Saudia Highlights Sports Tourism with Indian Football Talent at Saudi Pro League Match

Strengthening sports links between Saudi Arabia and India

Saudia, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, continued its engagement with sports tourism and cultural exchange as part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. In November 2025 in Jeddah, the airline hosted Indian footballer Payal Ramesh Basude, who has represented India internationally as a goalkeeper. Basude attended a Saudi Pro League match between Al Nassr and Al Ittihad and observed Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema competing.

The visit included stops at several locations in Jeddah, including the Historic Al-Balad district, Jeddah Corniche, Red Sea Mall, Museum of Islamic Arts and the Jeddah Yacht Club. Saudia also highlighted the scale and growth of the Saudi Pro League, which currently features 18 clubs, including Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, Al-Nassr, and Al-Ahli. With results including Al-Hilal’s victory over Manchester City in the FIFA Club World Cup and Al-Ahli’s win at the 2025 AFC Champions League, Saudi Arabia continues to build its profile in global football.

Basude travelled on Saudia’s Business Class and observed the airline’s in-flight services, seating and the Alfursan Lounge. She also visited Saudia’s Prince Sultan Aviation Academy, where she was briefed on training programmes, aviation procedures and the airline’s areas of technological focus.

Saudia has been involved in several sporting activities beyond football, including Formula E, The Saudi Cup, major boxing events, E-World Cup and Riyadh Season, which hosts multiple sports and entertainment events such as esports and tennis. The airline’s participation in these events supports the aims of Vision 2030, which include economic diversification, tourism development and strengthening Saudi Arabia’s position as a sporting and entertainment destination.

Through initiatives of this nature, Saudia aims to contribute to sports tourism, build cultural connections and encourage young athletes, including women, to explore wider opportunities in sport. The airline stated that it will continue to support programmes that connect travellers, expand access to sporting experiences and align with its broader strategy for international engagement.