The second GATE delegation trip to Saudi Arabia since 2023 was a resounding success. After two intensive days at the Saudi Airport Expo 2024, GATE and the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Yemen (GESALO) organized a diverse and informative program.
Kickoff and Key Discussions
The trip began with a briefing from GESALO and the German Embassy, offering participants a comprehensive overview of the economic and political framework in Saudi Arabia. This was followed by discussions with key stakeholders in the aviation sector, including the Airport Holding Company Matarat, Riyadh Airport, and the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).
A particular highlight was the presentation of Matarat’s strategic direction. Under its Vision 2030 plan, Saudi Arabia aims to become one of the world’s leading aviation hubs, targeting 330 million passengers annually by 2030. The discussions focused on extensive development and expansion projects, including plans for the new King Salman Airport in Riyadh, envisioned as a mega hub.In the evening, the delegation traveled with Saudia Airlines to Jeddah, where participants gained further insights into the country’s aviation strategy.
Day Two: Visits and Future Plans
The second day began with visits to SAL and SGS, where the importance of innovation, development, and process optimization in alignment with Vision 2030 was emphasized. Both companies expressed strong interest in international collaboration to address future challenges. Jeddah Airport also showcased its ambitious plans in a concluding meeting. In addition to renovating Terminals 3 and 4 and expanding Terminal 1, significant investments are planned to boost capacity. The airport’s central role as a hub for Hajj pilgrims was particularly highlighted, presenting unique infrastructure requirements.
Conclusion of the Trip
The trip concluded with a group dinner, providing an opportunity to reflect on the experiences and insights gained.
The delegation trip highlighted Saudi Arabia’s tremendous potential as an emerging hub for the aviation industry. With ambitious projects and a clear vision for the future, the country offers exciting opportunities for international partnerships.
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