Saudi Arabia plans to upgrade airports, targeting 330 million air passengers
Saudi Arabia is set to enhance its airports and aviation sector, aiming to establish itself as a key transport and logistics hub.
Abdulaziz Al Duailej, the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), expressed that the Saudi Aviation Strategy aligns with economic development goals and offers investment opportunities worldwide. Al Duailej highlighted the aspirations outlined in Saudi Vision 2030, envisioning the Kingdom as a prominent regional hub and a global logistics platform connecting three continents.
Participating in the Wings India 2024 exhibition conference, Al Duailej announced ambitious plans for Saudi airports, targeting 330 million air passengers and attracting $100 billion in investments by 2030. The event, organized by the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), saw international leaders and heads of civil aviation organizations discussing the industry's future.
Al Duailej emphasised the pivotal role of civil aviation in supporting Saudi Arabia's economic growth and sustainable development. The Saudi Aviation Strategy aims to position the Kingdom as a regional leader in civil aviation by securing $100 billion in investments and offering a superior travel experience for over 330 million passengers annually by 2030. The strategy prioritises sustainable and integrated growth, targeting only 10% of the 330 million passengers to be transit passengers.
The comprehensive strategy involves upgrading and developing airports, airlines, aircraft, facilities, shipping, and logistics services. Saudi Arabia plans to enhance air connectivity to more than 250 destinations worldwide through 29 airports. Additionally, two global connectivity centres in Riyadh and Jeddah will lead to the establishment of an efficient airport network.
By 2030, the Saudi Aviation Strategy hopes to boost air freight capacity from 0.8 million metric tonnes to 4.5 million metric tonnes, revolutionising logistics services as well. It is anticipated that this programme will draw multinational corporations, logistics service providers, and international airlines to the Kingdom.
Recognising the potential of the Indian civil aviation market, Al Duailej expressed Saudi Arabia's interest in increasing air links between India and the Kingdom. He highlighted the importance of strengthening relations with global civil aviation partners and invited participants in the Wings India 2024 exhibition to attend the Future of Aviation Conference in Riyadh from May 20 to 22, 2024. The conference aims to contribute to the future of civil aviation and foster collaboration for a prosperous and sustainable sector.
