Saudi Arabia Leads 12th Arab Aviation Summit 2025 In Riyadh As A Landmark Event For Global Aviation Growth

Published on February 7, 2025

Saudi Arabia hosts the 12th Arab Aviation Summit 2025 in Riyadh, bringing global leaders together to drive innovation, sustainability, and aviation growth.

The 12th Arab Aviation Summit (AAS) is set to take place on February 17-18, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Hosted by Abdulaziz bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Duailj, President of the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), this prestigious event will bring together global aviation leaders, industry experts, and policymakers to discuss the future of aviation in the Middle East and beyond.

The 2025 theme, “Uniting Leaders, Building Tomorrow: Advancing Global Aviation,” underscores Saudi Arabia’s rising influence in the aviation sector. Committed to infrastructure modernization, strategic policy enhancements, and technological innovation, the nation is paving the way for a transformative shift in the global aviation industry.

Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Vision: A $100 Billion Transformation

Saudi Arabia has emerged as a dominant force in the aviation industry, investing a staggering $100 billion to transform the sector. This strategic investment aligns with Vision 2030, the country’s ambitious roadmap for economic diversification, tourism growth, and infrastructure modernization.

The summit will explore how these investments are reshaping air connectivity, enabling new business opportunities, and driving sustainable aviation practices. GACA’s leadership has played a crucial role in enhancing airport capacity, improving airline operations, and integrating advanced technologies into the aviation sector.

Some key areas of focus at the 12th Arab Aviation Summit include:

• Infrastructure Expansion: Development of new airports, upgrading existing hubs, and increasing passenger capacity.
• Sustainability Initiatives: The push for green aviation, alternative fuel sources, and carbon reduction strategies.
• Digital Innovation: Implementation of AI-driven solutions, smart airport technologies, and automation in air traffic management.
• Regulatory Reforms: Policy changes aimed at fostering open skies agreements, air traffic liberalization, and improved safety measures.

Global Experts and Industry Leaders Set to Speak at AAS 2025

The 12th Arab Aviation Summit will feature an elite lineup of international and regional aviation leaders. These key industry figures will share insights on global trends, economic challenges, and the future of air travel.

Confirmed Speakers at AAS 2025:

• Elias Moreau – Regional President for Africa and the Middle East, Airbus
• Miguel Vasconcelos – State Secretary of Infrastructure, Government of Portugal
• Bulut Bagci – President, World Tourism Forum Institute
• Karim Al-Farsi – Secretary General, Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO)
• Omar El-Sayed – Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, IATA
• Steven Greenway – CEO, Fly A Deal
• Nasser Al-Fahad – CEO, Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP)
• Layla Al-Rashid – Vice President of Sustainability, Saudi Airlines
• Osamah Alnuaiser – Senior Vice President, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Riyadh Air
• Omar Al-Mansour – CEO, Lufthansa Technik Middle East
• Hamdi Osman – Founder & CEO, Solitair Holding
• Faisal Al-Harbi – General Manager for General Aviation, GACA

These experts will lead panel discussions and keynote sessions covering various aspects of the aviation industry, including:

• The Future of Airline Growth in the Middle East
• Sustainable Aviation and Environmental Responsibility
• The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Air Travel
• Aviation’s Contribution to Economic Growth in the Arab World
• The Expansion of Low-Cost Airlines and Air Connectivity

Saudi Arabia’s Role as a Global Aviation Hub

Saudi Arabia is rapidly positioning itself as an international aviation hub, with Riyadh emerging as a key business and tourism destination. Major initiatives like the Riyadh Air project and the expansion of King Abdulaziz International Airport are expected to boost air connectivity across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

The country’s aviation sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by:

• New Airline Launches: The introduction of new carriers such as Riyadh Air to enhance global connectivity.
• Airport Expansion Projects: Large-scale development of international airports, including the planned mega-airport in Riyadh.
• Tourism-Driven Air Travel: Saudi Arabia’s push to attract 100 million tourists annually by 2030 through enhanced air travel infrastructure.
• Sustainability in Aviation: Investments in green aviation solutions, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and eco-friendly airport designs.

Sustainability and Innovation: Key Highlights of AAS 2025

As the global aviation industry moves towards net-zero emissions, sustainability will be a key focus at the 12th Arab Aviation Summit. Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of green aviation initiatives, and the summit will highlight ongoing efforts to make air travel more eco-friendly.

Topics covered in sustainability sessions include:

• Alternative Fuels & Renewable Energy in Aviation
• Carbon Neutrality and Green Airports
• The Role of Technology in Reducing Aviation’s Environmental Impact
• Sustainable Tourism & Air Travel

Additionally, discussions will explore emerging technologies like AI-driven airport operations, biometric screening for seamless passenger experiences, and blockchain-based aviation security solutions.

Why Attend the 12th Arab Aviation Summit?

The Arab Aviation Summit is one of the most influential gatherings in the aviation sector. Attending the event provides:

• Exclusive Industry Insights: Hear from top aviation leaders on key trends shaping the industry.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry executives, government officials, and airline CEOs.
• Business Growth Potential: Explore investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector.
• Access to Cutting-Edge Innovations: Learn about the latest technological advancements in aviation.

Event Details and Registration

• Date: February 17-18, 2025
• Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Registration: Visit the official Arab Aviation Summit website to register.

The 12th Arab Aviation Summit promises to be a landmark event, shaping the future of aviation in the Middle East and beyond. With Saudi Arabia leading the charge in aviation growth and sustainability, Riyadh is the perfect host for this premier industry gathering.