Saudi Arabia is rapidly advancing its aviation sector through a new partnership with Boeing in advanced air mobility. Moreover, the agreement seeks to explore investments, technology transfer, and industry innovation. Consequently, officials from Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation sector signed a memorandum of understanding with Boeing in Washington, D.C.
The deal clearly emphasizes Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advanced air mobility. For instance, Sulaiman Al-Muhaimidi, GACA’s executive vice president for Aviation Safety and Environmental Sustainability, explained that the partnership reflects the Kingdom’s goal to create safer, smarter skies. Additionally, he noted that advanced air mobility will help Saudi Arabia lead the future of aviation.
During the visit, the Saudi delegation toured Boeing’s headquarters. They also explored the Dreamliner assembly facility in Charleston, South Carolina. Furthermore, the delegation met the Federal Aviation Administration to discuss regulations and collaboration. In addition, they focused on civil aviation, aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, sustainability, and advanced technologies initiatives.
Saudi Arabia aims to become a global hub for business, tourism, and logistics. Meanwhile, the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 agenda seeks to attract millions of tourists and expand aviation’s contribution to the economy. Therefore, GACA plans to double passenger capacity to over 330 million annually and increase cargo handling to 4.5 million tonnes. Clearly, advanced air mobility plays a central role in achieving these ambitious goals.
Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, president of GACA, stated that engaging with global aviation leaders strengthens Saudi Arabia’s connectivity across three continents. Moreover, he highlighted that new airlines, record aircraft orders, and sustainability initiatives create unprecedented opportunities. Accordingly, collaboration with Boeing reinforces Saudi–US aviation relations.
Riyadh Air, the Kingdom’s second flag carrier, plans to begin operations soon. Consequently, the airline expects to contribute billions to non-oil GDP and create over 200,000 jobs. Furthermore, Riyadh Air will introduce new international routes regularly, beginning with deliveries of Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Currently, four Dreamliners are in various stages of assembly in Charleston.
Additionally, Riyadh Air announced plans to purchase up to 50 Airbus A350 long-range aircraft. Deliveries will start in 2030, further expanding the airline’s international network. In this context, advanced air mobility continues to support these strategic aviation developments and the Kingdom’s long-term growth.
Overall, this partnership demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s vision for a future-focused aviation sector. By collaborating with global leaders like Boeing, the Kingdom ensures innovation, safety, and connectivity. Consequently, advanced air mobility emerges as a central theme in transforming the country into a global aviation hub.
