Progress and Achievements in Saudi Arabia’s Civil Aviation Sector
His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, on the occasion of the release of the 2024 annual report for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Al-Duailej praised the ambitious initiative’s accomplishments over the past nine years, noting that it has achieved an impressive 93% of its targeted objectives. He emphasized that this success underscores the depth and comprehensiveness of the vision, reflecting the comprehensive developmental renaissance that the Kingdom is experiencing across various sectors.
Al-Duailej remarked on the transformative changes in the civil aviation sector, attributing these advancements to divine guidance and the unwavering support from the Kingdom’s leadership. This backing has allowed Saudi Arabia to establish itself as a prominent global center in the aviation industry, significantly enhancing its competitive standing both regionally and internationally.
Highlighting the General Authority of Civil Aviation’s operational efficiency, Al-Duailej stated that the agency has achieved 100% of its target indicators and initiatives related to the Vision. Notably, Saudi Arabia ranks 17th globally in the air connectivity index published by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), exceeding its 2024 target by two positions.
The year 2024 has been a pivotal moment for the Kingdom’s aviation accomplishments. During this year, more than 128 million passengers traveled through Saudi airports, with over 905,000 flights recorded. Air cargo volume also surpassed 1.2 million tons, demonstrating the significant international presence of the Kingdom’s airports and airlines in leading global performance metrics and rankings.
Regarding national employment initiatives, Al-Duailej highlighted the remarkable success of the "Localization of Aviation Sector Jobs" initiative. In 2024, the program resulted in the employment of 14,317 Saudi citizens, exceeding its target by 124% based on a goal of 11,500 jobs by the end of 2025. This initiative has focused particularly on specialized, high-quality, and leadership positions within airports, airlines, and ground services. Furthermore, the aviation sector has made substantial strides in empowering women, with their representation in leadership roles now at 17%.
Additionally, Al-Duailej announced that GACA has launched the air taxi experience during the 1445H Hajj season for the first time. The organization has also granted licenses for innovative flying technologies, unveiled new travel lounges, and contributed to the expansion of several regional airports, aligning with the Kingdom’s vision to adopt future-oriented solutions and enhance sustainability within the air transport sector.
The civil aviation landscape in Saudi Arabia has witnessed significant progress since the National Aviation Strategy’s approval and implementation. Key developments include the privatization of airports and the transfer of their management to the Holding Airports Company, the initiation of plans for King Salman International Airport and a new master plan for Abha International Airport, as well as launching an integrated logistics zone in Riyadh, the first of its kind in the Kingdom. The second phase of the development and expansion of Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah has also been inaugurated, along with new terminal enhancements at Jeddah and Taif airports. Further improvements have been made at Qassim International Airport, Al-Ahsa International Airport, Neom Bay Airport, Red Sea International Airport, Arar International Airport, and Al-Qaisumah International Airport. Moreover, the establishment of Riyadh Air and the signing of purchase agreements for 548 aircraft to date showcase the ongoing growth in the aviation sector.
In concluding his statement, Al-Duailej prayed for the continued success of the Kingdom’s leadership and the sustained security and prosperity of the nation. He reaffirmed GACA’s commitment to working diligently to realize the leadership’s aspirations and contribute to a prosperous future for Saudi Arabia on the global aviation stage.
