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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), hosted today at the Radisson Blu Airport Hotel in Riyadh, the 11th meeting of the Executive Steering Committee of the Cooperative Aviation Security Programme Middle East (CASP-MID). The meeting was chaired by CASP-MID Chairman and GACA's Executive Vice President for Aviation Security Mohammed Alfozan, along with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Regional Director for the Middle East Regional Office Mohamed Abubaker Farea. The meeting included representatives from member states of the program, as well as delegations from ICAO, the Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO), and various supporting international bodies. Participants included representatives from seven countries: Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Libya, Lebanon, Sudan, and Yemen. EVP Alfozan emphasized the significance of these regular meetings in addressing key issues related to civil aviation security. He noted that continued participation from member states is crucial for fostering greater cooperation and improving aviation security both regionally and globally, ultimately contributing to a secure future for civil aviation. Participants at the meeting praised the accomplishments of CASP-MID over the past year. They acknowledged the Kingdom’s leadership in advancing aviation security in the region and its ongoing support for member states and the program's initiatives, which are vital to safeguarding civil aviation from potential threats or illegal interference.

Led by Eng. Mohammed Alkhuraisi, Vice President of Strategy and Business Intelligence at the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), a civil aviation sector delegation took part in today's Saudi British roundtable meeting in the UK, joining major British aviation companies. The gathering brought together CEOs, officials, and specialists from aviation, airports, and related service sectors. Discussions centered on strengthening strategic partnerships, fostering economic development, and pursuing opportunities that support Saudi Vision 2030 goals. The meeting highlighted the Saudi Arabia's aviation sector achievements and facilitated the exchange of expertise, opinions, and investment opportunities with private sector stakeholders. Eng. Alkhuraisi's speech emphasized the robust Saudi British strategic relationship and its key role in fostering economic growth and cultural exchange between the friendly nations. He referenced the recent December agreement targeting $37.5 billion in bilateral trade by 2030, demonstrating the economic significance of this partnership. The relationship's strength is evidenced by the presence of more than 1,000 British companies with Saudi investment licenses and 55 with regional headquarters permits, including BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce. He explained that Saudi Arabia and the UK maintain strong relations in civil aviation, with the UK representing the Saudi Arabia's primary European market. The total number of travelers between Saudi Arabia and Britain in 2024 more than doubled compared to 2022, reaching 1,338,000 passengers. He reported that the Saudi Arabia has successfully launched major investments in airline and airport infrastructure, including establishing Riyadh Air as a new national carrier, launching the masterplan for King Salman International Airport (KSIA) in Riyadh, and various other sector infrastructure investments. These initiatives aim to achieve Saudi Vision 2030 and National Aviation Strategy targets of doubling passenger numbers to 330 million annually, increasing the Saudi Arabia's air connectivity to more than 250 destinations worldwide, and increasing air cargo capacity to 4.5 million tons annually. GACA's VP for Strategy and Business Intelligence wrapped up his speech by urging UK investors and aviation industry representatives to collaborate on developing partnerships, promoting economic growth, and exploring new frontiers that would advance the global aviation sector. Following that, delegation members presented an overview of the civil aviation system, including airport sector strategies and key achievements, air transport and international cooperation's role in enhancing air connectivity to reach 250 destinations, enabling technology and digital transformation, along with a brief overview of the Saudi airports sector - including implementation mechanisms, investment volume, and business opportunities - while highlighting investment in the Saudi aviation sector, enabling factors, and incentives. The delegation also participated in the civil aviation supply forum, where several meetings were held with UK aviation industry representatives from the British Aviation Group (BAG), representatives from the British Air Navigation Company, the British Civil Aviation Authority, and several globally leading companies, with government representatives from the British Embassy to the Saudi Arabia in attendance. These meetings discussed available investment opportunities in civil aviation and airport development. The visit aims to expand international cooperation and exchange expertise in civil aviation, supporting Saudi Vision 2030 goals of establishing Saudi Arabia as a global aviation hub. It seeks to attract global investors, strengthen Saudi-US economic ties, and showcase Saudi Arabia's aviation initiatives to create more travel options, attract quality investments, and enable private sector opportunities in both countries.

Riyadh Air has received its first simulator certification from GACA for its B787-9 aircraft simulator, after it met all required aviation safety standards. The license was presented by Captain Sulaiman bin Saleh Al-Muhaimidi, GACA Executive Vice President of Aviation Safety and Environmental Sustainability, to Peter Bellew, COO of Riyadh Air. The license issuance demonstrates GACA's dedication to strengthening the aviation sector while adhering to international safety and quality standards. It also shows GACA's commitment to embracing new technologies and collaborating with private sector partners to enhance aviation training infrastructure, ensuring the sector's sustainable growth and leadership. This simulator represents a qualitative addition aimed at improving pilot training quality and efficiency, providing a training environment that accurately simulates reality, contributing to enhanced operational readiness and highest levels of operational safety. It is worth noting that the National Civil Aviation Sector Strategy aims to enable Saudi Vision 2030 and establish the Kingdom's aviation sector as the leading sector in the Middle East, reaching 330 million passengers, increasing air cargo capacity to 4.5 million tons, and enhancing air connectivity to reach 250 destinations to and from the Kingdom's airports by 2030.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) yesterday issued its monthly performance report for December 2024 on the Kingdom's international and domestic airports, assessing them based on 11 operational performance standards to align with strategic objectives aimed at improving services, enhancing quality, and ensuring a seamless traveler experience.  King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jizan, Arar International Airport, and Turaif Airport ranked highly in the report, with GACA categorizing airports for performance evaluation based on annual passenger numbers to ensure a transparent approach.  Among the category of international airports with more than 15 million passengers annually, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh achieved first place with an 82% compliance rate. King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah came in second, with 73%.  King Fahd International Airport in Dammam tied for the first place with Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah in the category of international airports serving 5 to 15 million passengers annually, with a 91% compliance rate. The first outperformed the latter in terms of several standards.  In the category of 2 to 5 million annual passengers, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jizan tied for first place with Abha International Airport, both achieving a 100% compliance rate. The first outperformed the latter by reaching higher targets in the specified evaluation criteria.  In the category of airports with fewer than 2 million annual passengers, Arar International Airport achieved a 100% compliance rate, outperforming its competitors in terms of average waiting time for departing and arriving flights.  Turaif Airport achieved first place in the domestic airport category, with a 100% compliance rate, outperforming all competing airports in terms of average waiting time for departing and arriving flights.  GACA evaluates airport performance through operational performance standards, focused on critical passenger touchpoints. These include check-in, security, passport control, customs, baggage claim, and assistance to passengers with reduced mobility. These metrics ensure a smooth and efficient travel experience for all passengers, aligning with international best practices.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) concluded its participation in the "Saudi House" initiative pavilion during the annual World Economic Forum 2025, held in Davos, Switzerland, from January 20 to 24. Organized by the Ministry of Economy and Planning, the initiative featured contributions from several government agencies.  The GACA pavilion attracted notable visitors, including former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and former FIFA President Sepp Blatter, who explored the latest advancements in Saudi aviation and the future of the Kingdom's air transport sector. Their engagement underscored the growing global interest in the investment opportunities offered by Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector.  During its participation, GACA hosted two high-level discussion sessions highlighting investment opportunities, incentives, and the strategic role of aviation as a key driver of Vision 2030. The sessions showcased the achievements of the Kingdom's aviation strategy, its transformation on the global stage, and the unprecedented investment opportunities available in the sector.  GACA outlined its ambitious plans to attract investments exceeding $100 billion, encompassing airports, airlines, ground services, shipping, and logistics. Over $50 billion has been allocated for airport development, approximately $40 billion for new aircraft purchase orders, and $10 billion for other projects, including $5 billion dedicated to establishing special logistics zones around the primary airports in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.

H.E. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), expressed his gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, following the royal decree that renewed his four-year term as GACA's president with a ministerial rank. H.E. Al-Duailej acknowledged his deep appreciation for the royal trust bestowed upon him, acknowledging the extensive support that the Kingdom's civil aviation sector receives from its wise leadership. He pledged to carry out his assigned duties to serve the Kingdom and fully meet the expectations of the country's leadership. H.E. Al-Duailej added that he and all civil aviation sector personnel, reaffirm their dedication to supporting Saudi Vision 2030 objectives, sustaining growth and achievements, and strengthening the Kingdom's position as a global aviation leader, concluding with prayers for the nation's continued security and prosperity.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) explored the future of the sector and its role in supporting innovation and investment during its participation in the Saudi House pavilion at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025, held from January 20 to 24 at Davos, Switzerland. GACA highlighted its efforts to transform the civil aviation sector into an engine for innovation, sustainability, and economic growth for both the Kingdom and the world, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's leadership role on the international stage. The authority discussed investment opportunities through projects and incentives offered by the Kingdom's civil aviation sector, while emphasizing aviation's position as a key driver and supporter within Saudi Vision 2030. This was demonstrated through showcasing the achievements of the aviation sector strategy and its global transformation, alongside unprecedented investment opportunities in the Kingdom launched by the strategy aimed at establishing the aviation sector as an economic growth enabler. GACA highlighted the latest developments in major civil aviation projects in the Kingdom, such as King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, which features six runways, along with public-private partnerships for the privatization and development of Abha, Taif, Hail, and Qassim International Airports. The authority also presented investment opportunities in cargo and logistics, advanced air mobility, commercial aviation, and enabling tourism and business sectors, which play prominent roles in the Kingdom's economy, through the launch of the general aviation roadmap aimed at providing advanced infrastructure, new aircraft, and more sophisticated services. During its participation, GACA discussed the general aviation roadmap and its contribution to significantly increasing GDP, targeting tenfold growth to reach $2 billion by 2030. The sector's future direction includes adopting initiatives and programs to support private aviation, aiming to attract global investors, operators, manufacturers, and service providers to strengthen the Kingdom's position as a general aviation hub, while working to align infrastructure planning and regulations across the sector. The Saudi House pavilion reflects the Kingdom's growing international role and effective influence, serving as a platform connecting entrepreneurs, change-makers, and innovators to present strategic visions on key areas shaping our world's future. It is worth noting that the Saudi House initiative is organized by the Ministry of Economy and Planning, with participation from various government entities, and will hold several dialogue sessions to discuss the latest significant trends in social and economic transformation both locally and internationally.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GCAA) presented its general aviation roadmap and initiatives, highlighting their contribution to significantly increasing GDP, aiming to achieve tenfold growth to reach $2 billion by 2030. This presentation took place during its participation at the Saudi House pavilion as part of the World Economic Forum 2025 annual meeting, held from January 20 to 24 in Davos, Switzerland, organized by the Ministry of Economy and Planning with participation from various government entities. GACA discussed the sector's future direction through initiatives and programs supporting private aviation to attract global investors, operators, manufacturers, and service providers, strengthening the Kingdom's position as a general aviation hub and aligning infrastructure planning and regulations across the sector. Statistically, it highlighted the importance of private aviation in the Kingdom, reporting 24% growth in flight volume during 2024, with private flights increasing from 19,000 in 2023 to 23,500 in 2024. Domestic flights increased by 26% exceeding 9,200 flights, while international flights rose by 15%, reaching 14,400 flights. The Kingdom's main airports led growth in Saudi private aviation, with King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah seeing a 30% increase in private aviation traffic, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh recording 22% growth, and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam showing a 7% increase. Eng. Mohammed bin Fahad Al-Khuraisi, Executive Vice President for Strategy and Business Intelligence at GACA, stated that the growing private aviation sector is key in supporting the Kingdom's tourism and business sectors, announcing GACA's implementation of a first-of-its-kind investment program to ensure the Kingdom provides advanced infrastructure and unprecedented private aviation services. He noted that the Kingdom's general aviation roadmap opens the private aviation sector to the world, offering $2 billion in investment opportunities for investors, operators, manufacturers, and service providers in this vital sector. Eng. Al-Khuraisi mentioned that GACA launched the general aviation roadmap during its participation in the Future Aviation Forum in May 2024, including a comprehensive transformation program to develop the general aviation sector to reach $2 billion by 2030, creating 35,000 jobs. Eng. Al-Khuraisi stated that the general aviation roadmap focuses on establishing advanced infrastructure and implementing robust regulations to create six airports dedicated to private aviation and nine private passenger terminals for private flights. It also aims to increase the number of service providers and maintenance and repair capabilities for private aircraft. He noted that an agreement was signed last December to make Jubail Airport one of six airports dedicated to general aviation in the Kingdom, with the goal of increasing the sector's current operational capabilities and developing private aviation services.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) participated in the Saudi House initiative during the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025, held from January 20 to 24 in Davos, Switzerland. The event, organized by the Ministry of Economy and Planning, featured participation from various government entities. During its participation at the Saudi House, GACA hosted two high-level discussion sessions highlighting investment opportunities through projects and incentives offered by the Kingdom's civil aviation sector. The sessions also emphasized aviation's position as a key driver and supporter within Saudi Vision 2030, showcasing the achievements of the aviation sector strategy and its global transformation, along with unprecedented investment opportunities in the Kingdom launched by the aviation sector strategy aimed at establishing aviation as an economic growth enabler, including the aviation status report. In a session titled "The Future of Aviation," GACA's Executive Vice President for air transport and international cooperation, Ali bin Mohammed Rajab, emphasized that GACA adopts advanced strategies to attract international investments in the aviation sector by focusing on supporting sustainable growth and innovation through international partnerships, contributing to creating economic opportunities and developing Saudi competencies in the aviation sector. He noted that the Kingdom's civil aviation sector efforts extend beyond connecting global destinations, as the sector seeks to enhance international cooperation, support sustainability, and affirm the Kingdom's leading position in global aviation innovations. He stated that the Kingdom confirms its global leadership in civil aviation through its prominent role in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO), and by hosting global events such as the Future Aviation Forum 2024, which witnessed the signing of 102 agreements worth $20 billion. He explained that meeting increasing demand is a major challenge, as manufacturers face order backlogs and airlines struggle with operational capacity constraints. This challenge presents a significant economic growth opportunity, as the Kingdom's aviation sector contributes five times its value to the economic system and requires 279,000 additional jobs to support future expansion plans. He reported that increased air connectivity has enhanced global trade, tourism, and humanitarian efforts, with the Kingdom's aviation sector recording more than 170 destinations worldwide and increased air cargo capacity (with growth reaching 35% during 2024). In a discussion session titled "Shaping the Future of Innovation and Investment," GACA's Executive Vice President for strategy and business intelligence, Eng. Mohammed bin Fahad Al-Khuraisi, explained that the National Aviation Strategy focuses not only on infrastructure development but also seeks to transform the civil aviation sector into an engine for innovation, sustainability, and economic growth for the Kingdom and the world, enhancing the Kingdom's leadership role on the international stage." He addressed the National Aviation Strategy's targets, which aim to connect the Kingdom with more than 250 destinations and increase passenger numbers to 330 million annually. He pointed out that the strategy seeks to attract investments worth $100 billion in the civil aviation sector, including $50 billion for airports and $40 billion for new aircraft purchases, contributing to creating unprecedented opportunities for investment and growth through privatization and public-private partnerships. Eng. Al-Khuraisi reviewed the investment opportunities and incentives offered by the sector in the Kingdom and the latest developments in major civil aviation projects, including King Salman International Airport in Riyadh with its six runways, along with public-private partnerships to develop Abha, Taif, Hail, and Qassim International Airports. He also highlighted investment opportunities in cargo, logistics, advanced air mobility, commercial aviation, and enabling tourism and business sectors, which play prominent roles in the Kingdom's economy, through the launch of the general aviation roadmap aimed at providing advanced infrastructure, new aircraft, and enhanced services. The Saudi House pavilion reflects the Kingdom's growing role and effective influence in the international arena, serving as a platform connecting entrepreneurs, change-makers, and innovators to present strategic visions on key areas shaping our world's future. It's worth noting that the Saudi House initiative is organized by the Ministry of Economy and Planning with participation from various government entities and will hold several dialogue sessions to discuss the latest significant trends in social and economic transformation locally and internationally

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has issued its December classification of air transport service providers and airports to inform passengers about their performance and help them make informed choices. The monthly assessment is based on the number of complaints filed with GACA by travellers.  According to GACA, 1,074 complaints were filed by travellers on Saudi air carriers in December 2024. SAUDIA had the fewest complaints among the airlines, 20 per 100,000 travellers, and a complaint resolution rate of 99%. Flyadeal came second, with 21 complaints per 100,000 travellers and a resolution rate of 100%. Flynas came third with 24 complaints per 100,000 travellers and a resolution rate of 100%. The most common complaints in May were about luggage, flights, and tickets.  Among international airports with more than six million passengers annually, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah had the fewest complaints, 20 per 100,000 travellers, and a resolution rate of 96%.  Among international airports with less than six million passengers annually, Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport in Tabuk had the fewest complaints, one per 100,000 travellers, and a resolution rate of 100%.  Among domestic airports, Sharurah Domestic Airport had the fewest complaints, two per 100,000 passengers, and a resolution rate of 100%.  GACA reiterated that the monthly classification report aims to help passengers make informed choices, promote transparency, demonstrate its credibility and keenness to deal with travellers' complaints, stimulate fair competition, and develop and improve services.  According to the authority, multiple communication channels are open 24/7 to enable interaction with travellers and airport visitors. They are the call Center number 1929, WhatsApp service at 0115253333, email gaca-info@gaca.gov.sa, social media accounts, and GACA's website.  Through these channels, the authority receives complaints concerning boarding passes, employee behaviour, and services for persons with disabilities and limited mobility.  In support of its partners, the airports, GACA prepared a booklet containing guidelines on how to deal with traveller complaints. The booklet, which has been circulated among airport operators, sets out service agreements and the rules that must be adhered to for all types of complaints and inquiries.  The authority also trains, through regularly held workshops, employees of national airlines and ground service companies that deal directly with travellers on how to comply with passenger protection regulations.

His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Emir of Makkah Region, today honored the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) with the ‘Labaytum’ award for excellence in serving the Hajj pilgrims. The award was received by His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of GACA, at the fourth edition of the Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah. The honor was in recognition of GACA’s initiative to develop the regulatory framework for the ‘Passengers with No Bags' service, which was implemented by MATARAT Holding Company. The service had a positive impact in enhancing, facilitating and organizing the departure procedures for pilgrims during the Hajj and Umrah seasons. ‘Passengers with No Bags' aims to enable arriving and departing travelers to move without the hassle of transporting their luggage. This improves the travel experience and provides more comfort for the Hajj pilgrims, contributing to achieving the Kingdom’s vision to provide exceptional services to Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. In addition, a memorandum of understanding was signed at the event in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Makkah Al-Mukarramah Region; His Excellency Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister of Hajj and Umrah; His Excellency Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation; and His Excellency Dr. Abdulfattah bin Suleiman Mashat, the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, to facilitate and streamline the air travel departure procedures for the guests of God. The memorandum is part of the joint cooperation between government agencies to achieve common goals in serving the guests of God and setting a general framework for joint efforts, activities, and missions. It is worth noting that GACA is participating within the Transport System Pavilion at the fourth edition of the Hajj Conference and Exhibition 2025 held under the slogan ‘A Passage to Nusuk.’ The event is organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, in Jeddah Superdome, from January 13 to 16. GACA’s participation aims to enhance cooperation with relevant government agencies through integration, empowerment, and communication to provide a smooth and distinctive experience for Hajj pilgrims.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) committee responsible for reviewing violations of the Civil Aviation Bylaw issued its report for 2024, which shows it levied 542 fines worth SAR18,892,200 on entities and individuals violating the said bylaw and the executive regulations and instructions issued by the authority.  According to the report, 111 violations were recorded against airlines for non-adherence to the authority's instructions, including those pertaining to the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) and time-slot adherence. These violations resulted in a total fine of SAR3,650,000. Nine additional violations were observed, leading to total fines of SAR290,000.  Furthermore, 305 violations were recorded for airlines not complying with the Passenger Rights Protection Regulation, resulting in total fines of SAR14,425,000. Seventeen violations were imposed on licensed companies failing to comply with GACA’s instructions and civil aviation regulations, resulting in total fines of SAR175,000. Two violations were issued against two companies for failure to comply with the provisions of the licenses issued by GACA, resulting in total fines of SAR40,000.  The report showed that the committee issued 92 violations against individuals, including 15 violations related to the use of drones without obtaining a permit from the authority, resulting in total fines of SAR75,000.  Additionally, 74 violations were related to passengers' failure to comply with aviation safety instructions and inappropriate behavior on board, resulting in a total fine of SAR79,200. Three violations were related to trespassing in restricted airport areas in violation of the authority's regulations, resulting in total fines of SAR3,000. Finally, six violations were issued against individuals for operating gliders without a permit, resulting in total fines of SAR155,000.  The authority pointed out that these measures are part of its commitment to working transparently, and said its regulatory and supervisory role in the aviation sector helps improve passenger experience and the quality of air transport services in the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) is participating in the Hajj Conference and Exhibition 2025, held in the Jeddah Superdome from January 13 to 16. The fourth edition of this conference is organized by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah under the slogan "A Passage to Nusuk". GACA can be found in the Transportation System booth. GACA official spokesperson Ibtisam bin Hassan Al-Shahri stated that participation in this global event will bolster GACA’s cooperation with various relevant government agencies via integration, empowerment and communication, enhancing services to Hajj pilgrims to provide a smooth and distinctive experience. During the conference, GACA will showcase its programs and initiatives to serve Hajj pilgrims in the Kingdom's airports, along with its innovative technical solutions and digital platforms in the context of the KSA’s expanding air traffic, with the aim of improving services in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, Al-Shahri said. The Hajj Conference and Exhibition 2025 brings together more than 300 entities over four days, spotlighting cutting-edge technical solutions and services in its effort to build bridges of cooperation between various stakeholders in the Hajj and Umrah system, and highlighting new developments that improve the experience of Hajj pilgrims. The conference features almost fifty discussion sessions and fifty workshops led by over 130 local and international experts, addressing the issue of sustainability and reviewing environmentally friendly technologies to support the Hajj journey. The conference will also address the use of AI for crowd management, innovative digital solutions, and commercial opportunities for emerging companies and innovators in the Hajj sector.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) announced that the civil aviation sector in Saudi Arabia experienced exceptional growth in 2024, achieving record-breaking milestones in passenger numbers, flight operations, air connectivity, and air cargo volume. This announcement was made during the 15th meeting of the Steering Committee for the implementation of the Saudi Aviation Strategy, held today in Riyadh. The meeting was attended by His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the Board of Directors of GACA, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, and chaired by His Excellency the President of GACA, Mr. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej. Also in attendance were His Excellency the Chairman of the Saudi Royal Aviation Board, Mr. Mohammed bin Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri; His Excellency the Assistant Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, Mr. Ahmed Al-Hassan; Assistant Minister for Sports Affairs, Ms. Adwaa bint Abdulrahman Al-Arifi; along with vice presidents, CEOs, officials, and directors representing national airlines and companies operating in the Kingdom’s civil aviation sector. During the meeting, participants celebrated Saudi Arabia's successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. They emphasized the Kingdom’s preparedness to welcome fans, including for other major events such as the 2027 AFC Asian Cup and Expo 2030. The meeting also marked the fourth anniversary of the launch of the Saudi Aviation Strategy. On this occasion, Eng. Al-Jasser highlighted the substantial support and empowerment the aviation and air transport sector in Saudi Arabia receives from His Royal Highness the Crown Prince. He praised the achievements of the Saudi Aviation Strategy, driven by the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. He explained that preliminary figures for the aviation sector in 2024 showed a 15% increase in passenger numbers, reaching over 128 million passengers—a 24% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels. Flight operations grew by 11%, totaling more than 902,000 flights. Air connectivity expanded by 16%, connecting Saudi Arabia to 172 destinations worldwide. Air cargo volume also witnessed exceptional growth of 34%, surpassing 1 million tons for the first time in 2024. Al-Jasser congratulated the entire sector on these significant and diverse achievements made possible by the support of the wise leadership. He stressed the importance of complete readiness across all sectors of the transport and logistics system and early preparation for this exceptional event, to deliver a unique Saudi experience. For his part, the President of GACA stated that the success achieved over the past year is a result of the collaborative efforts of all workers in the sector. He noted that Saudi civil aviation recorded remarkable growth during 2023 and 2024, making significant strides in air connectivity, passenger numbers, and air cargo services. He said, "This progress reflects the commitment of the Saudi aviation system to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 in the aviation sector through the Saudi Aviation Strategy, which is derived from the National Transport and Logistics Strategy." He pointed out that the aviation sector has achieved unprecedented accomplishments since the Council of Ministers approved the Saudi Aviation Strategyfour years ago. This strategy has been a driving force for transformation, contributing to growth and innovation and reinforcing the sector’s global leadership. In conclusion, His Excellency described the accomplishments of the strategy over the past four years as exceptional by all standards, affirming the sector’s capability to drive economic growth and enhance air connectivity between Saudi Arabia and the world in the coming decade. The Kingdom’s civil aviation sector has witnessed remarkable progress since the launch of the Saudi Aviation Strategyfour years ago. This includes the privatization of airports and their transfer to the ownership of the Airports Holding Company, the establishment of Riyadh Air, the launch of the master plan for King Salman International Airport and the master plan for the new Abha International Airport, and the inauguration of the Integrated Logistics Zone in Riyadh—the Kingdom’s first fully integrated special logistics zone. Additionally, major global companies have been attracted to the zone and granted business licenses, including Apple, Chalhoub Group, iHerb, and Korea's CJ Logistics. The launch of the zone’s digital platform, a new passenger rights regulation, and the largest reform in the aviation sector's economic regulations in 15 years are also among the major achievements. Moreover, the Saudi Civil Aviation Environmental Sustainability Program was launched and activated, along with the release of two roadmaps for Advanced Air Mobility and General Aviation. Saudi Arabia also achieved a 94.4% score in the aviation security audit, securing seventh place among G20 countries in aviation security and ranking 18th and 13th in international air connectivity over the past two years, compared to 27th place in 2018, according to the Air Connectivity Index report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The 15th Steering Committee meeting for implementing the Saudi Aviation Strategy also witnessed the participation of leaders from the Kingdom’s sports and tourism sectors, including the team responsible for Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the World Cup. Discussions focused on the role of the civil aviation sector in preparing for the Kingdom’s hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup and other major global events to be held in Saudi Arabia over the next decade.

His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), met the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to the Kingdom, Dr. Mukhtar Kedir Abdu, at the St. Regis Hotel in Riyadh today. During the meeting, both sides reviewed topics of mutual interest and discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the two countries in the field of air transport.