Saudi Arabia expands its aviation network with a new budget airline license for a carrier based in Dammam. The license allows the country to strengthen domestic connectivity and create more affordable flight options through a new low-cost airline.
Furthermore, this newly approved low-cost airline results from a joint venture between Air Arabia, KUN Investment Holding, and Nesma. The partnership combines their strengths to launch a new carrier based at King Fahd International Airport, operating 45 aircraft across 24 domestic and 57 international destinations.
In addition, the government’s budget airline license directly supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. It helps grow the non-oil economy while the new airline plans to carry 10 million passengers each year. It will also add over 2,400 direct jobs to the Eastern Province economy, proving the license’s importance.
Meanwhile, officials continue to improve infrastructure to support the launch of the newly licensed low-cost airline. The Eastern Province governor unveils updated master plans for King Fahd, Al-Ahsa, and Al-Qaisumah airports. He also presents a new brand identity for Dammam Airports Company to reflect the region’s expanding air travel activity.
Furthermore, a massive $426 million investment supports 77 airport projects linked to the budget airline license rollout. These projects aim to enhance capacity and improve passenger experiences as new flight routes open and more travelers fly through these terminals.
King Fahd International Airport, the main hub for this budget airline license, continues to grow. It handled 12 million passengers and over 99,000 flights in a year. The new airline helps meet rising demand and adds capacity for even more travelers.
Saudi Arabia also moves toward its long-term aviation targets supported by the budget airline license. The country aims to move 330 million passengers and 4.5 million tons of cargo each year. The newly licensed airline contributes to this national vision.
As a result, the budget airline license transforms Saudi Arabia’s air travel landscape. It enables affordable tickets, stronger competition, and new international connections. Each launch under this license supports the Kingdom’s goal to lead regional aviation.
