Saudi Arabia Awards New Airline License to Air Arabia Led Group

Saudi Arabia –Air Arabia, the United Arab Emirates headquartered low-cost carrier group, has been selected as the lead operator in a consortium awarded the bid to launch Saudi Arabia’s newest low-cost airline, based at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam. The strategic development is part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy, enhance regional connectivity, and build a globally competitive aviation sector.

• The new airline is a joint venture between Air Arabia, Egypt's Nesma, and Jeddah-based Kun Investments Holding
• The carrier is set to operate a fleet of 45 aircraft by 2030.
• It will serve 24 domestic and 57 international destinations, with an annual target of 10 million passengers by 2030.
• The new airline will create over 2,400 direct jobs, supporting economic growth in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Region.
• The venture marks Air Arabia’s fifth airline partnership, expanding its low-cost carrier model already operational in Morocco, Egypt, Armenia, and Pakistan.

Statements

• "The new airline will enhance competition in the air transport market ... and expand air connectivity with countries worldwide, thereby supporting economic growth."– Saleh Al Jasser, Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services
• "This airline will contribute to enhancing connectivity for the Eastern Region, increasing seat capacity and providing competitive travel options for passengers."– Abdulaziz Al Duailej, President of GACA

Source: GACA