GACA Moves Ahead On Planning For 2034 FIFA World Cup

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) announced record growth for the Kingdom’s aviation sector in 2024, including passenger numbers, flights, destinations, and cargo volume. Details were released at the 15th Aviation Sector Steering Committee in Riyadh and included the acceleration of planning for the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Passenger enplanements rose to 128 million, an increase of 15%, and 24% above the pre-pandemic levels. The number of flights increased to 902,000, an 11% increase.

Saudi airlines now fly to 172 global destinations per week, representing an increase of 16% in connectivity. The Kingdom’s cargo operations registered a massive increase in volume of 34% with over 1 million tons delivered.

H.E. Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister for Transport and Logistics Services, praised the results while also stressing the importance of the preparations for the World Cup.

He said, “Saudi aviation is achieving unprecedented growth, enabled by the National Transport and Logistics Strategy’s comprehensive infrastructure and investment agenda.  This growth is essential for supporting Saudi Arabia’s broader economic ambitions, as the Kingdom prepares to host the world over the coming decade.”

H.E. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of GACA, attributed the progress to efforts being unified within the sector.

He said, “Saudi aviation’s has achieved consecutive years of record growth in 2023 and 2024, soaring to new heights in connectivity, flights, and cargo services. This remarkable progress reflects the commitment of the entire Saudi aviation ecosystem to advancing the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 transformation agenda through the Saudi Aviation Strategy.”

FMI:  gaca.gov.sa/