Saudi Arabia is swiftly emerging as a highly sought-after tourist destination globally. In response to this growing demand, the aviation industry is also experiencing rapid growth and development year after year. Since aviation is among the most environmentally harmful sectors, investing in technologies that can effectively mitigate carbon emissions from this industry is crucial. This step is essential to transform Vision 2030 into a tangible reality.

According to a report by the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center, implementing such technologies can enhance the Kingdom’s aviation sector while simultaneously meeting the requirements of tourists.

Abdulrahman Alwosheel, a research associate at KAPSRC and co-author of the report, said that as the Kingdom enjoys a strategic geopolitical location, it is key to connecting Asia Pacific to Europe and America, becoming a global logistics hub. This has also been envisaged in its Vision 2030.

In addition, he emphasized the significance of improving infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, investing in innovation and technology, fostering a skilled workforce, and promoting tourism as crucial elements for the aviation industry to accomplish the objectives outlined in Vision 2030. The report further highlighted that these factors are essential for enhancing the sector’s efficiency and attracting more tourists to the Kingdom.

The National Tourism Strategy of Saudi Arabia has set a target to attract 100 million visitors by 2030, projected to contribute to 10% of the Kingdom’s GDP.