Saudi Arabia is gaining popularity as a tourist destination — the country is predicted to attract over 30 million tourists by the end of the decade. As the kingdom moves to compete with regional transport and travel hubs, and to accommodate this growing demand, after the recently launched Riyadh Air, the country plans to launch more airlines. 

During the Paris Air Show, Saudi Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih told Al-Arabiya that new airlines would help the kingdom achieve its economic and strategic goals.

“The kingdom is a large country in size, population, economy, and tourism, deserving [of] a wide range of airlines. Currently, Saudi Arabia is served by prominent airlines such as Saudia, Flynas, and Riyadh Air, with more expected to be announced in the near future,” he said. However, the minister did not give an exact date for the new announcements. 

Speaking about the importance of Riyadh Air, Al-Falih said that the new national airline would contribute to supporting the kingdom’s strategies, especially in the tourism sector.

“Riyadh Air complements a lot of the kingdom’s strategies. It greatly contributes to Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector growth strategy by connecting Riyadh to the world’s capitals,” he said. 

He added that Riyadh needs new airlines that directly connect the capital with over 100 cities worldwide without any transit and improve logistical services in the country as they help distribute cargo, medicines, and industrial materials from the country.