King Khalid International Airport Sees Record Growth and New Airlines

King Khalid International Airport (RUH), operated by Riyadh Airports Company, is experiencing remarkable growth, serving the Saudi capital and connecting over 50 international and domestic airlines to more than 100 destinations annually. The airport has seen a surge in passenger traffic, handling over 35 million travelers with double-digit year-on-year growth.

From January to September 2024, RUH reported a 29% increase in passenger numbers compared to pre-COVID levels, with a notable 46% rise in international passengers. This growth also reflects an 18% increase compared to the same period in 2023. July 2024 set a record for RUH with over 3.5 million passengers, followed by a single-day record on August 1 with more than 130,000 travelers.

The uptick in traffic is attributed to aggressive route development, which includes the addition of 15 new airlines and over 25 additional air services in 2024, including more than 10 new destinations. RUH was the first airport in the Middle East to achieve Welcome Chinese certification, enhancing air connectivity in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. This milestone has facilitated new services, such as Air China’s thrice-weekly flights between RUH and Beijing, and China Eastern Airlines’ direct flights from Shanghai.

Additionally, RUH welcomed Cathay Pacific’s service from Hong Kong on October 28, 2024, and European connectivity has expanded with ITA Airways commencing operations from Rome and LOT Polish Airlines launching nonstop flights from Warsaw in June.

Looking ahead, Virgin Atlantic plans to initiate daily flights from London Heathrow to RUH in 2025, anticipating a 24% increase in UK-Saudi Arabia air travel from 2019 to 2035. In 2023, flynas established links from RUH to Tivat, Montenegro, and Antalya, Turkey, and added service to Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai in September 2024.

The forthcoming launch of Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s second flag carrier, is expected to significantly enhance RUH’s international network.

Jacopo Tonucci, General Manager of Aeronautical Business Development at RUH, emphasized that these new air services reflect the airport’s ability to attract new airlines and its reputation as a reliable and growing hub. He sees further growth opportunities, especially in long-haul services to underserved and unserved routes.

RUH’s commitment to excellence is highlighted by its recognition from Airports Council International, achieving Airport Customer Experience Accreditation Level 3 and Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 3, showcasing advancements in customer service and environmental sustainability.

Riyadh Airports Company aims to continue supporting Vision 2030 targets, solidifying Saudi Arabia’s status as a key global destination.

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