The hashtag #WhereAreOurPlanesReached or in Arabic طياراتنا_وين_وصلت# is being used across social media platforms in Saudi Arabia, in particular on X (formerly Twitter).
People have been sharing pictures of the decommissioned (and wingless) Saudia planes as they traverse the country; the planes are currently being transported across the country, from Jeddah to the capital city of Riyadh to be placed within the brand new Riyadh Season zone, BVLD Runway or Boulevard Runway.
Images have been captured and shared from various cities and regions of the Kingdom. What started as a simple ground transport for planes from Jeddah Airport to Riyadh Airport has turned into an interactive Riyadh Season experience that has now involved many members of the Saudi community.
Throughout this extraordinary journey, the planes passed through many cities and provinces, each of which had its unique way of receiving and celebrating the event. As the planes progressed on their journey, the excitement and interaction from the residents of these cities and provinces increased, making the event more than just plane transportation — it became an unprecedented community interaction.
The ways people welcomed the planes varied remarkably. some have greeted the planes wearing traditional clothing, embodying the deep-rooted Saudi identity, while others proudly decorated themselves and raised Saudi flags, expressing their pride and patriotism. This popular interaction wasn't just a passing celebration; it was a strong message of the Saudis' deep love for their homeland and their eagerness to participate in such unique occasions.
In a video posted on social media, His Excellency Turki Al-Sheikh mentioned that the planes were delayed by three or four days from their scheduled arrival time. He explained that the reason for this delay was the warm welcome provided by the residents of the cities and villages the planes passed through. They welcomed the crew with great generosity, offering coffee and tea to show their gratitude and appreciation for the hard work of the crew.
A Luxury Car for the Best Photo
In support of Saudi talent, GEA Chairman and Riyadh Season Director, His Excellency Turki Al-Sheikh has encouraged Saudi photographers to showcase their artistic talents by capturing the best photo or video documenting the moments when the planes passed during their journey.
Initially, the contest offered a single prize — a luxury car.
However, due to the overwhelming participation, His Excellency decided to increase the number of prizes to ten luxury cars for the best images captured by ten photographers, and shared using the nominated hashtag.
This announcement sparked great enthusiasm among participants, leading them to compete in capturing the best images and videos, hoping to win the valuable prize - and both Instagram and X have been flooded with incredible images and videos.
Planes Arriving at Boulevard Runway
After a journey lasting about ten days, covering a distance of approximately a thousand kilometres, and passing through several Saudi cities and provinces, the planes finally arrived at their final destination in Riyadh, specifically at Boulevard Runway.
This journey was full of adventure and excitement, with both citizens and residents interacting alike, turning it into an unforgettable event. The grand reception of the planes in Riyadh was the crowning moment of a historic journey that combined authentic Saudi generosity with the spirit of adventure and innovation, making it a unique experience in which people from all corners of the Kingdom participated.
Work has begun on preparing the planes for the season, where they will offer entertainment experiences, restaurants, cafes, and theatres inside the planes.
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