Malham Airport approved to join Saudi Arabia's expanding aviation network
RIYADH: Malham Airport is set to begin serving the Saudi public after the General Authority of Civil Aviation approved the site to be added to the Kingdom's air transport network.
The facility has been designated a specialized general aviation airport, a move that aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's goals to transform the Kingdom into a global nexus for business and tourism.
Situated approximately 70 km north of downtown Riyadh and spanning 1.44 million sq. meters, the facility is built to accommodate over 25,000 flights per year.
The airport will serve as a comprehensive hub, offering integrated services aimed at attracting investors, nurturing local talent, and reinforcing the Kingdom's position in the global aviation industry.
Located in a rapidly developing region, the facility benefits from proximity to major international events such as the World Defense Exhibition and the LEAP Tech Conference.
This development is part of a broader strategy to diversify the Kingdom's economy, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and strengthen its logistics and connectivity framework.
The announcement comes amid a period of unprecedented growth for Saudi Arabia's aviation industry.
In 2024, the sector achieved record-breaking milestones, including a surge in passenger traffic, the expansion of airline fleets, and the launch of Riyadh Air— the Kingdom's newest flagship carrier, which recently secured its Air Operator Certificate.
Backed by the Public Investment Fund, Riyadh Air aims to connect over 100 international destinations by 2030, contributing an estimated $20 billion to the national economy.
Saudi Arabia's aviation strategy is a cornerstone of Vision 2030, with targets to serve 330 million passengers across 250 destinations and transport 4.5 million tonnes of air cargo annually by the end of the decade.
Speaking in February, GACA's President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej stressed the importance of continuing to develop local aviation expertise, noting that GACA's human capital development strategy estimates that the Kingdom's aviation sector will require 274,000 direct jobs by 2030 — up from the current 104,000 jobs.
Al-Duailej reaffirmed the commitment to building a strong and sustainable aviation industry, ensuring the Kingdom remains at the forefront of global aviation development.
Saudi Arabia is also investing billions in infrastructure in the aviation sector, including the development of King Salman International Airport.
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