Riyadh: A new airport is coming in Saudi Arabia to join the list of the world’s largest airports. Crown Prince and Prime Minister and Chairman of the Council for Economic Affairs and Development (CEDA) and the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Amir Mohammed bin Salman on Monday announced the master plan for King Salman International Airport, which will become is the hub of Riyadh.
The proposed airport will facilitate international travel to and from the Saudi capital, enhance Riyadh’s position as a global hub for the movement of cargo, and boost trade and tourism. The airport will be transformed into a bridge connecting East and West. The airport project aims to make Riyadh one of the top 10 urban economies in the world.
The airport project is in line with Saudi Arabia’s ‘Vision’ plan to transform Riyadh into a city with a population of between one and a half to two million by 2030. Six new runways will be built parallel to the existing runways of King Khalid Airport and new terminals will be built near the existing terminals. The new airport, named after the current ruler, will be one of the largest in the world with an area of approximately 57 square kilometres. The 12 sq km area will house airport support facilities, accommodation and entertainment facilities, retail shops, cargo clearance transfer systems and real estate offices.
(Crown Amir Mohammed bin Salman makes announcement regarding King Salman International Airport)
The airport will benefit 12 crore passengers every year by 2030 and 18.5 crore passengers by 2050. The airport will have a cargo handling capacity of 35 lakh tonnes. Hassle-free travel, world-class and efficient airport operations will be the hallmarks. The airport has been designed with Riyadh’s distinctiveness and Saudi culture in mind to ensure a unique travel experience for Saudi visitors and transit passengers. The airport will achieve ‘Platinum Lead’ accreditation for incorporating first class green initiatives. Also, the airport will run on renewable energy.
Officials expect the new airport to contribute Rs 27,000 crore annually to the country in non-oil revenue, in line with ‘Vision 2030’ goals. It is also expected to create 10,30,00 direct and indirect jobs. The announcement of the airport by the Chairman Crown Prince is also part of the efforts of the Public Investment Fund to diversify the economy.
