The Saudi-American round table discusses opportunities for partnerships and exchange of experiences in the aviation industry

February 12, 2025

A high-level Saudi-US Advanced Air Mobility Roundtable has discussed ways to enhance economic ties in the air mobility sector, explore partnership opportunities, and exchange expertise in the air mobility industry and relevant services. The meeting also highlighted the sector’s strategic programs and initiatives aimed at advancing air mobility in line with the highest global standards and the Saudi Vision 2030.

 Held in Riyadh, the meeting brought together executive officials from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), 12 US companies specializing in advanced air mobility operating in Saudi Arabia, and representatives from government entities and the private sector. Participants included the Ministry of Investment, the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the Human Resources Development Fund, Advanced Electronics Company, Matarat Holding, and NEOM.

 The roundtable reviewed integrated logistics zones, the roadmap for advanced air mobility, and several successful trials conducted at multiple locations in the Kingdom. These include Saudi Arabia’s first successful vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) flight in NEOM in June 2023 and the successful air taxi trial during the Hajj season of 1445 AH.

 Moreover, the discussion covered GACA’s role in developing the civil aviation industry, investment opportunities in the sector, and key strategic programs such as the aviation sector’s objectives under the Saudi Vision 2030, the transformation program, infrastructure improvements, airport services enhancement, and the expansion of the airport network, leveraging the Kingdom’s unique geographic location connecting three continents.

 The meeting also highlighted civil aviation sector initiatives in Saudi Arabia, available investment and collaboration opportunities, the localization of advanced air mobility manufacturing, and the development of human capital in the sector.