Saudi Arabia’s King Fahd International Airport in Dammam has soared to new heights, welcoming a record-breaking 12 million passengers between January and mid-December 2024. This impressive figure represents a 15% surge compared to the same period in 2023, highlighting the airport’s expanding role in Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector. The airport also recorded over 99,000 flights during this period, reflecting a 5 percent rise in operations.
On June 13, 2024, King Fahd Airport reached its highest daily air traffic volume, with 374 flights conducted in one day. Additionally, daily passenger numbers surpassed 50,000 for the first time, emphasizing its increasing significance in regional and international connectivity.
National Trends in Saudi Aviation
Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector saw a 17 percent annual increase in passenger numbers during the first half of 2024, reaching 62 million. The number of flights rose by 12 percent, totaling 446,000, while air freight traffic grew by 41 percent, reaching 606,000 tons. These developments align with the Kingdom’s National Aviation Strategy, which aims to triple annual passenger numbers to 330 million by 2030.
The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) launched numerous projects to enhance the country’s aviation infrastructure in 2024. These included expanding Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport and opening new international terminals at Al-Ahsa and Taif airports. GACA also introduced innovations like self-driving air taxis during the Hajj season and drone-assisted building cleaning permits.
Recognition for Saudi Airports and Airlines
Saudi airports have achieved global recognition, with 16 airports receiving Airports Council International Airport Service Quality accreditation for 2024. King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah earned top regional rankings from Skytrax.
King Fahd International Airport also won awards for best services for individuals with disabilities and best customs inspection area. Meanwhile, Saudi airlines like Saudia and Flynas received accolades for their outstanding performance and customer service.
A Vision for the Future
Saudi Arabia’s ambitious National Aviation Strategy aims to further elevate its aviation sector. By 2030, the Kingdom seeks to triple annual passenger numbers to 330 million, expand connectivity to over 250 destinations, and increase air freight capacity to 4.5 million tons.
King Fahd International Airport’s remarkable performance positions it as a key player in realizing this vision. As the airport continues to grow and modernize, it is poised to become a major aviation hub in the region.
