VistaJet becomes first foreign operator for domestic Saudi flights
VistaJet, the first and only global private aviation company within the Vista group, has become the first foreign operator authorised to offer flights within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The agreement underscores VistaJet's commitment to dedicate its services and expertise to support the strategic objectives of the Kingdom, aligned with the vision and implementation of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).
Leveraging its fully-owned floating fleet, VistaJet is uniquely positioned to provide immediate private aviation services throughout the Kingdom while maintaining operational efficiency across its global operations. With the largest international fleet of Global 7500 aircraft, and soon Global 8000 jets, VistaJet clients can access any global destination non-stop directly from the Kingdom, benefiting from its central geographical location.
Nick van der Meer, chief operating officer at VistaJet, said: 'The approval and recognition from GACA marks a significant milestone for Vista's operations in the Kingdom. By expanding our domestic capabilities, we are not only strengthening our regional presence, but also amplifying the efficiency of our global fleet. We are proud to support Vision 2030 and grateful to the leadership and the GACA team for making this possible. This enables us to serve our clients with seamless access across the Kingdom and beyond, ensuring that every journey reflects Vista's commitment to reliability, consistency and world-class service.'
Saudi Arabia's aviation industry is undergoing historic transformation as a key pillar of Vision 2030. With ambitions to become a global hub for travel, trade, and investment, the Kingdom and GACA are modernising aviation infrastructure, regulations, and innovation, connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe more efficiently than ever. VistaJet's operations are closely aligned with this vision, providing advanced, sustainable, and interconnected flying solutions globally, with unmatched flexibility and value.
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Having operated in the market for more than 15 years—longer than any other international operator—VistaJet continues to add significant value to the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia has emerged as a key growth market, with the first half of 2025 seeing a 32 per cent increase in VistaJet Program Members year-over-year, reflecting rising demand for domestic and global travel solutions among local and international clients.
Mazen Obaid, president — Middle East at VistaJet, commented: 'We are delighted to be working with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and GACA, reinforcing our commitment to offering clients reliable, flexible and trusted flying solutions through our global and regional infrastructure. As a Saudi myself, I am extremely proud and excited for this new venture, and of all the opportunities that I know we can achieve together. We thank the Kingdom and its leadership for its dynamic Vision 2030, and we very much look forward to hiring many local experts and investing locally.'
For more than two decades, VistaJet has transformed private aviation, flying clients to over 200 countries and territories with a fleet of more than 270 business jets, spanning super-midsize to global range aircraft, including the flagship Global 7500.
This announcement follows VistaJet's successful closing of an Equity and Term Loan B transaction totaling $1.3bn in Q1 2025, demonstrating strong market confidence in its strategy and long-term vision. With expanded operations, enhanced services, and growth in emerging markets, VistaJet's partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and GACA represents a major milestone, strengthening its position in a critical market.
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