Over the last 12 months, Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry has achieved unprecedented heights, thanks to a spike in passenger volume, the acquisition of new aircraft, and significant international alliances.
These developments are part of a larger plan to position the Kingdom as a major international aviation hub and a premier travel destination.
As part of its “Vision 2030” strategy, Saudi Arabia is spending billions of dollars to diversify its economy away from fossil fuels, strengthen its private sector, improve connectivity, and bolster its position in the global aviation industry.
According to this strategy, the Kingdom’s aviation objectives include transporting 4.5 million tons of air cargo by 2030 and providing 330 million passengers with seamless travel experiences across more than 250 locations.
The President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, said, “This transformative strategy offers lucrative opportunities for the private sector to contribute to the realisation of the country’s ambitions. The possibility of privatising 27 airports, which are currently being prepared for transfer to private hands, is one of these prospects.”
In 2024, Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry experienced unprecedented growth between January and September, with 94 million passengers, which is a 15% increase, travelling through the country. Additionally, the number of flights grew by 10% over 2023, while air freight volumes increased by 52% to nearly 1 million tons.
The industry, which was valued at $1.2 billion in 2023, is predicted to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 8.88% between 2025 and 2029. The GACA’s roadmap, which was presented at the Future Aviation Forum in Riyadh in May, emphasised this expansion.
International companies are being engaged to expand King Salman Airport. Under the direction of the King Salman International Airport Development Co., a division of the Kingdom’s Public Investment Fund, these partnerships will help grow the airport and establish it as a major transportation and tourism hub.
Riyadh Air, which intends to start operations in 2025, inked a deal in October to purchase 60 Airbus A321neo single-aisle aircraft. The agreement was finalised at the 8th Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh. The airline announced in the same month that it plans to order wide-body aircraft in 2025 that can accommodate over 300 passengers.
The new airline declared in August that it had signed a multi-year contract to join Concacaf, the FIFA Confederation for North, Central America, and the Caribbean, as an official airline partner.
The agreement aims to support Concacaf’s national and club events throughout the Americas and increase the airline’s visibility in international sports. In order to forge strategic alliances and broaden its global network, Riyadh Air signed contracts with Singapore Airlines and Air China in June 2025.
The airline’s vice president of digital and innovation, Abe Dev, said, “With AI integration, we aim to redefine travel standards, offering a personalised, seamless, digital-first experience to our guests ahead of our maiden flight in 2025.”
According to CEO Tony Douglas, the airline needs “a very large fleet” to compete with regional giants. Therefore, in May, it announced plans to expand its aircraft portfolio through fresh orders.
This move coincides with the Kingdom’s second flag airline placing an order for 39 Boeing 787-9 aircraft in 2023, with an additional 33 options. Major cities in Europe, the US East Coast, and Canada will be among the airline’s first stops. The first flight is expected to depart by June 2025.
Fleet expansion and alliances to promote aviation
In order to increase and localise its maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities, Saudi Arabia and Air France-KLM formed a strategic collaboration in December 2024. The goal of this partnership is to support the Kingdom’s economic development and improve its aviation infrastructure.
In July, a deal was signed between the Saudia Group and the German aerospace company Lilium NV to purchase 50 confirmed Lilium Jets, with the option to buy another 50. Lilium develops fully electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.
Through this agreement, the Saudi airline will become the first in the region to invest in environmentally friendly air travel. During the Future Aviation Forum in May 2024, Saudi Arabia and Riyadh Air struck a deal to collaborate on aviation professional training.
At the same event, the Saudia Group announced the largest Airbus deal in Saudi history: a $19 billion order for 105 A320neo family aircraft. Deliveries of the aircraft, which include A320neo and A321neo variants, will begin in early 2026 and be divided between Saudi Arabia and its low-cost carrier, flyadeal. Flyadeal will receive its first aircraft and plans to have 100 by 2030.
The first fully-owned aircraft, an Airbus A320neo, was delivered to Flyadeal, a low-cost airline based in Saudi Arabia, in 2024.
The airline announced this milestone in June and stated that it would double its fleet to 100 aircraft by 2030, with plans to increase it to around 50 by the end of 2025. Flyadeal also began operating seven weekly flights using an Airbus A320 between Riyadh and Sarajevo as part of its expansion plan.
The airline revealed that it would launch three new domestic flights in January. Beginning on January 1, there will be four weekly flights to Tabuk and services from Dammam to Najran. On January 2, three weekly flights to Yanbu will also be introduced. Amid its historic expansion, Flynas secured a deal for 280 aircraft.
In the first half of 2024, Flynas, which has been named the Best Low-Cost Airline in the Middle East for seven consecutive years, recorded a 47% increase in passengers, surpassing seven million.
Under its “We Connect the World to the Kingdom” campaign, the airline announced additional African routes in November 2024, including flights from Riyadh to Entebbe, Uganda, and Jeddah to Djibouti, starting January 8, 2025.
At the Farnborough Airshow in July, Flynas doubled its orders to 280 Airbus aircraft, including 130 narrow-body A320 models and 30 wide-body A330neo models, after striking a deal to purchase 160 of the aircraft. As part of an order for 120 aircraft worth SR32 billion ($8.5 billion), the carrier recently celebrated the delivery of its 53rd A320neo.
Historical context and missed opportunities
Saudi Arabia’s aviation renaissance cannot be fully appreciated without understanding the historical inertia it seeks to overcome. For decades, the Kingdom’s skies were primarily the domain of Saudia, the national airline founded in 1945 with a single DC-3 aircraft gifted by US President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.
The airline served a limited network, focused mostly on religious pilgrimages and regional connectivity. Infrastructure development was sporadic, with most airports offering minimal amenities and little to attract international transit passengers.
While nearby Gulf nations aggressively expanded their aviation sectors in the 1990s and early 2000s, which turned Dubai and Doha into global transit hubs, Saudi Arabia remained largely inward-looking. Its vast geography, rich history, and strategic location were underutilised, hampered by bureaucratic inefficiencies and a lack of private sector involvement.
Hajj and Umrah travel formed the bulk of air traffic, leaving tourism, business travel, and cargo operations comparatively underdeveloped. A generation of global travellers passed through the Gulf without ever setting foot in the Kingdom. While other regional airlines boasted gleaming terminals, global partnerships, and next-generation aircraft, many Saudi airports struggled with overcrowding, delays, and a reputation for being outdated.
Vision 2030 is, in many ways, an effort to reclaim that lost ground and reintroduce Saudi Arabia as not just a destination, but a connective force between East and West. Understanding this history is essential to grasp the urgency behind the Kingdom’s current push because it’s not just about growth; it’s about catching up, overtaking, and ultimately leading.
Economic transformation through aviation
At the heart of Vision 2030 is a redefinition of aviation, not just as a transport utility, but as a catalyst for national transformation. Saudi Arabia is not just laying tarmac but also laying the groundwork for an entire economic reconfiguration.
The aviation sector is poised to create over 35,000 jobs by 2030, many of which will be in high-skill areas like aviation engineering, airport management, logistics, and digital systems. This isn’t just job creation; it’s a cultural shift.
For the first time, a generation of young Saudis is being encouraged to see the aviation industry not just as passengers, but as pilots, innovators, and global service leaders. Gender inclusion is another quiet revolution underway: previously male-dominated fields such as air traffic control and aircraft maintenance are now opening up to women, thanks to focused policy changes and state-sponsored scholarships.
Beyond employment, aviation is a key pillar of the Kingdom’s broader goal of attracting 100 million tourists annually. The ripple effects are far-reaching: hospitality, retail, construction, and technology sectors all benefit from increased connectivity. With partnerships formed between GACA and global players like Airbus, Boeing, and Air France-KLM, the Kingdom is actively importing not just aircraft, but knowledge, standards, and practices.
These are not isolated transactions; they represent a long-term bid to develop indigenous capability and reduce overreliance on oil exports. The aviation sector, therefore, is not just a beneficiary of economic diversification; it is a driver. It touches every major node in the national strategy, from soft power to sustainability, and from job creation to foreign investment.
Competition, innovation, and risks
Yet ambition alone does not guarantee altitude. Saudi Arabia’s aviation roadmap must navigate formidable turbulence. The challenge of distinguishing itself from entrenched Middle Eastern players like Emirates and Qatar Airways is real.
These legacy carriers have massive fleets and mature brand identities, dominating strategic transit corridors between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Saudi Arabia’s late entry means it must differentiate itself through service innovation, pricing, and geopolitical leverage. Riyadh Air’s upcoming fleet and partnerships with carriers like Delta and Singapore Airlines are steps in the right direction, but the execution must be flawless.
The Kingdom must also guard against overbuilding. Ambitious projects, such as the 105-aircraft order by the Saudia Group and the development of multiple mega-airports, risk running ahead of demand if not managed with precise traffic forecasts and international market integration.
Furthermore, infrastructure delays, supply chain issues, or misalignment between regulatory bodies and investors could stall momentum. Then there’s the environmental equation: global aviation is under pressure to decarbonise, and Saudi Arabia’s ambitious expansion could face pushback if not paired with credible green initiatives. Investing in sustainable aviation fuels, electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, and green airport designs will be critical to winning global credibility.
Lastly, the political landscape is fluid. Diplomatic shifts, regional instability, or trade conflicts could disrupt traffic flows and strategic partnerships. To succeed, Saudi Arabia must not just build runways but create a resilient, flexible ecosystem that can withstand shocks. That will require more than vision; it will demand agility, humility, and a relentless commitment to world-class standards.
Record-breaking traffic growth
The year 2024 marked a historical high point for Kingdom’s aviation industry. A confluence of increased domestic mobility, expanding international routes, and a recovering global travel market contributed to unprecedented growth.
Over 128 million passengers flew through Saudi airports in 2024, a 15% increase from 2023 and a remarkable 25% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels. This total comprises 59 million domestic travellers and 69 million international passengers. The numbers go beyond statistics and reflect the growing confidence in the Kingdom’s aviation ecosystem.
The Kingdom recorded 905,000 flight movements, split nearly evenly between domestic (474,000) and international (431,000) flights. This surge depicts both the regional integration of Saudi airports and their rising global relevance.
Meanwhile, cargo volumes exceeded 1.2 million tonnes, a 34% year-on-year increase. This positions Saudi Arabia as an emerging logistics giant, critical for regional and intercontinental supply chains.
A booming aviation sector cannot sustain its momentum without robust infrastructure. Saudi Arabia has responded to this challenge by launching a wave of airport modernisations and expansions designed to meet rising demand and improve the passenger experience.
Key facilities such as King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah are undergoing extensive expansions. These projects aim to increase capacity, reduce congestion, and incorporate modern amenities to align with international standards.
Regional airports like Taif International and Al-Ahsa International are receiving substantial upgrades. These developments aim to decentralise air traffic, spur regional development, and enhance overall connectivity within the Kingdom.
As part of broader efforts to improve passenger satisfaction, airports are being redesigned to include better retail spaces, upgraded lounges, and faster immigration processes.
Emergence of Riyadh Air
One of the most significant milestones in Saudi Arabia’s aviation journey is the birth of Riyadh Air, a new national carrier designed to challenge established global players and cater to a growing international audience.
Riyadh Air has placed an order for 60 Airbus A321neo aircraft, with delivery scheduled to begin ahead of its operational launch in the summer of 2025. The choice of a fuel-efficient and modern fleet highlights the airline’s commitment to sustainability and performance.
In a major coup, Riyadh Air has forged a partnership with Delta Air Lines, facilitating direct flights between the US and Saudi Arabia. This is not just a route expansion but a signal of intent that the Kingdom is ready to play on the global stage. Riyadh Air is poised to become a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s modernisation efforts, showcasing its cultural richness, technological aspirations, and service excellence. Vision 2030 is not just about building airports or acquiring aircraft, it is about creating a resilient, competitive, and investor-friendly aviation ecosystem.
Saudi Arabia plans to channel $100 billion into its aviation sector by 2030. This includes investments in infrastructure, aviation services, training, technology, and innovation.
To attract foreign investment and streamline operations, the Kingdom has implemented a range of regulatory reforms. These include new licensing procedures, improved transparency in policymaking, and measures to ease entry for international aviation businesses.
The government is actively inviting private players to participate in airport operations, cargo handling, and ground services, which is creating a more dynamic and diverse aviation market.
Aviation’s role in economic diversification
Aviation is no longer viewed in isolation but as a strategic enabler for economic diversification. The aviation sector is pivotal in achieving the Vision 2030 goal of attracting 100 million annual tourists. From heritage sites in AlUla to Red Sea luxury resorts, improved air connectivity is making Saudi Arabia more accessible than ever.
The aviation sector is expected to contribute $2.08 billion to the GDP and create over 35,000 jobs by 2030. These include roles in airport operations, engineering, hospitality, logistics, and airline management. By inviting international players and experts into the Kingdom, the aviation sector serves as a channel for skills development, technology transfer, and innovation.
Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector is embracing the future with open arms, integrating some of the most advanced technologies available. The Kingdom is developing a roadmap for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), including the use of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. These futuristic vehicles have the potential to redefine urban mobility and reduce traffic congestion in megacities.
Initiatives such as e-gates for faster immigration, AI-powered passenger management systems, and drone-based building maintenance are turning Saudi airports into smart transportation hubs. With growing digitisation, emphasis is also being placed on cybersecurity and the use of big data to enhance operational efficiency and the passenger experience.
The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) also got its new brand identity, along with a digital customer platform, at the beginning of 2025. The new Ajwaa platform will now enable customers to access aviation regulatory and licensing services digitally through a “one-stop shop,” including applications for pilot, cabin crew, and crewmember licenses, and a range of single and annual flight permits.
While the trajectory is impressive, the path forward is not without hurdles. Gulf neighbours such as Dubai and Doha have already established themselves as formidable global aviation players. Saudi Arabia must differentiate itself with unique value propositions in service, pricing, and connectivity.
The rapid pace of growth is exerting pressure on existing infrastructure. Delays in construction, logistical inefficiencies, or misaligned timelines could hamper service quality. As global scrutiny on emissions intensifies, Saudi Arabia must balance growth with a commitment to sustainable aviation, investing in biofuels, carbon offsetting, and green airport designs. Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector is not merely growing, it is evolving with purpose and precision.
From establishing new national carriers and expanding airports to launching technological innovations and reforming regulations, every initiative is a step toward realising Vision 2030.
Yet, the ultimate success will depend on execution. With smart planning, resilient policies, and a long-term commitment to excellence, the Kingdom can transform itself into a global aviation powerhouse that connects the East and West not only through flights but also through ideas, people, and opportunities.
As the engines roar and runways extend, Saudi Arabia is preparing to soar higher than ever before, charting a course toward a bold and diversified future.