Saudi Arabia is preparing to place multi-billion-dollar orders for Airbus aircraft as it looks to diversify its aviation partnerships and keep pace with the Gulf’s rapidly expanding aviation sector, according to industry sources.

The potential deals are part of a broader push to grow the kingdom’s aviation footprint. State-owned leasing firm AviLease, which recently agreed to purchase 30 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft during a high-profile visit by U.S. President Donald Trump, is now reportedly in talks to order a similar number of Airbus A320neo jets. The announcement could be made at next month’s Paris Airshow, the sources said.

AviLease, which is positioning itself among the world’s leading aircraft lessors, is also reportedly exploring the acquisition of Airbus A350 freighters as part of its fleet expansion strategy.

Meanwhile, Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, appears to favor selecting the Airbus A350 for its wide-body fleet, potentially opting against Boeing’s delayed 777X. According to sources, a deal for as many as 50 A350 aircraft, first reported by Bloomberg, is also expected to be announced at an upcoming aviation trade show.

A Riyadh Air spokesperson confirmed that the airline is still evaluating wide-body options and expects to make a decision in the coming months.

The kingdom’s interest in Airbus jets follows a series of high-profile Boeing orders. During U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent Middle East visit, AviLease signed its first binding commitment with Boeing for 20 737-8 aircraft, with options for 10 more, marking a significant milestone for the Saudi leasing firm.

Elsewhere in the region, Qatar Airways also made headlines during the same visit by finalizing what the White House described as Boeing’s largest-ever wide-body aircraft order. The Qatari carrier reaffirmed a $96 billion agreement to acquire up to 210 Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X jets, all powered by GE Aerospace engines.

As competition among Gulf carriers intensifies, Saudi Arabia’s latest moves highlight its ambitions to become a major global aviation player, strategically balancing ties with both Boeing and Airbus to support its long-term growth plans.