Saudi Arabian Airlines Baggage Fees 2023: What To Expect
With a fleet size of more than 180 aircraft and service to nearly 90 destinations worldwide, Saudi Arabian Airlines is the national airline of Saudi Arabia and is known for its affordable fares. If you’ll be flying out of King Fahd International Airport, King Khalid International Airport, or any other major airports in Saudi Arabia, there’s a good chance you’ll be flying with Saudi Arabian Airlines (also commonly referred to as Saudia). If you want to compare baggage fee rates with another major national airline, check out the Qantas Airways baggage fees.
Before you fly, take time to familiarize yourself with the airline’s rules and guidelines—including their specific policies for baggage. Because Saudi Arabian Airlines is such a large airline with services to many international destinations, their baggage allowances and fees can vary quite a bit depending on your route as well as your fare. By researching these policies and fees as they apply specifically to your flight, you can better pack and prepare for your upcoming trip and potentially avoid paying additional baggage fees in the process.
Saudi Arabian Airlines Checked and Carry-On Allowances
While Saudi Arabian Airlines’ checked and carry-on allowances are relatively consistent with many other major airlines across the globe, they can be confusing due to the many different routes and fare types offered. Below are some general guidelines on the typical checked and carry-on allowances for Saudi Arabian Airlines flights, but for the most accurate information, be sure to visit the Saudia website and check out their helpful baggage allowance charts. You can also contact the airline directly with your flight information for specific information on your checked and carry-on allowances.
Checked Bag Allowances and Fees
As with many other large/international airlines, Saudi Arabian Airlines’ checked bag allowances and fees vary based on fare type and route. For domestic flights within Saudi Arabia, Guest Class fares will typically include one checked bag, whereas First and Business Class fares generally include two checked bags. The weight limits for checked bags on domestic flights are generally 55 pounds (25kg) per bag.
For international flights, checked bag allowances can vary but will include at least one checked bag weighing up to 70 pounds (32kg) for Guest Class passengers. For longer flights, Guess Class fares may include up to two checked bags. First and Business Class fares on international flights typically include two checked bags weighing up to 70 pounds (32kg) each.
One exception to checked baggage inclusions on Saudi Arabian Airlines is the Economy Saver fare, which is available on some domestic flights. Be aware that this fare does not include any free checked baggage, so you will need to pay out-of-pocket if you need to check any luggage with this fare.
Carry-On Allowances and Fees
Carry-on allowances for Saudi Arabian Airlines can also vary based on fare and destination. All Guest Class fares are permitted one standard carry-on bag weighing no more than 15 pounds (7kg) and measuring no greater than 22″ x 18″ x 10″ (56cm x 45cm x 25cm). First and Business Class passengers are permitted one carry-on bag with the same size/weight allowances, in addition to a briefcase. Briefcases should not exceed measurements of 18″ x 8″ x 14″ (45cm x 20cm x 35cm).
Be aware that passengers traveling from North America to Saudi Arabia have a restriction of one carry-on bag, regardless of fare. These bags should not exceed 16 pounds (7kg) or 45 linear inches (114cm).
In addition to included carry-on allowances, ticketed passengers on Saudi Arabian Airlines are also permitted some small personal items, including coats, pocketbooks, and reading material on each flight. All carry-ons should be able to be stowed in an overhead compartment or underneath the seat in front of you (depending on the aircraft) during flight. If any of your carry-ons exceed posted size or weight limits, you will be required to check your baggage and pay any applicable fees. If you have any questions about carry-on allowances based on your fare and route, contact the airline directly for clarification.
Are you getting stopped at the gate with your bag? Get CHESTER luggage. Find the perfect carry-on and checked luggage for all airlines.
What About Infants, Strollers, and Baby Gear?
If you’ll be traveling with a lap infant under the age of two, you may be entitled to additional carry-on allowances. For most Saudi Arabian Airlines flights, this includes a diaper bag, infant carrier, and collapsible stroller. Strollers and baby seats can also be checked at the check-in counter or gate free-of-charge, if you prefer. These items can be returned to you following your flight’s landing.
Charges For Additional Bags and Overweight Luggage
For most domestic flights, checked bags should not weigh more than 55 pounds (25kg). On international flights, checked bag weight allowances tend to be higher at 70 pounds (32kg) per bag. If you have an overweight bag, fees can vary depending on whether you’re taking a domestic or international flight. Most domestic overweight bag fees are around $27, though fees for an international flight can vary between $60 and $100 (depending on how overweight your bag is). Keep in mind that these are one-way fees.
Checked bags on Saudi Arabian Airlines flights should not exceed 81 linear inches (205cm). This should include any wheels, handles, or other accessories and is pretty standard across the industry. Oversized bags will be assessed a flat $100 fee each way, so be sure to measure and weigh your bags ahead of time. Also, make sure to pack according to TSA rules so your luggage does not get left at the airport.
If you need to add checked bags beyond what’s included with your fare, fees can vary widely depending on your fare type and route. For most domestic flights, you can expect a flat fee to add baggage, whereas costs can fluctuate for international flights. Check with the airline to see how much it will cost to add a bag for your fare and route. In most cases, it’ll be cheaper to pay for your excess baggage prior to your flight, so don’t delay.
Saving On Saudi Arabian Airlines Baggage Fees (Or Avoiding Them Altogether)
There are a few tips to consider if you’re looking to save money on Saudi Arabian Airlines baggage fees.
Seek a Credit Card Account Credit
Participating credit cards may offer baggage fee reimbursement, so check with your credit card company before you fly. Typically, you can use your credit card to pay for eligible baggage fees and then submit a request for account credit/reimbursement after your trip.
Become a Saudia Alfursan or SkyTeam Member
If you plan on flying regularly with Saudi Arabian Airlines, check out their frequent flyer program. Known as Saudia Alfursan, this program allows you to earn points for each mile you fly and redeem them for perks, including additional baggage. For example, Gold and Silver members are permitted one additional checked bag on international flights.
Saudi Arabia Airlines also participates in the SkyTeam alliance, so if you’re a member, you may be eligible for additional baggage allowances and some additional airline miles for certain routes.
Pay for Additional Baggage Before Your Flight
If you know you need to check additional bags beyond what’s included with your fare, paying for them ahead of time can save you some money. Excess baggage will always cost more at the airport when you fly with Saudi Arabian Airlines.
Limit Baggage to Included or Carry-On Allowances
If you have a fare that includes checked baggage (which is the case for most fares on Saudi Arabian Airlines), try limiting with you pack to your included luggage. This may be easier to do if you’re taking a relatively short trip. Even if you’ve booked a fare that doesn’t include any checked baggage, you may be able to avoid paying baggage fees with Saudi Arabian Airlines by limiting what you pack to your carry-on items.
Saudi Arabian Airlines Baggage Policies: Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions we receive about Saudi Arabian Airlines baggage policies and fees.
Do all fares with Saudi Arabian Airlines include checked bags?
Most fares include at least one checked bag, but domestic Economy Saver fares do not include any free checked luggage. Weight restrictions on checked baggage can also vary by fare.
How can I find out how many checked bags are included with my fare?
The best way to find out how much checked baggage is included with your fare is to check the Saudi Arabian Airlines website or contact them directly. Because baggage allowances vary greatly based on route and fare type, this is the most accurate way to know for sure before you travel.
How can I pay for my baggage before my flight?
You can pay for your baggage before your flight online by logging in with your flight information; this can be a great way to save time at the airport. If you’re adding excess baggage, you can also save money by paying online as opposed to waiting until you arrive at the airport. Another option for paying for your baggage before your flight is to call the airline directly and pay over the phone.
What are Saudi Arabian Airlines’ carry-on allowances?
Carry-on allowances can vary based on fare, but most Guest Class fares include one standard carry-on plus personal items. First and Business Class fares generally include an additional carry-on bag.
