Saudi Arabia’s Aviation and Logistics Sectors Soar with Vision 2030 Reforms

Saudi Arabia’s aviation and logistics sectors posted record growth in 2024, with airports across the Kingdom handling 128 million passengers — a 45.8 percent increase since the launch of Vision 2030 in 2016, according to the latest annual report.

Throughout 2024, Saudi airports operated 905,000 flights and managed 1.2 million tonnes of cargo, reflecting the country’s rapid progress toward becoming a global hub for business, tourism, and logistics. Strengthening the transport sector is a central pillar of Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s sweeping plan to diversify its economy and enhance international connectivity.

“Saudi Arabia is transforming its transport ecosystem, positioning itself as a global logistics and aviation hub by 2030,” the report stated.

The Kingdom made significant strides last year by launching over 60 new air routes under its Air Connectivity Program, which has been instrumental in expanding links to international destinations since its 2021 inception. Twelve new international airlines also began operations in Saudi cities in 2024, further boosting global connectivity.

Innovation in transport also took center stage, with Saudi Arabia debuting the region’s first autonomous air taxi pilot project during the Hajj season. The air taxis were used to ferry pilgrims between holy sites and assist in emergency responses, marking a major milestone in smart mobility. Additionally, Saudi authorities issued the first operational license for drones dedicated to cleaning building facades.

In logistics, Saudi Arabia ranked first regionally and 20th globally in handling commercial tonnage. The Kingdom’s Logistics Performance Index ranking rose to 38th globally, up from 52nd in 2016. Key developments included the launch of the $346.6 million Maersk Logistics Hub at Jeddah Islamic Port and the addition of 34 new maritime services across major ports. The Saudi Ports Authority, known as Mawani, was recognized with the International Finance Award for infrastructure development.

Further highlighting its growing global influence, Saudi Arabia secured membership in the Council of the International Transport Forum. Meanwhile, the master plan for an integrated logistics zone at King Salman International Airport received approval, reinforcing ambitions to become a world-class logistics center.

The rail sector also saw strong gains, with 13 million passengers traveling via the national rail network — a 22 percent increase from the previous year — and freight movement reaching 28 million tonnes. The launch of the Riyadh Metro, one of the world’s largest urban transit projects spanning 176 kilometers, added another boost, transporting 1.9 million passengers in its first week of operation.

These achievements underscore Saudi Arabia’s accelerating journey toward Vision 2030 goals, aiming to cement its place as a leader in global transport and logistics.