I fly regularly between Dubai and Riyadh but this was the first time on Saudi Arabian Airlines and I was apprehensive given the press they had received. However, I was pleasantly surprised as the aircraft, although a little aged, was clean, well maintained, comfortable and on time(departure and arrival). The online check-in was smooth with no issues.
Boarding was a little slow but that was more down to overly laden passengers than any fault of the cabin crew. The crew were polite and attentive even with a full meal service in a 1.5 hour flight. The economy seats were very comfortable.
The breakfast was an omelette with mushrooms and caremelised onions which was edible - just! Although I don’t know many airlines at all that can produce a righteous omelette for economy class breakfast so SV get a "pass" on that one. The economy seats were very comfortable in faux leather and the pitch was way better than EK or FZ. Went to the toilet prior to landing and all was clean, tidy and as it should be. All in all, I would certainly fly Saudi Arabian Airlines on this sector again.