Find Out: 2023 Saudi Aviation Sector Harvest, Achievements

Farah El Akkad January 1, 2024

0 4 minutes read

The Saudi aviation sector contributes to about 45% of the Gross Domestic Product. It is one of the main economic sectors in Saudi’s economy. The number of airports in KSA is 28, including 15 international airports. The number of passengers through airports in 2022 was about 90 million passengers, an increase of 20% compared to 2021.

Firstly, the Kingdom holds a leading position in developing and enhancing the air transport industry. KSA aims to achieve the highest levels of safety and security. It also aims to keep up with the rapid developments in this industry.

Hence, the Ministry of Transport and Logistics is working to develop the infrastructure of various airports.
At the same time, this comes in line with the targets of the Kingdom’s Vision 2023 and the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics. The strategy also aims to increase the Kingdom’s air connectivity range from 99 destinations to more than 250 destinations through 29 airports. This will triple the annual passenger movement to 330 million passengers. It will also establish two global hubs for international air connectivity.

Currently, the Kingdom is working to develop the level of air services at all airports, with Saudia focusing on transforming King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah into a global hub for air services, in addition to increasing the number of aircraft.
The Kingdom is also keen to be present and work with relevant international entities, coordinating and offering Saudi expertise in civil aviation fields. This includes safety, air navigation, and civil aviation security.

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The Saudi Aviation sector policy

In addition, the General Authority of Civil Aviation launched a new economic policy for the “aviation sector” in the Kingdom earlier, targeting attracting investments worth $100 billion from the public and private sectors by 2030.

On the other hand, the new economic policy includes three economic regulations for airports, ground services and air transport services.

This policy and the new regulations also provide a competitive environment offering equal opportunities for current operators and future investors.

Additionally, the new economic policy aims to transform the Kingdom into a global destination for transport and cargo services. It also aims to provide an infrastructure conducive to competition and attractive to foreign investment as well as to achieve growth and enabling innovation in this promising sector. It expects to lead to increased investments in KSA’s aviation sector, contributing to economic growth and social development.

The new economic policy represents an important step in the development of the sector. It also reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to transforming the aviation sector into one of the main economic sectors of KSA.

Saudi Aviation Sector 2023 New Airport plans

During 2023, the Kingdom worked on launching plans for new airports, including:

• King Salman Airport Master Plan

Meanwhile, the announcement of the master plan for King Salman International Airport, was announced by Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince of Saudi. It aims to transform Riyadh into a gateway to the world and a global destination for transport, trade and tourism. Also, present the Kingdom acts as a bridge connecting East and West.

According to the Saudi Press Agency “SPA”, the new airport will support the Kingdom’s plans to make Riyadh one of the top ten city economies in the world and to keep pace with the continuous population growth in Riyadh, which aims to reach between 15 and 20 million people by 2030.

Besides, King Salman Airport will be one of the largest airports in the world, covering an area of approximately 57 km², including the current terminals under the name of King Khalid terminals, and 6 runways, in addition to 12 km² of supporting facilities, residential assets, recreational, commercial shops, and various logistical facilities.

Conversely, the airport will work to increase the capacity to 120 million passengers by 2030. It also aims to reach 185 million passengers, and handle up to 3.5 million tons of cargo by 2050.

Accordingly, the residential and commercial facilities will be implemented according to the best innovative standards, with designs reflecting Saudi culture. This also provides a unique travel experience with smooth and efficient services for visitors and passengers.

Additionally, King Salman International Airport prioritizes sustainability, aiming to obtain the LEED Platinum certification for environmentally friendly projects, and will be powered by renewable energy resources.

Moreover, the announcement of the master plan for King Salman International Airport aligns with the Public Investment Fund’s strategy. The strategy focuses on unlocking the potential of promising sectors and local infrastructure development. This is in line with the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics and the National Initiative for Global Supply Chains. It also supports the Kingdom’s efforts in diversifying economy.

New Abha International Airport:

Announced by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, this new airport will feature an architectural design consistent with the heritage of the Asir region. This makes a prominent landmark in KSA. It will have a terminal area of 65,000 square meters, significantly larger than the current 10,500 square meters. The airport also incorporates boarding bridges, and new platforms. It is expected to complete its first phase by 2028. The new airport will also have a timeless architectural design with advanced technologies. Correspondingly, it aims to accommodate over 13 million passengers annually. This is a tenfold increase from its current capacity. It will operate over 90,000 flights yearly. This development is also part of Saudi’s 2030 Vision.

Establishment of Riyadh Air:

It is worthy to mention that the Public Investment Fund, chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, founded “Riyadh Air” this year. As the new national carrier, it aims to develop the aviation sector and enhance Saudi Arabia’s strategic position linking Asia, Africa, and Europe. The airline, headquartered in Riyadh, plans to apply sustainable and safety practices in aviation, leveraging the latest digital technologies. Managed by a team of local and international experts, Riyadh Air aims to launch flights to over 100 destinations by 2030. It also offers exceptional service levels with authentic Saudi hospitality. It expects to open new opportunities for tourists worldwide. Equally, it will contribute to Saudi’s non-oil GDP and create over 200,000 jobs. Riyadh Air and King Salman International Airport are among the latest investments by the Public Investment Fund in the aviation sector.

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