Saudi Arabian Airlines has partnered with Red Sea Global (RSG) and daa International to run flights to and from the soon-to-open Red Sea International Airport. On 12 September, the trio formally inked a memorandum of understanding, paving the way for SAUDIA to become the pioneer airline to operate at the awe-inspiring airport.
RSI, set to open its doors later this year alongside the first three luxurious resorts at The Red Sea destination, will initially cater to domestic flights between Riyadh and subsequently Jeddah. By 2024, it will spread its wings to serve international flights, offering a gateway to one of the world’s most captivating tourist destinations.
“In 2016, His Royal Highness, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, set out a vision for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A vision for a thriving country, one that was recognized as a global hub, where people from all around the world would come to experience the best of Saudi culture, hospitality, and nature,” expressed John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.
“As the first commercial flight touches down at Red Sea International, it won’t just be a moment of pride for Red Sea Global; it will signify a historic milestone for Saudi Arabia in realizing this grand vision. It’s only fitting that our nation’s flagship carrier, SAUDIA, leads the way in connecting the world to our extraordinary destination,” he added.
The historic agreement outlines SAUDIA’s initiation of regular scheduled services to and from RSI. Moreover, it establishes a framework for collaborative research on Lower Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF) and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) utilization at RSI. Evaluating the use of electric vertical take-off and landing jets (eVTOL) to minimize emissions and promote sustainable travel to The Red Sea is also on the agenda.
“Today’s agreement marks a pivotal chapter in Saudi Arabia’s aviation history. As an integral component of Vision 2030, SAUDIA is dedicated to facilitating the achievement of colossal projects, and our role as the inaugural airline to operate to and from Red Sea International Airport fills us with immense pride. This accord will strengthen our presence within the Kingdom and enable us to collaborate with RSG and daa International to boost tourism and elevate Saudi Arabia’s stature in the global aviation landscape,” stated Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of SAUDIA.
This partnership builds upon daa International’s existing collaboration with RSG as the operator of its International Airport. daa International will continue to oversee airport operations, working closely with SAUDIA on various activities such as gate and counter allocation.
“Red Sea International Airport represents a new gateway for travelers to immerse themselves in the wonders of Saudi Arabia. Leveraging our unmatched airport management expertise, we will collaborate with RSG and SAUDIA to ensure RSI delivers an unparalleled experience for all who pass through its doors,” affirmed Mr. Nicholas Cole, CEO of daa International.
As The Red Sea’s three resorts, alongside the initial phase of Red Sea International Airport, welcome visitors this year, an additional 13 hotels are set to join in the first phase. Upon its full completion in 2030, this remarkable destination will encompass 50 resorts, boasting over 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also feature opulent marinas, golf courses, entertainment, delectable dining options, and a plethora of leisure facilities. This visionary project stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a global tourism and aviation leader.
