Saudi Arabia is embarking on the construction of one of the globe’s most expansive airports.
Nestled in Riyadh, the King Salman International Airport will feature an impressive array of six parallel runways, poised to accommodate a staggering 120 million passengers annually. This ambitious project positions it as the world’s largest airport in terms of passenger volume.
Although the airport has yet to receive an official IATA code, its grand opening is anticipated by 2030. The Saudi Infrastructure Expo predicts that this aviation hub will significantly boost annual passenger traffic within the kingdom from the current 29 million to an impressive 120 million travelers by 2030, and a projected 185 million by 2050. Furthermore, aircraft movements are set to soar, transitioning from 211,000 to over 1 million flights per year upon the airport’s inauguration.
The bidding process for securing construction contractors commenced in November 2023. Recently, on February 29, 2024, MEED (Middle East Economic Digest) reported that UK-based construction firm Mace Group secured the pivotal role of delivery partner for King Salman International Airport.
Mace brings extensive expertise in airport construction and maintenance, including a 30-year contract at London-Heathrow Airport (LHR). Their services for the Saudi airport encompass project management, design coordination, cost consulting, and procurement advice.
Simultaneously, UK-based architectural firm Foster + Partners clinched the bid to design the airport’s master plan. Foster + Partners will shape the airport’s buildings, while US-based design firm Jacobs will oversee infrastructure planning.
Anticipated to generate approximately 150,000 jobs upon operation, King Salman International Airport is poised to redefine air travel. Notably, Saudi Arabia already boasts the world’s current largest airport by size, King Fahd International Airport (DMM)—which currently handles around 10 million passengers annually.
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