A critical aspect of the Saudia Airlines Baggage Policy that often causes confusion is the distinction between allowances for domestic flights within Saudi Arabia and its neighboring countries versus international long-haul journeys. While the core principles of size and weight limits remain consistent, the free checked baggage allowance can vary significantly depending on the specific route you are flying. For most domestic routes and short-haul international flights within the Middle East and parts of Asia and Africa, the standard piece-based system generally applies. This means an Economy passenger typically receives one 23kg bag, Business Class two 32kg bags, and First Class three 32kg bags, adhering to the 158cm linear dimension limit per piece. However, the policy undergoes a notable shift for flights to and from specific long-haul destinations, most prominently the United States, Canada, Brazil, and some routes in Europe. On these specific international sectors, Saudia typically transitions to a weight-based allowance system, particularly for passengers originating travel from these countries. This means an Economy passenger flying from Jeddah to New York, for instance, would often be entitled to two pieces of checked baggage, each weighing up to 23kg (totaling 46kg), rather than just one piece. This change is designed to align with the practices common on North American carriers. Consequently, it is absolutely vital to not assume your baggage allowance is uniform across all Saudia routes. Always verify the exact allowance applicable to your specific itinerary using the official baggage calculator tool on the Saudia Airlines website before you begin packing. Failing to do so could lead to unexpected excess baggage fees at the airport, as the policy in effect is determined by your flight's origin and destination, not just your ticket class. Always check your booking confirmation or contact Saudia directly for clarification if your route is unclear.
