Saudi Arabia to Launch Two New Airlines as Part of Vision 2030 Plan

Saudi Arabia is expanding its aviation sector with plans for two additional airlines, bringing the total number of carriers to seven as part of its ambitious Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy. Speaking at the Cityscape Global conference, Saudi Tourism Authority CEO Fahd Hamidaddin revealed the expansion plans, which complement existing carriers Saudia, Riyadh Air, flynas, and flyadeal. One confirmed carrier will be a low-cost airline based at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, operated by a consortium led by UAE-based Air Arabia. The airline plans to deploy 45 aircraft by 2030, serving 24 domestic and 57 international destinations. Reports suggest the second new airline will focus on religious tourism, though details remain limited. The ambitious expansion underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to reducing oil dependency and establishing itself as a major aviation hub and tourist destination in the Middle East.