Flying in business class is always an exciting treat, but when everything from the service to the food is top-notch, it becomes an experience worth remembering. Our recent journey from Tunis to Jeddah aboard Saudia’s regional A330-300 in business class was just that—a memorable, comfortable, and truly enjoyable flight.
This particular A330-300 was not the fully-refitted model, but Saudia’s upcoming A330 retrofit project will bring significant changes. Nonetheless, the current configuration, while still sporting the older 2-2-2 seating arrangement, provided a solid in-flight experience. The service? Superb. The food? Delicious. Here’s a closer look at what made this flight stand out.
Boarding Experience: Warm Welcomes and Excellent Service
From the moment we stepped onto the aircraft, the service was exceptional. We were greeted by Ishaq, the cabin manager, whose warm welcome set the tone for the flight. The crew was attentive and courteous throughout the entire four-hour journey to Saudi Arabia, ensuring that passengers were comfortable and well taken care of.
Ishaq, alongside his team, made it clear that Saudia’s commitment to service excellence was a top priority. It wasn’t just about getting from one place to another—it was about ensuring passengers felt like they were in capable hands. For many travelers, this attentive service can make all the difference.
The Seat: Comfort and Practicality for Two
Saudia’s A330-300 features a 2-2-2 seat configuration in business class, which is ideal for couples or those traveling with a companion. However, for solo travellers, the middle seats might not be as desirable. While not fully lie-flat, these seats still offer a level of comfort that is hard to beat, especially considering the length of the flight.
My son and I were in a pair of seats across from each other, and the layout worked perfectly for us. The seats offer decent recline, ample space, and good privacy, with easy access to the aisle, making it a great setup for a short-haul flight like ours. While we didn’t get the fully-flat beds found on long-haul A330 flights, this configuration was still more than comfortable for a four-hour journey.
Food: A Culinary Delight in the Sky
One of the highlights of this flight was, without a doubt, the meal service. The food was simply outstanding. Unlike many other airlines, Saudia served the meals directly on the tray tables, which gives it an elevated feel compared to the typical tray service you’d expect in economy class. This small detail added a touch of sophistication that made the business class experience feel even more luxurious.
I particularly enjoyed the main course, which was bursting with flavour. The dish was well-prepared and beautifully presented, a real treat for the taste buds. And as for the sides? They were a perfect complement to the meal. The standout? The date pudding—rich, sweet, and utterly indulgent.
But what really sealed the deal for me was the coffee. As a coffee lover, I appreciate a good brew, and Saudia did not disappoint. I had a cup of single-origin Sumatra coffee, which was rich, aromatic, and wonderfully strong. It was served with a piece of chocolate, a simple but thoughtful touch. While it was meant to be brewed in a French press, I later learned it was made in one—but honestly, it didn’t matter. The result was still superb.
Saudia’s A330 Retrofit Project: What’s Next?
While this A330-300 wasn’t the fully revamped version, Saudia is preparing to embark on a major retrofit project next year. This will bring some significant changes to the aircraft’s interiors, particularly the business class cabins. The current regional seats, though comfortable, are still somewhat outdated compared to newer offerings. However, this retrofit promises to improve the overall experience, with a focus on modernising the seating and enhancing in-flight entertainment options.
In the meantime, Saudia’s A330-300 fleet still offers a solid and comfortable business class product. For those flying short-haul routes, this configuration works well. However, it will be exciting to see what the future holds as the airline revamps its fleet for long-haul passengers.
A Final Word on Saudia’s Business Class Service
As we landed in Jeddah, it was clear that Saudia’s business class experience lived up to its reputation. From the friendly service to the quality of the food and comfort of the seats, the airline has definitely earned its place among the top Middle Eastern carriers.
While the A330-300’s business class product might not be the most cutting-edge out there, the warm hospitality and excellent food made it a flight to remember. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, Saudia’s business class offers a solid option for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
