The national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia (SAUDIA) and The University of Prince Mugrin, celebrated the graduation ceremony of the first class of graduates from their joint ‘In-Flight Chef Program’. The event was attended by His Excellency the President of The University of Prince Mugrin, Dr. Bandar Hajjar, and His Excellency the Director General of SAUDIA Group, Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar.
The program provided trainees with intensive theoretical and practical training in the field, including on board service procedures, aviation safety standards, and knowledge and skills of the Saudi culinary and hospitality industry.
Mr. Ahmed Babtain, Vice President of Human Resources at SAUDIA, said: “The aviation industry is witnessing intense competition and providing quality service onboard while maintaining the highest level of standards has become a key point of differentiation. The ‘In-Flight Chef Program’ provides a competitive edge by delivering an exceptional guest experience.”
Razan Yousef, an in-flight Chef at SAUDIA, said: “I’m proud to have been part of the ‘In-Flight Chef Program’ that has enabled me and my colleagues to deliver high-quality cuisine in the sky. I am passionate about offering exceptional dishes that not only reflect our rich culture but also reflect SAUDIA’s excellence in hospitality and quality of service.
A total of thirty-five Chefs have graduated from the ‘In-Flight Chef Program’ in 2022. SAUDIA now employees 185 in-flight Chefs which has increased the percentage of Saudi nationals in that position from 3% to 22%. The national flag carrier connects four continents with more than 100 destinations globally and operates one of the world’s youngest fleets. Its 142 aircraft comprise a mix of modern Airbus and Boeing narrow- and wide-body jets.
