Saudi Arabia records a record growth in air traffic in 2023

Riyadh, April 16, 2024

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) issued the air traffic performance report today, which revealed that in 2023, air traffic in Saudi Arabia saw unprecedented growth. Approximately 112 million people traveled through various airports across the Kingdom, both domestically and internationally. The number reflects a growth rate of 26 percent compared to  2022, and more than 8 percent compared to 2019. The rise in travelers confirms the recovery of the transportation sector following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The GACA report additionally revealed that the number of flights through the Kingdom’s airports during 2023 reached about 815,000 flights – an increase of 16 percent compared to 2022.

Saudi Arabia witnessed record growth on international travel during the past year, with about 61 million passengers and more than 394,000 flights. King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah topped the list of major Saudi airports in terms of flight numbers, with an average of 30 flights per hour. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh came in second place with 27 flights per hour. King Fahd International Airport in Dammam came in third, with 11 flights per hour.

Domestic flights in 2023 also saw a noticeable rise in the numbers of travelers and flights, with total passengers reaching about 51 million, and flights amounting to more than 421,000 from various airports in the Kingdom.

The volume of air freight at Saudi airports during the year 2023 witnessed a growth of more than 7 percent, with a total of about 918,000 tons transported, compared to 854,000 tons in 2022.

GACA is the air transport sector’s regulating body. It is responsible for setting the sector’s executive regulations and following up on their implementation with the relevant authorities. Overall, GACA contributes to improving the quality of air transport services and improving the traveler experience. It works to shape the future of the sector to create a competitive and attractive investment environment, to be a pioneer in the Middle East and the world, and to help the sector achieve its goals of doubling capacity by 2030.