Saudia Airlines Baggage Allowance: Rules & Fees

This guide explains the Saudia (formerly known as Saudi Arabian Airlines) baggage allowance for 2026, including the weight and size limits for carry-on and checked baggage, as well as the charge for excess baggage.

Saudia Airlines Baggage Allowance - At a Glance

Saudia Airlines Size and Weight Limits by Luggage Type

Saudia Airlines Baggage Allowance by Ticket Type

Saudia Airlines Excess Baggage Fees at the Airport

Overview of Saudia Airlines and Baggage Policies

Saudia Airlines, also known as Saudia Airlines, is the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia. Founded in 1945, the airline has grown to become one of the largest carriers in the Middle East. Today, Saudia serves all 28 airports across the Kingdom and has been a member of the SkyTeam alliance since 2012.

Over the years, Saudia has continued to modernise its fleet and now operates one of the youngest fleets in the Middle East. The airline offers service to more than 100 destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, and the Middle East.

Saudia Airlines offers three main cabin classes: Guest, Business, and First Class. Your baggage allowance with Saudia Airlines depends on both your fare type and cabin class.

Here are some of the most important baggage rules that you should be aware of:

• The standard carry-on baggage size for all passengers is 56 x 45 x 25 cm.

• Guest Class passengers may bring one carry-on bag weighing up to 7 kg.

• Business Class and First Class passengers may bring up to 12 kg of cabin baggage, plus one briefcase weighing up to 9 kg.

• Checked baggage must not exceed 158 cm in total dimensions (length + width + height).

• Most Guest Class fares, excluding Guest Saver, include 23 kg of checked baggage per piece.

• Business Class and First Class passengers generally receive 32 kg of checked baggage per piece.

Saudia Airlines baggage rules are, in general, clear and easy to understand. However, one should check the baggage allowance that is specified in the tickets before travelling.

Saudia typically has quite strict regulations regarding hand baggage. 

Saudia Airlines - Latest Update

23 May 2026: Charging Power Banks on Board Is No Longer Allowed

Passengers and crew members are no longer allowed to charge power banks on flights operated within Saudi Arabia, including Saudia flights.

1 September 2012: Piece-Based Baggage Allowance Introduced for International Flights

Saudia switched from a weight-based system to a piece-based system, meaning baggage allowances are determined by the number of bags allowed rather than their combined weight.

Saudia Airlines Cabin Bag Rules

Here’s what you need to know about how many cabin bags you can take on board when flying with Saudia, based on the current Saudia Airlines baggage limit.

Cabin Luggage

Passengers are allowed to bring a certain amount of hand luggage, with the allowance depending mainly on their class of service.

1. Guest Class (Economy):

• Allowance: 1 cabin bag

• Maximum weight: 7 kg (15 lbs)

• Maximum dimensions: 56 x 45 x 25 cm / 22 x 18 x 10 in

• Applies to all routes

2. Business Class and First Class:

• Allowance: 2 cabin items

• Maximum weight: 12 kg (26 lbs) for the main cabin bag, plus 9 kg (20 lbs) for one briefcase

• Maximum dimensions per item: 56 x 45 x 25 cm / 22 x 18 x 10 in

• Applies to all destinations

👜 Good to know: You can also carry certain personal items free of charge, such as a small handbag, coat, umbrella, or camera.

How to Travel With Carry-on Luggage Only (And Avoid Checking Bags)

If you want to avoid checking a bag, we recommend the CabinZero Classic 28L Backpack. It is made to help you travel light and avoid unnecessary Saudia Airlines baggage fees.

Why it works well as a carry-on bag:

• Fits under most airline seats: With dimensions of 39 x 29.5 x 20 cm (15 x 12 x 8 in), it can be used as an underseat bag on most flights.

• Not heavy at all: Weighing around 600 g, it helps you make the most of your carry-on allowance.

• Laptop-friendly: Includes a dedicated compartment that fits laptops up to 15.6 inches.

• Water-resistant: This will help your belongings stay safe during rain and spills.

• Extra peace of mind: Comes with a built-in Okoban tracking tag, which can help increase the chances of recovering your bag if it is lost.

💡 Packing tip: Use packing cubes to keep your belongings organised. They really do work wonders. 

Saudia Airlines Checked Baggage Allowance

Saudia Airlines baggage allowance is very generous when it comes to free checked luggage. In Guest Class (Economy), for instance, most travellers are allowed two pieces of luggage at no additional cost, depending on their fare and itinerary.

Guest Class:

• Guest Saver: No checked baggage included.

• Guest Basic: 1–2 pieces x 23 kg each (varies by route).

• Guest Semi Flex: 1 piece x 23 kg (domestic) or 2 pieces x 23 kg each (international).

• Guest Flex: 2 pieces x 23 kg each 

Business Class:

• Business Basic: 1–2 pieces x 32 kg each (varies by route).

• Business Semi Flex & Business Flex: 2 pieces x 32 kg each.

First Class:

• First Flex: 2 pieces x 32 kg each.

Checked Bag Size Limit:

• Maximum size: 158 cm (length + width + height).

• Applies to all fare types and cabin classes.

Excess Baggage Charges:

• Additional charges are applicable for overweight/oversized luggage.

• Online purchases will save you money in comparison with airport purchases.

How Much Does Saudia Airlines Charge for Excess Baggage?

The charges for overweight luggage under the Saudia Airlines baggage policy depend on which route you take, the weight of your luggage, and whether you pay online or at the airport.

Exceeding Saudia's baggage allowance can be costly. Photo by Pormezz on Adobe Stock

Domestic Flights Within Saudi Arabia:

• Additional checked bag (paid online in advance, up to 23 kg, within standard size): SAR 149.5 per bag.

• Additional checked bag (purchased at the airport, up to 23 kg, within standard size): SAR 184 per bag.

• Overweight baggage (weighing 23–32 kg): SAR 154 per bag.

• Oversized or heavily overweight baggage (32–45 kg or 158–205 cm): SAR 257.5 per bag.

International Flights From Saudi Arabia:

• The charges differ based on the route and whether you purchase them online or at the airport.

• For example, for overweight baggage (23–32 kg) on flights between Saudi Arabia and the United States:

• Online purchase: SAR 55 per bag.

• Airport purchase: SAR 60 per bag.

Saudia Airlines Baggage Rules for Sports Equipment and CPAP

If you are travelling with sports or medical equipment, read on for more information.

Sports Equipment

Sports gear is normally included in the checked baggage allowance of Saudia, given that it adheres to the weight and dimensions limit as per the fare category you travel in.

• Sports equipment such as golf clubs, bicycles, ski equipment, and scuba gear can be checked as baggage.

• Items should not exceed the standard baggage allowance, which is typically 23 kg or 32 kg per bag, depending on your fare.

• Maximum dimensions of checked baggage are 158 cm (sum of length, width, and height).

• Some sports gear needs proper packing. For instance, bicycles are required to be packed in an upright position, with pedals removed and tyres deflated.

• In case your sports equipment exceeds the permitted weight or size limits, excess baggage charges may apply.

Saudia Airlines’ Excess Baggage Fees for Sport Equipment

CPAP and Medical Equipment

There are no specific guidelines from Saudia for using a CPAP machine while on board. However, the airline will try its best to assist passengers who need medical or mobility assistance to travel comfortably.

If you wish to travel with a CPAP machine or any medical devices, consider the following recommendations:

• Fill out the Medical Information Form (MEDIF) and email it to meda@saudia.com.

• Submit your request at least 3 days before departure for domestic flights and 7 days before departure for international flights.

• Call Saudia at +966 12 686 8540 for additional assistance.

Medical Certificates (MEDIF) can be downloaded here.

How to Book Your Seat and Check In With Saudia Airlines

Booking a flight or checking in with Saudia is not hard at all once you know the process. 

Booking Options

1. Online (most convenient): Make a reservation on the official Saudia website (saudia.com) or via the Saudia mobile application.

The general booking procedure includes the following steps:

• Visit the Saudia booking page and enter your departure airport, destination, travel dates, and number of passengers.

• Compare the available options based on price, departure time, and journey duration. Then select the flight that best suits your travel plans and budget.

• Choose the fare type or cabin class that meets your needs, such as Guest (Economy), Business, or First Class.

• Provide the full name, contact information, and passport or ID details for all travellers exactly as shown on their travel documents.

• Personalise your booking by including additional Saudia Airlines baggage allowance, seat selection, lounge access, or special meals.

• Complete your booking with the use of a valid credit/debit card.

• Check your email for your booking reference (PNR) and e-ticket. 

Booking with Saudia is quick and easy on their website. Photo captured on Saudia.com

2. Book by phone (fees may apply): You can also book your ticket by phone by contacting Saudia's Customer Service Centre. 

• Available number: 9200 22222 (within Saudi Arabia)

• Find your nearest Saudia office for assistance here.

Check-in for Saudia Flights

1. Online or Mobile check-in (less stress and less queuing): It allows you to check in from wherever you are using the Saudia website or mobile app.

• Check-In Timeframe: Starts 48 hours before flight and closes 1 hour prior to flight for most domestic and international flights.

• Prepare your details: Have your booking reference (PNR) or e-ticket number, along with your surname, ready.

• Go to the check-in portal: Visit the Saudia online check-in page or open the Saudia mobile app.

• Enter your personal information: Input your booking reference and your last name, and choose your passenger(s).

• Select your seat: Choose your preferred seat or keep the seat assigned automatically.

• Save your boarding pass: When you finish checking in, download it to your wallet app or smartphone.

2. Checking In at the airport: If you are travelling to the USA, where online check-in may be restricted, you can use one of the following airport check-in options.

• Arrive early: Get to the airport 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight.

• Use self-service kiosks: Most big airports offer self-service kiosks where you can easily print out your boarding pass and baggage labels.

• Go to the check-in counter: Check-in counters are normally open 2-3 hours prior to departure and close 1 hour before the flight.

⚠️ Important Reminders:

• Checking bag: Even if you have checked in online, you will still need to visit the designated bag drop counter if you have checked baggage.

• Visa and passport requirements: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months and that all necessary visas are obtained.

FAQs

1. What Is 2PC Baggage Allowance in Saudia Airlines?

A 2PC baggage allowance entitles you to two individual bags that you do not need to pay extra for, provided they meet the weight and size restrictions applicable to your ticket class. It is important to note that your bag should be within the allotted weight limit. For example, if your allowance is 2 x 23 kg, each bag can weigh up to 23 kg. You cannot combine the weight of both bags into one heavier suitcase.

2. How Much Baggage Is Allowed in Saudia Airlines?

Your luggage allowance will vary depending on your ticket type and cabin class.

Cabin luggage:

• Guest Class (Economy): 1 cabin piece not exceeding 7 kg, plus one personal item

• Business Class/First Class: 1 cabin piece not exceeding 12 kg, plus a briefcase weighing 9 kg.

Check-in luggage:

• Guest Class (Economy): Normally 1-2 check-in pieces, each not exceeding 23 kg.

• Business Class: Up to 2 check-in pieces, each not exceeding 32 kg.

• First Class: Up to 2 check-in pieces, each not exceeding 32 kg.

• Size limitation: 158 cm in total (length + width + height) for each check-in piece.

3. Can I Take a Handbag and Hand Luggage on Saudi Airlines?

Yes. Apart from your allocated cabin luggage allowance, you may also carry certain personal items onboard, including: a handbag or purse, a laptop bag, a coat or jacket, a baby stroller or infant carry cot, and mobility and/or medical devices needed by disabled passengers.

4. What Is Not Allowed in Saudi Airlines Baggage?

Saudi Airlines does not allow a range of dangerous, restricted, and culturally sensitive items on its flights. The list of prohibited items includes: alcohol, illegal drugs and narcotics, firearms and weapons, hoverboards and electric skateboards (due to the risk of batteries), pork and pork-based products. There may also be additional rules regarding prohibited items imposed by Saudi Arabia itself.

Enjoy Your Flight with Saudia

Understanding the Saudia Airlines baggage allowance can help you avoid unexpected fees and pack with confidence. In general, Business Class and First Class passengers enjoy more generous baggage allowances than those travelling in Guest Class. As baggage allowances can vary by fare type, it is a good idea to check the details on your ticket before your flight. If you want to travel light and avoid unnecessary baggage fees, CabinZero backpacks and bags are designed to fit the cabin baggage requirements of many airlines, including Saudia.

Quyen Pham