The business jet sector in Saudi Arabia experienced a remarkable 24% increase in flight volumes in 2024, according to the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). This announcement was made during a Saudi House aviation event at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Flight numbers grew from 19,000 in 2023 to 23,612 in 2024, with domestic flights rising by 26% and international flights by 15%. Key airport hubs such as King Abdulaziz International in Jeddah, King Khalid International in Riyadh, and King Fahd International in Dammam all reported significant increases in business jet traffic.
Popular destinations included Sindalah, the Red Sea, and Al Ula, with major events like the Future Investment Initiative and Formula One Grand Prix in Jeddah contributing to this growth.
Mohammed Alkhuraisi, GACA’s Executive VP of Strategy and Business, emphasized the importance of the business jet sector in supporting Saudi Arabia’s luxury tourism and business industries. He mentioned an ongoing investment program to enhance aviation infrastructure and services.
The General Aviation Roadmap, introduced during the Future Aviation Forum, aims to transform the sector into a $2 billion industry by 2030, creating 35,000 jobs. This plan includes developing six business aviation airports and nine terminals, along with increasing Fixed-Base Operators and maintenance capacities.
An agreement was finalized in December 2024 for Jubail Airport to become one of the dedicated general aviation airports, further expanding the sector’s capabilities and services.