Major international companies to design and develop the facility
Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector is
set for a major boost with the development of the new Taif International
Airport, one of the Kingdom’s most prominent infrastructure projects under Vision 2030. Led by Matarat Holding in partnership with the
National Center for
Privatization & PPP (NCP), the project has drawn strong international
interest. Located around 21 kilometres southeast of the existing Taif airport,
the new facility will feature state-of-the-art infrastructure and is designed
to handle up to 2.5 million passengers annually by 2030, reinforcing Saudi
Arabia’s position as a regional tourism and logistics hub.
Global competition intensifies
The race to deliver Taif’s new
international gateway has attracted a highly competitive pool of global airport
developers and operators. More than 90 companies, including 46 Saudi firms,
participated in the prequalification process. Shortlisted bidders include major
international players such as India’s GMR and Bengaluru International Airport
Limited, Turkey’s TAV Airports, and Ireland’s daa International. The selected
entity will design, build and operate the airport under a 30-year
Build-Transfer-Operate (BTO) model.
The project scope includes the
construction of new runways, taxiways, aircraft stands, a modern passenger
terminal and all supporting operational facilities. Together, these elements
form a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to expand and modernise
its aviation infrastructure.
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Aligned with Vision 2030 objectives
The Taif International Airport
project is closely aligned with the Kingdom’s National Transport and Logistics
Strategy and National Aviation Strategy, which aim to position Saudi Arabia as
a global aviation and logistics hub linking Africa, Asia and Europe. By
enhancing regional connectivity and capacity, the airport supports rising air
traffic volumes and the growth of tourism across the Kingdom.
The development also reflects the
government’s wider push to privatise state-owned airports and improve passenger
experience standards. Beyond aviation, the project is expected to generate
significant economic benefits, including job creation, private-sector
investment and accelerated development in the Taif region.
Next steps in development
The next phase will see the
selection of a preferred bidder from the qualified consortia and the standalone
contender, GMR. The successful bidder will be responsible for construction and
for operating the airport over the next three decades. Once operational, the
airport is expected to accommodate both domestic and international services,
significantly expanding Saudi Arabia’s aviation capacity.
Future flight connectivity
Although final flight schedules are
yet to be announced, Taif International Airport is expected to primarily serve
domestic routes linking the city with Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. International
services to destinations across the Middle East, Africa and Asia are also
anticipated, supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambition to strengthen its global
aviation footprint.
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Given its proximity to the holy
cities of Makkah and Madinah, the airport is expected to play an important role
in religious tourism, with strong demand for routes to cities such as Cairo,
Amman and Dubai. Its strategic location, just 21 kilometres from Taif, further
enhances its appeal to airlines and passengers alike.
Modern passenger experience
The new airport will offer a modern
passenger terminal built to international standards, featuring streamlined
check-in, advanced baggage handling systems and efficient boarding processes.
These enhancements aim to deliver a seamless and comfortable travel experience
for domestic and international travellers.
A catalyst for aviation growth
The Taif International Airport
project represents a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s drive to become a
global aviation powerhouse. By attracting leading international developers and
operators, the Kingdom is ensuring the delivery of a world-class facility that
meets global benchmarks.
Beyond improving connectivity, the
project underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to infrastructure development,
privatisation and economic diversification under Vision 2030. Upon completion
in 2030, the new Taif International Airport is set to transform the region’s
aviation landscape and strengthen the Kingdom’s links with the world.
Source: travelandtourworld.com
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