In an event that represents a strategic shift for the Kingdom's air transport sector, His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Province, sponsored today, Sunday, the launch ceremony of the new identity and master plan for King Fahd International Airport. The ceremony was also attended by the master planners of Al-Ahsa and Qaisumah International Airports, and the Dammam Airports Strategy. The event was attended by a number of officials, led by the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, and the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Abdulaziz Al-Duailej.
Giant development projects worth 1.6 billion riyals
During the ceremony, 77 development projects were inaugurated at a total cost exceeding 1.6 billion riyals, targeting infrastructure development, enhancing operational capacity, and improving the passenger experience. Electronic gates for completing travel procedures were also launched, as part of efforts to transform King Fahd International Airport into an integrated logistics center with world-class standards.
A new national budget carrier launches from Dammam
The launch of a new national low-cost carrier, led by Air Arabia, was also announced. It will be based at King Fahd International Airport and serve 24 domestic and 57 international destinations, aiming to increase its seat capacity to 10 million passengers annually by 2030.
An ambitious vision until 2030
In his speech, the Emir of the Eastern Province emphasized that the Kingdom's aviation sector is witnessing a significant development due to the support and ambitious vision of the wise leadership. He noted that these projects represent a qualitative leap towards integrated transportation systems and contribute to strengthening the Kingdom's position as a global logistics hub, as part of the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Unprecedented expansion and doubled capacity
According to the new strategic plan, Dammam Airports aims to:
Serving more than 19.3 million passengers annually by 2030, compared to 9.5 million in 2022.
Increase the operational capacity of aircraft movements to 77 aircraft per hour.
Increasing the airport's capacity to 32 million passengers annually.
Air cargo growth to over 600 tons annually, an increase of over 1000%.
Widespread acclaim and continued support
For his part, Minister of Transport Saleh Al-Jasser affirmed that what has been achieved reflects the leadership's significant support and the transport system's commitment to empowering the private sector and achieving integrated development.
The President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, also pointed out that the aviation program, which stems from the National Transport Strategy, represents a fundamental pillar for enhancing regional and international air connectivity and achieving the Kingdom's objectives in the logistics sector.
Commitment to the best international standards
Dammam Airports has demonstrated its commitment to implementing best operational and technical practices and providing a comprehensive and modern travel experience, contributing to enhancing the Kingdom's regional and international competitiveness in the air transport sector.
