Riyadh Air launches three additional employment-linked scholarship programs to develop Saudi talent in aviation
Successful applicants will sign employment contracts before beginning their scholarships, with their study period counted toward professional experience under the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI).
The programs are delivered under the "Wa'ed" track of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program, in partnership with leading international academic institutions and national stakeholders, supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Riyadh Air has already launched a range of initiatives to attract, develop, and empower Saudi talent, including the Nawat Graduate Program, Nawat Cabin Crew Program, Saudi Female Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Program, and previous scholarship programs in First Officer training and Aircraft Maintenance. Together, these initiatives are strengthening the capabilities of Saudi professionals and preparing them to support the continued growth of the Kingdom’s aviation sector.

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – August 3, 2026: Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's new national carrier and a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, has announced the launch of three additional employment-linked scholarship programs under the "Wa'ed" track of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program. Delivered in collaboration with leading specialized educational institutions in the United States, the initiative reflects the airline's commitment to developing Saudi talent and preparing national capabilities in high-demand aviation disciplines that support the future of the Kingdom's aviation sector.

The programs include a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science in partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, in addition to two Associate Diploma programs in Aircraft Airframe and Powerplant Maintenance, offered in collaboration with the Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) and Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology.

Successful applicants will sign employment contracts with Riyadh Air before commencing their studies, allowing their scholarship period to be counted as professional experience registered with the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI). This reflects the airline's commitment to providing participants with a clear and sustainable career pathway from the beginning of their educational journey through to their employment.

These programs form part of Riyadh Air's focused strategy to invest in Saudi human capital by building educational and training pathways in partnership with national entities and leading global academic institutions. The initiative aims to equip and prepare highly qualified Saudi professionals for a future as leaders in the aviation industry.

Nahar Aljahani, Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Corporate Culture at Riyadh Air, said: "Investing in Saudi talent is a cornerstone of Riyadh Air's strategy to build a world-class airline powered by highly qualified Saudi professionals. The launch of these programs reflects our commitment to providing outstanding educational and career pathways that enable young Saudi men and women to acquire the expertise and skills required by the aviation sector through partnerships with globally recognized academic institutions.

We are proud to expand our offerings by introducing new programs in aircraft airframe and powerplant maintenance alongside our Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science program, continuing our efforts to develop national human capital. These initiatives build on recent milestones, including the graduation of the first cohort of Saudi female aircraft maintenance engineers. We remain committed to preparing the next generation of Saudi talent to lead the future of aviation, contribute to the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.”

The launch of these programs builds on Riyadh Air's broader portfolio of initiatives designed to attract and develop Saudi talent, including the Nawat Graduate Program, the Nawat Cabin Crew Program, the Saudi Female Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Program, and previous scholarship programs in first officer and Aircraft Maintenance. Together, these initiatives strengthen the readiness of Saudi professionals to support the continued growth of the Kingdom's aviation sector.

The programs are delivered under the "Wa'ed" track of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), and the Human Capability Development Program, reflecting a coordinated national effort to prepare a new generation of aviation specialists.

Those interested can find eligibility requirements and application details through the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program portal under the "Wa'ed" track at: https://sites.moe.gov.sa/scholarship-program/paths/path-waaid/

Riyadh Air Launches Three Employment-Linked Scholarship Programs to Develop Saudi Talent in First Officer Pilots and Aircraft Maintenance