FIFA World Cup 2034 a ‘game changer’ for Saudi tourism, experts say

FIFA World Cup 2034 a ‘game changer’ for Saudi tourism, experts say
The World Cup will showcase Saudi Arabia to the world. Shutterstock
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Updated 25 April 2025
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FIFA World Cup 2034 a ‘game changer’ for Saudi tourism, experts say

FIFA World Cup 2034 a ‘game changer’ for Saudi tourism, experts say

RIYADH: Hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2034 is expected to transform Saudi Arabia's tourism sector and accelerate the nation’s economic diversification, experts said. 

The Kingdom was awarded the competition by the sport’s international governing body in December, and is set to hold the event in 15 stadiums across five cities. 

Saudi Arabia’s sports tourism sector has been witnessing rapid growth since the launch of Vision 2030 nine years ago, with the Kingdom drawing 2.5 million visitors through 80 international events in the last four years, Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb said in February. 

Bolstering the tourism sector is one of the crucial goals outlined in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, as the Kingdom is steadily diversifying its economy by reducing its decade-long reliance on oil revenues. 

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious National Tourism Strategy aims to attract 150 million visitors by the end of this decade. 




Cristiano Ronaldo is one of a host of footballing superstars who now play in the Saudi league. Getty

Speaking to Arab News, Federico Pienovi, chief business officer and CEO of New Markets at Globant, said that the mega football event presents immense opportunities for the Kingdom to develop multiple sectors.

“Hosting the FIFA World Cup is a game-changer for Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector. For Saudi Arabia, FIFA World Cup 2034 represents a key milestone in its Vision 2030 strategy, accelerating economic diversification beyond oil by boosting tourism, hospitality, infrastructure, and smart city development,” said Pienovi. 

He added that the tournament accelerates the Kingdom’s tourist number ambitions by putting Saudi Arabia on the map for future leisure and business tourism.

Guillaume Thibault, partner and head of sports and entertainment at Oliver Wyman for India, the Middle East and Africa, echoed similar views and said the football gala will be a major catalyst for Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification, attracting over 10 million international visitors.

Thibault added that the event is also expected to accelerate Saudi Arabia’s national strategies in tourism, transport, and quality of life, creating opportunities in construction, hospitality, fan engagement, and talent development — all while mobilizing private sector investment. 




Argentina won the World Cup the only other time the competition was held in the region — Qatar in 2022. Getty

The Oliver Wyman official further said that hosting events such as the FIFA World Cup could boost the gross domestic product of Saudi Arabia, as well as creating immense job opportunities. 

“On a macroeconomic level, past World Cups have contributed up to 10 percent GDP growth, as seen in South Africa 2010, while creating tens of thousands of jobs. Saudi Arabia can maximize its investment impact by aligning with local businesses and PIF-backed companies, ensuring long-term economic gains and positioning itself as a global sports and business hub,” said Thibault. 

Max Klante, managing director and partner of Boston Consulting Group, said that major sporting events such as the 2034 World Cup, Formula 1, and the upcoming Asian games, will serve as an entry point for global audiences, showcasing Saudi Arabia as a travel destination.

“They provide a platform to highlight the Kingdom’s culture, heritage, and landscapes to the world while showcasing new and exciting entertainment and cultural experiences such as eSports and adventure extreme sports. The integration of sports, media, entertainment, and culture boosts international visibility and fosters long-term tourism growth,” said Klante. 

Saudi Arabia has already hosted several major sporting events, including the WWE Super Showdown, the Saudi Pro-Golf Championship, Battle of the Champions, and Formula E. 

The Kingdom has also witnessed E-Prix, the International Handball Federation Super Globe and the Saudi International Meeting for Disabilities Sport, as well as organizing the auction of players for the 2025 Indian Premier League, a major cricketing event which features 10 professional clubs. 

Long-term impacts

According to Pienovi, hosting major sporting events will not only boost tourism in the Kingdom but will also support the country’s infrastructure growth for the long term. 

“Beyond the tournament, the country will benefit from long-term infrastructure improvements, smart venue advancements, and the rise of new entertainment hubs that will attract visitors for years to come,” said Pienovi. 

Thibault said that hosting such events will help Saudi Arabia establish itself as a premier sports destination globally, strengthen global ties, attract international business, and enhance the Kingdom’s geopolitical influence. 

 “When executed strategically, major sporting events leave a lasting impact beyond the tournament itself. Mega-events drive billions in tourism, investment, and job creation. The 2012 London Olympics, for example, contributed $17 billion to the UK economy, proving their long-term financial impact,” said Thibault. 

He added: “In terms of urban transformation, such events accelerate infrastructure development and reshape cities. The Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics revitalized an entire region, turning legacy resorts into prime real estate. Saudi Arabia’s smart city and transport investments will ensure similar long-term benefits.” 

Elevating diplomatic and bilateral relationship

The Oliver Wyman official further said that hosting such global events could help Saudi Arabia strengthen its bilateral relationship with several countries. 

Saudi Arabia is already a diplomatic leader, ranking 18th in the Global Soft Power Index 2024 and has already hosted key forums including the G20 Summit and the World Economic Forum. 

“Mega-events further enhance global ties by bringing nations together through sport, fostering cultural exchange, trade, and investment partnerships. By attracting global leaders, Saudi Arabia can deepen international collaborations, expand economic alliances, and position itself as a key player in global sports diplomacy,” said Thibault. 

Klante also expressed identical views and said that successfully hosting global tournaments will enhance Saudi Arabia’s standing as a reliable and capable partner on the world stage.

“The ability to deliver top-tier sporting events creates unique opportunities for diplomatic engagement and strengthens economic and cultural ties with other nations. Stronger ties promote global understanding, security and prosperity,” added the BCG official. 

Klante added that hosting major international events will establish Saudi Arabia’s credibility in sports management and global event organization, while also opening opportunities for developing long-term partnerships with international teams, leagues, and sports federations.

He further said that such events in Saudi Arabia could also boost the morale in the Kingdom, and the country will see more sporting heroes in the coming years. 

“The ability to host major events inspires our youth to follow in the footsteps of their sports heroes. This strengthens engagement in sports, be this football, eSports, athletics or formula car racing. By inspiring the youth of today we lay the foundation for the top athletes of tomorrow,” said Klante. 




A drone show in Riyadh after Saudi Arabia was announced as the host nation for the FIFA World Cup 2034 on December 11. Getty

Potential challenges

Experts who talked with Arab News also talked about the potential challenges Saudi Arabia could face as the Kingdom gears up to face global sporting events. 

According to Pienovi, the challenge for the Kingdom lies in integrating cutting-edge technology for seamless fan interactions — whether it’s AI-driven crowd management, frictionless ticketing, or hyper-personalized digital experiences. 

“Fans now expect an immersive, waitless, and contactless experience, powered by AI, AR/VR, and digital personalization. Implementing biometric entry, tech-driven loyalty programs and real-time engagement solutions will be key to delivering a next-level experience,” said Pienovi. 

He added: “The challenge is not just in adopting these technologies but in making them intuitive, frictionless, and scalable across multiple venues.”

The Globant official believes that ensuring seamless connectivity across all platforms — from real-time streaming to AR-powered second-screen experiences — will be crucial for reaching international audiences and keeping fans engaged beyond the stadium. 

Klante underscored the vitality of strengthening the transport systems in the Kingdom, as well as, bolstering the logistical prowess, and said that “world-class events require complex logistical planning, complex integration and seamless execution.”

He added: “Ensuring global accessibility, efficient transport, and a smooth visitor experience will be critical to success. A focus must always be placed on how the visitor journey interacts with the various city and intercity transport solutions — creating a unified experience like no other.” 

Thibault also expressed similar views and said that logistics, crowd management and infrastructure development are crucial for Saudi Arabia to seamlessly host mega events like FIFA World Cup. 

The Oliver Wyman official added that managing transport, security, and emergency response requires advanced planning, with mega-projects including NEOM and Qiddiya integrating AI-driven security and real-time crowd monitoring. 

“The challenge lies in balancing speed with sustainability. Legacy planning is key to avoiding underutilized venues, ensuring stadiums transition into training hubs, community centers, or professional league facilities,” added Thibault.


Pakistan ports face export backlog as India’s transit ban forces shipping lines to reroute

Pakistan ports face export backlog as India’s transit ban forces shipping lines to reroute
Updated 21 min 8 sec ago
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Pakistan ports face export backlog as India’s transit ban forces shipping lines to reroute

Pakistan ports face export backlog as India’s transit ban forces shipping lines to reroute
  • Shipping companies launch special feeder services via Colombo to handle cargo from Pakistan
  • Some international shipper are imposing up to $800 surcharge per container amid the situation

KARACHI: Pakistan is facing a “big backlog” of export containers at its ports after international shipping lines began bypassing the country, following India’s decision to block vessels carrying Pakistani cargo, officials and shipping documents confirmed to Arab News on Friday.
The disruption has led several global shipping companies to impose emergency operational surcharges on Pakistani cargo, citing the “significant impact” of regional geopolitical tensions on their operations.
The move is expected to raise shipping costs and, ultimately, consumer prices in Pakistan, a country of over 240 million people already grappling with economic challenges.
“The European shipping services are bypassing Pakistan ports after India’s ban on the transit of ships loaded with cargoes from Pakistan,” said Syed Tahir Hussain, Secretary General of the Pakistan Ship Agents Association (PSAA).
He accused New Delhi of attempting to undermine Pakistan’s recovering economy, which has shown signs of stabilization under the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) $7 billion loan program.
PSAA Chairman Mohammed A. Rajpar called India’s move “unwarranted” and against international conventions, saying it was designed to discourage shipping lines from calling at Pakistani ports.
The situation comes as Islamabad is attempting to break free from its boom-and-bust economic cycles by boosting exports, which rose 6 percent to $27 billion through April, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.
Until recently, many international shipping services transited Pakistani cargo through India’s largest ports — Mundra and Nhava Sheva — by loading what is termed Remaining On Board (ROB) freight.
However, India embargoed this practice last week, prompting several carriers to remove Pakistani ports from their routes and instead launch dedicated feeder services to handle trade valued at approximately $87 billion last year.
Most of Pakistan’s containerized cargo is handled through the South Asia Pakistan Terminal (SAPT) operated by CH Hutchison Holdings, Qasim International Container Terminal (QICT) run by DP World and the Karachi Gateway Terminal managed by Abu Dhabi Ports Group.
“Some vessels carrying Pakistan’s exports sailed from QICT were not allowed berthing in India,” said Hussain, whose association represents over 50 international shipping lines.
“They had to divert to Dubai and other nearby ports,” he added, without specifying when the incident occurred.
Shipping documents seen by Arab News show that at least four vessels were denied entry by Indian authorities earlier this week due to “Karachi onboard cargo.” These ships were rerouted to Colombo in Sri Lanka and Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates.
Swiss carrier MSC Mediterranean Shipping redirected all destination cargo via Colombo aboard its vessel MSC Positano V-JP526R, which had been scheduled to call at QICT on May 6.
This change, MSC said in a customer notice, was “due to the current geopolitical situation and restrictions on imports and exports via/from India.”
French shipping giant CMA CGM has removed Karachi from at least four of its service routes, citing the need to adjust operations to and from Pakistan.
“BIG BACKLOG” AT PORTS
Export congestion is building at Pakistani ports as hundreds of containers await shipment.
“There is big backlog,” said Khurram Mukhtar, Patron-in-Chief of the Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA).
Textiles remain Pakistan’s largest export sector, contributing $17 billion last year.
Mukhtar noted that most shipping lines were now planning to route exports through Colombo, with system updates expected by Monday.
MSC has launched a “Pakistan-Colombo Shuttle Service,” a weekly feeder vessel that will transport export containers to Sri Lanka for onward connections to global destinations.
Amid the ongoing crisis, international shipping lines have begun imposing surcharges on Pakistani exporters and importers.
CMA CGM has introduced an Emergency Operational Recovery Surcharge (EORS) of up to $800 per container for shipments to the US, Latin America and Australia, effective from May 15 through June 6.
The French firm said the surcharge was necessary to maintain service reliability and safety during this period. CMA CGM operates more than 250 routes globally with a fleet of 650 vessels.
“Pakistan’s exports are suffering,” said a senior official at one of Pakistan’s major container terminals, speaking on condition of anonymity.
“This will lead to the buildup of a huge container backlog at Pakistani ports,” the official said. “There will be issues like port demurrages. The shipping lines will be charging the consignees with detentions.”


PM Sharif announces IMF approval of $1 billion disbursement to Pakistan under $7 billion deal

PM Sharif announces IMF approval of $1 billion disbursement to Pakistan under $7 billion deal
Updated 09 May 2025
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PM Sharif announces IMF approval of $1 billion disbursement to Pakistan under $7 billion deal

PM Sharif announces IMF approval of $1 billion disbursement to Pakistan under $7 billion deal
  • The prime minister expresses satisfaction India’s ‘efforts to sabotage’ the loan program had failed
  • He says Pakistan’s economic situation is improving and it is moving toward financial progress

KARACHI: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a $1 billion disbursement for Pakistan under a loan program secured by the government last year, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in an official statement late Friday.

The announcement followed an IMF Executive Board meeting to finalize staff-level agreements related to the $1 billion payout, as well as Pakistan’s new $1.3 billion arrangement under a climate resilience facility approved in March.

The meeting took place at a time when Pakistan is working to revive investment amid a gradually stabilizing macroeconomic environment, following a prolonged downturn that compelled it to seek external financing from allies and global lenders.

“Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed satisfaction over the IMF’s approval of the $1 billion tranche for Pakistan and the failure of India’s underhanded tactics against the country,” his office said in a statement issued after the board’s decision.

Media reports said recently India had attempted to pressure the IMF to block the disbursement, citing heightened military tensions between the two neighbors following a deadly April 22 attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that left 26 tourists dead.

New Delhi blamed Islamabad for the assault, an allegation Pakistani officials repeatedly denied.

Sharif said international financial institutions had “responsibly rejected” India’s narrative and reaffirmed their trust in Pakistan’s economic strategy.

“Indian efforts to sabotage the IMF program have failed,” he said, adding the disbursement would help stabilize the economy and steer it toward long-term recovery.

He praised Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and other members of the government’s economic team for their role in securing the funds.

Pakistan has been working to broaden its tax base, improve energy sector efficiency, and unlock private sector growth as part of its reform commitments under the $7 billion IMF loan program.

“By the grace of God, the country’s economic situation is improving, and Pakistan is moving toward progress,” Sharif said. “The government remains committed to tax reforms, energy sector improvements and private sector development.”

He reiterated that Pakistan would stay the course on economic stabilization, effective performance and long-term planning.

The IMF funding approval comes at a critical time for Pakistan, as it seeks to reassure global investors and shore up foreign exchange reserves amid geopolitical instability and upcoming budget negotiations.


Pakistani stocks surge sharply on IMF optimism, hopes of easing India-Pakistan standoff

Pakistani stocks surge sharply on IMF optimism, hopes of easing India-Pakistan standoff
Updated 09 May 2025
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Pakistani stocks surge sharply on IMF optimism, hopes of easing India-Pakistan standoff

Pakistani stocks surge sharply on IMF optimism, hopes of easing India-Pakistan standoff
  • The benchmark KSE-100 index rose 3,647.82 points, or 3.52 percent, to close at 107,541.45
  • India-Pakistan tensions triggered about 12 percent market decline between April 23 and May 8

KARACHI: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) rebounded sharply on Friday, climbing over 3,500 points, as investor sentiment improved ahead of an International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board meeting and what some analysts described as easing tensions between Pakistan and India.

The benchmark KSE-100 index recovered 3,647.82 points, or 3.52 percent, closing at 107,541.45, after a historic plunge of 6,482 points on Thursday, the largest single-day drop in the index’s history, triggered by fears of an escalating conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

"The recovery was on account of optimism on IMF Executive Board meeting scheduled to consider Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program, where market expects smooth approval," Topline Market Review said after the end of trading. "Overall decline in cross border hostilities also provided stimulus to investor sentiment."

The EFF, a $7 billion loan program secured by Pakistan in September last year, is aimed at stabilizing the country's economy through structural reforms and fiscal consolidation.

While Pakistan’s authorities say macroeconomic indicators have improved in recent months, they view the IMF support as critical for sustaining gains and transitioning toward growth.

Some analysts also linked the improved investor confidence to what they described as a gradually easing geopolitical situation between India and Pakistan.

"Stocks staged sharp recovery as investor eye de-escalation in Pakistan-India tensions after US appeal for end to violence," Ahsan Mehanti, the Chief Executive Officer of Arif Habib Commodities, told Arab News.

Raza Jafri, the head of Intermarket Securities, said any de-escalation could extend the positive stock market trend.

"Institutional value buying, especially in blue-chip high dividend yielding stocks, saw the KSE100 rebound today," he added.

Tensions between India and Pakistan spiked this week after New Delhi launched missile strikes on multiple locations in Pakistan, blaming Islamabad for a deadly April 22 attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists. Pakistan has denied involvement.

The crisis triggered a 12 percent decline in the Pakistani market from April 23 to May 8.

The geopolitical unrest posed a major challenge for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s efforts to stabilize the economy, which depends on a number of factors including increased foreign investment, exports and revenue generation.


Pakistan’s remittances hit record $31.2 billion in current fiscal year, led by Saudi inflows

Pakistan’s remittances hit record $31.2 billion in current fiscal year, led by Saudi inflows
Updated 09 May 2025
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Pakistan’s remittances hit record $31.2 billion in current fiscal year, led by Saudi inflows

Pakistan’s remittances hit record $31.2 billion in current fiscal year, led by Saudi inflows
  • PM Sharif praises overseas Pakistanis for supporting the country’s economic recovery
  • Central bank projects remittances to reach $38 billion by end of current fiscal year

KARACHI: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday lauded the contribution of overseas Pakistanis as workers’ remittances surged to a record $31.2 billion during the first ten months of the current fiscal year, with Saudi Arabia emerging as the top source of inflows.

According to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), remittances rose by 30.9 percent during July-April FY25 compared to $23.9 billion received in the same period last year.

In April alone, Pakistan received $3.2 billion, showing a 13.1 percent year-on-year increase. The inflows were mainly sourced from Saudi Arabia ($725.4 million), United Arab Emirates ($657.6 million), United Kingdom ($535.3 million) and the United States ($302.4 million).

“Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed satisfaction over a 31 percent increase in remittances during the first 10 months of fiscal year 2025 compared to the previous year,” a statement issued by his office said.

“Remittances reaching a record level is a reflection of the confidence of overseas Pakistanis in government policies,” it quoted him as saying.

Remittances form a vital pillar of Pakistan’s external sector, helping stabilize the current account, fueling domestic consumption and easing the country’s reliance on external borrowing.

Earlier this year, in March, the SBP recorded an all-time monthly high of $4.1 billion in remittance inflows, driven by seasonal factors and improved formal channel usage.

Pakistan has focused on boosting exports and remittances in recent years as part of broader efforts to strengthen its external sector and address economic vulnerabilities.

The central bank has also revised its FY25 remittance projection upward from $36 billion to $38 billion, citing current trends.
 


‘A revolution in the way people travel’ — Saudi aviation industry soaring with sky-high ambition

‘A revolution in the way people travel’ — Saudi aviation industry soaring with sky-high ambition
Updated 09 May 2025
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‘A revolution in the way people travel’ — Saudi aviation industry soaring with sky-high ambition

‘A revolution in the way people travel’ — Saudi aviation industry soaring with sky-high ambition

RIYADH: Increased technology integration and greater connectivity over the next five years will see Saudi Arabia cement its position as a global aviation hub, experts have told Arab News.

In a comprehensive assessment of the Kingdom’s air sector, analysts and industry insiders have set out how investment in infrastructure, the roll out of new airlines, and a focus on sustainability will see Saudi Arabia reach its Vision 2030 goals.

The Kingdom is targeting handling 330 million passengers annually across 250 destinations by the end of the decade, as well as  transporting 4.5 million tonnes of cargo.

The industry laid the groundwork for this growth in 2024, achieving record-breaking results with the 94 million passengers transported representing  a 15 percent year-on-year increase, alongside a 10 percent rise in flight activity, and a 52 percent boost in air cargo, to reach nearly 1 million tonnes.

The International Air Transport Association’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, Kamil Al-Awadhi told Arab News that the Kingdom is preparing for the aviation sector to play an even bigger role in its future. 

“Over the next five years, we expect continued development in digitalization and connectivity, and for Saudi Arabia to be in an even stronger position as a global hub, driving economic and social growth for the Kingdom,” he said.

Al-Awadhi also emphasized that the nation’s regulatory reforms and commitment to sustainability will be key factors in attracting international airline partnerships and investment. 

He added: “GACA’s (the General Authority of Civil Aviation) revision of its charging scheme, to make Saudi airports more competitive in the region, is a positive step, now and for the future. As is its establishment of an independent economic regulatory framework.”

The top official noted that Saudi Arabia is the first country in the Middle East and North Africa to do this, and encouraged others to follow.

Riyadh Air — a portal to the Kingdom

A key development in the sector is the highly anticipated debut of Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new full-service airline, set to launch in 2025. 

The company has made significant strides in preparation for its release, including major aircraft acquisitions, strategic alliances, and technological investments.

Mark Bothorn, principal of innovation practice at Arthur D. Little Middle East, highlighted that the launch of Riyadh Air is a “watershed moment for Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector — an event of this scale and significance happens perhaps once a decade.”

He added: “As a full-service national flag carrier, Riyadh Air will not only enhance domestic connectivity but also position the Kingdom’s capital as a major global aviation hub.”

Bothorn further anticipated that the new national carrier would serve as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia, embodying the nation’s vision through cutting-edge design, unparalleled guest experience, and world-class connectivity. “The way the world perceives Riyadh will, in many ways, be shaped by the experiences this airline delivers,” he added.

Mark Bothorn, principal of innovation practice at Arthur D. Little Middle East. Supplied

The airline has ordered 60 Airbus A321neo jets, with plans for additional wide-body aircraft this year. It has secured agreements with Singapore Airlines, Air China, and Delta Air Lines to enhance interline connectivity, codeshare operations, and frequent flyer benefits.

Riyadh Air is collaborating with Artefact to develop an advanced data analytics platform that aims to offer hyper-personalized services and seamless digital-first experiences. Its initial routes will connect Saudi Arabia to major cities in Europe, North America, and Asia, enhancing its international connectivity.

Riyadh Air plans to connect with more than 100 cities by 2030. Shutterstock

The Kingdom’s existing airlines are also undergoing significant transformations to cater to the growing demand and enhance international reach. 

Saudia has placed a historic $19 billion order for 105 Airbus A320neo aircraft to expand its fleet, set for delivery starting in 2026.

Additionally, the airline is enhancing its maintenance and repair capabilities through a partnership with Air France-KLM. Flyadeal, Saudia’s budget airline, aims to double its fleet to 100 aircraft by 2030, offering affordable travel options across domestic and regional routes.

Flynas, the region’s top low-cost airline, secured a 280-aircraft deal, including Airbus A320neo and A330neo models, to support its aggressive expansion strategy. The airline also introduced new routes connecting Saudi Arabia to Africa and Europe.

Bothorn commented on the impact of heightened market contenders, saying: “Increased competition is always a catalyst for innovation and improvement, and in Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector, it will lead to two transformative outcomes.”

First, enhanced connectivity will strengthen Riyadh’s position as a global business hub by providing seamless access to international markets through more flights and improved routing.

Second, Riyadh Air, unburdened by legacy systems, has the potential to redefine air travel, setting new benchmarks in passenger experience and efficiency, according to Bothorn.

Airport infrastructure soars 

To handle the volume that new airlines will be attracting, Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in airport infrastructure. 

King Salman International Airport in Riyadh is set to become one of the world’s largest airports, with ongoing developments led by global firms including Foster & Partners and Jacobs Engineering. The airport will increase its capacity to accommodate 120 million passengers by 2030.

King Khalid International Airport’s expansion includes upgrades to Terminals 1 and 2, increasing capacity to 14 million passengers annually. Saudia’s deal with German aerospace company Lilium NV will introduce 50 electric vertical takeoff and landing jets, making it the first airline in the region to invest in sustainable air travel.

Bothorn emphasized the impact of airport infrastructure advancements. “For many travelers, the airport experience is often the most stressful part of a journey — navigating terminals, dealing with security bottlenecks, and enduring long waits.”

He added: “A seamless integration between the airport and airlines can dramatically transform this, replacing frustration with efficiency and even moments of delight.”

Bothorn envisioned airports that proactively anticipate passenger needs, with real-time updates enabling travelers to relax in lounges or dine rather than wait at gates.

An impression of how King Salman International Airport will look when construction is completed. File

Investment turbines spin

Saudi Arabia’s business aviation sector is thriving, driven by an influx of high-net-worth individuals and economic expansion. The sector, valued at $1.2 billion in 2023, is expected to grow at an annual rate of 8.88 percent from 2025 to 2029.

GACA is further boosting this sector by removing restrictions on foreign on-demand charter flights, allowing international operators to enter the domestic private aviation market starting in May.

Infrastructure and transportation developments outlined in the 2025 Saudi budget report reinforce these aviation ambitions. The gross domestic product of the transportation and logistics sector grew by 6.4 percent in the first half of 2024.

Total investment contracts signed in this sector amounted to over SR200 billion ($53.3 billion). Saudi Arabia has also strengthened its global presence by securing key positions in international aviation organizations, including hosting the UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum in 2026 and chairing the Executive Council of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization.

To enhance aviation services, the Kingdom has looked to implement modern and eco-friendly transportation initiatives during the Hajj season, including self-driving taxis, smart delivery vehicles, and increased aircraft seat capacity for pilgrims. Performance-based operations and maintenance contracts have been executed to enhance asset management efficiency.

Plans for 2025 include SR42 billion allocated for the infrastructure and transportation sector, which will witness the launch of several travel lounges across international airports, licensing new national air carriers, and expanding public bus networks to improve intercity and regional connectivity.

Al-Awadhi of IATA further elaborated on the nation’s role in shaping global aviation policies. “Many countries in the region look to Saudi Arabia for developing their aviation sectors, so the Kingdom plays an important role in shaping regional policies.”

Recent work revamping economic regulation related to consumer protection, safety and security has been followed by other countries in the region, according to the top official.

“We’re stronger as an industry when standards are aligned, not just regionally but globally,” he added.

Private jets and Saudi Arabia’s aviation roadmap

Saudi Arabia has made developing the private aviation market a key part of its roadmap for the sector, with the charter and corporate jet segments being supported by infrastructure upgrades such as six new general aviation airports.

The sector’s growth aligns with Vision 2030’s diversification efforts, particularly in tourism and entertainment, with destinations like AlUla and the Red Sea International Airport, capable of handling 1 million tourists annually, driving demand. 

During 2024’s Future Aviation Forum, GACA unveiled a roadmap aimed at increasing the general aviation sector’s contribution to GDP, targeting a tenfold growth to reach $2 billion by 2030. The plan encompassed the business aircraft sector, including private charter flights and corporate aviation.

Sustainability is another focus, with GACA’s plan targeting net-zero emissions by 2060 through initiatives such as sustainable aviation fuel and AI-driven efficiency optimizations. However, challenges, including limited sustainable aviation fuel supply, remain. 

The International Air Transport Association’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East Kamil Al-Awadhi. Supplied

Sustainable skies ahead

IATA’s Al-Awadhi highlighted the recent deal between Red Sea Global and daa International to introduce sustainable aviation fuel at Red Sea International Airport as “a positive step for Saudi Arabia and the region” when it comes to developing a more ecologically friendly sector.

The 35 percent SAF blend, supplied by Arabian Petroleum Supply Co., reduces aircraft emissions by up to 35 percent per flight, aligning with RSG’s broader sustainability efforts, including 400 megawatt-peak of solar installations and plans to plant 50 million mangroves by 2030.

The airport, operational from 2023 and with international flights beginning in 2024, serves the growing Red Sea destination, set to feature 50 resorts by 2030.

The next five years will bring transformative benefits for travelers flying to and from Saudi Arabia. Expanded airline networks will improve connectivity, reduce layovers, and increase travel convenience.

The rise of low-cost carriers like flyadeal and flynas means more budget-friendly flights for domestic and international routes. AI-driven services, biometric security checks, and world-class airport infrastructure will streamline travel, making it more efficient and comfortable.

“Expect nothing short of a revolution in the way people travel,” Bothorn said. He explained that long queues at security and immigration, endless gate waits, and the anxiety of either rushing through the airport or arriving far too early “will become relics of the past.” He projected air travel to become more intuitive and enjoyable.

Al-Awadhi added that Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in digital processing of passengers and integrating latest technologies at airports. 

“We can certainly expect better passenger experience and customer service,” he said, adding: “Airlines are also updating their fleets so travelers will be flying on the latest aircrafts, enjoying what new technologies have to offer. Improved connectivity will provide travelers with more choices, enhancing the overall customer experience.”

Investments in eVTOL aircraft and eco-friendly practices signal a shift toward greener aviation. Saudi Arabia is undergoing a historic transformation in its aviation sector, with massive investments, strategic expansions, and cutting-edge innovations that will redefine the travel experience.

By 2030, the Kingdom aims to be a premier global aviation hub, offering world-class connectivity, seamless air travel, and state-of-the-art airport facilities.