qatar Airways and Riyadh Air offer.
