Boulevard Runway

 

Riyadh Season, Saudi Arabia’s premier entertainment event, has once again outdone itself with the introduction of the innovative Boulevard Runway zone. This extraordinary attraction, which opened its doors to the public on December 17, 2024, offers visitors a one-of-a-kind blend of aviation and entertainment, transforming retired aircraft into immersive spaces for exploration, dining, and interactive experiences.

 

The Concept

At the heart of Boulevard Runway are three repurposed Boeing 777 aircraft, formerly part of the Saudia Airlines fleet. These massive planes have been given a new lease on life, reimagined as venues for entertainment, shopping, dining, and interactive activities. The zone spans an impressive 140,000 square meters, creating a unique environment that mimics an airport runway and brings the excitement of air travel to solid ground.

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The Journey

The creation of Boulevard Runway was a feat of engineering and logistics. In a remarkable 12-day journey, the aircraft were transported overland from Jeddah to Riyadh, captivating audiences nationwide. Each city along the route hosted celebratory events, turning the transportation into a spectacle that generated significant buzz on social media and garnered extensive media coverage.

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Attractions and Experiences

Terminal X

One of the main attractions within Boulevard Runway is “Terminal X,” a hub of excitement and adventure. Here, visitors can enjoy ten diverse experiences that combine aerial adventures with vibrant settings. The zone is designed to be an ideal entertainment hub, offering a mix of interactive activities and fun-filled moments for all ages.

 

Aircraft Exploration

Guests have the unique opportunity to walk inside the repurposed Boeing 777 aircraft, discovering their transformed interiors and enjoying an authentic runway experience that immerses them in the atmosphere of real airports. This hands-on exploration allows visitors to see these magnificent machines from a completely new perspective.

 

Culinary Experiences

Boulevard Runway offers a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences:

1. The Control Tower: Visitors can savour the famous Mike Majlak burger, known for its distinctive flavour.
2. Uncle Hussein Airplane: For fans of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, this aircraft offers a unique dining experience featuring dishes that embody the essence of the region’s culinary traditions.

 

Thrill Rides and Interactive Experiences

For those seeking excitement, Boulevard Runway doesn’t disappoint:

1. Lost Boeing 777: This horror-themed experience transforms a plane into a haunted setting, complete with moving ghosts, live music, terrifying effects, and rocking chairs. The backstory involves a plane crash in the Bermuda Triangle, adding to the eerie atmosphere.
2. Sky War: Teams can participate in a mission to rescue a hijacked plane and save hostages before time runs out, providing an adrenaline-pumping interactive experience.

 

Shopping and Entertainment

The zone features 13 retail outlets, offering visitors a chance to shop for unique aviation-themed merchandise and souvenirs. Additionally, 13 interactive attractions ensure that there’s always something engaging for visitors of all ages.

 

Operational Details

Boulevard Runway is open to the public from 4 p.m. to midnight, allowing visitors to enjoy the attractions during the cooler evening hours. The zone is set to operate for two months, giving ample time for locals and tourists alike to experience this unique attraction.

 

The Team Behind the Magic

The success of Boulevard Runway is a testament to the collaboration between various entities:

1. Saudia Group: As a platinum and official airline partner of Riyadh Season 2024, Saudia Group played a crucial role in bringing this concept to life.
2. Saudia Technic: This subsidiary of Saudia Group showcased its expertise in the intricate process of dismantling, transporting, and reassembling the aircraft.
3. Saudia Ground Services (SGS): SGS enhanced visitor experiences within the zone by offering streamlined travel procedures through a specialised platform and displaying aircraft stairs for a more immersive experience.

 

A Nod to Aviation History

Adding a personal touch to the experience, former flight attendants share captivating stories from the aircraft’s 19-year operational history. These anecdotes include details such as the number of flights, total flight hours, destinations served, and memorable moments from the planes’ journeys, providing visitors with a sense of the rich history behind these repurposed aircraft.

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Part of a Larger Vision

Boulevard Runway is not just an isolated attraction; it’s an integral part of the larger Riyadh Season event. This season has seen exceptional growth and transformation, becoming one of the most anticipated entertainment events in the region. The collaboration between Saudia Group and Riyadh Season aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the country’s economy and enhance its cultural and entertainment offerings.

 

Visitor Reception

Since its opening, Boulevard Runway has been captivating visitors with its unique blend of aviation and entertainment. The zone has contributed to the overall success of Riyadh Season, which had already attracted 10 million visitors as of early December 2024. The innovative concept has been praised for its ability to offer an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional theme park attractions.

As Boulevard Runway continues to operate until February 15, 2025, it’s expected to draw even more visitors and potentially inspire similar aviation-themed attractions in the future. The success of this zone demonstrates the potential for repurposing retired aircraft and creating unique entertainment experiences that capitalise on the public’s fascination with aviation.

Boulevard Runway represents a bold step in experiential entertainment, blending the worlds of aviation and leisure in a way that’s never been seen before. As part of Riyadh Season, it showcases Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation in the entertainment sector and its ability to create world-class attractions. For anyone visiting Riyadh during this period, Boulevard Runway offers a truly unique experience that shouldn’t be missed – a chance to explore the magic of flight without ever leaving the ground.