Taif International Airport To Propel Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Aviation Goals To New Heights

Published on December 26, 2025

The new Taif International Airport, which is one of the significant developments in Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry, has attracted a great deal of global attention. Matarat Holding of Saudi Arabia has been the leader of the project in conjunction with the National Center for Privatization & PPP (NCP). The future airport, equipped with all modern facilities, will be positioned merely 21 km southeast of the old Taif airport. Upon its completion, it will be capable of receiving 2.5 million travelers a year by 2030, thereby strengthening Saudi Arabia’s standing as a major logistics and tourism attraction.

The Global Competitors: Who’s in the Running?

A highly competitive field of global players is now vying for the contract to build Taif’s new international airport. The prequalification process attracted over 90 companies, including 46 local firms. Among the shortlisted contenders are leading airport construction groups from around the world, including India’s GMR, Bengaluru International Airport Limited, Turkey’s TAV Airports, and Ireland’s daa International. These companies are all vying for the opportunity to design, build, and operate the airport under a Build-Transfer-Operate (BTO) model for a 30-year period.

The project’s scope will include the construction of new runways, taxiways, aircraft stands, a passenger terminal, and all necessary facilities required to ensure smooth airport operations. This ambitious project is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify its economy and bolster the aviation sector.

The Role of Vision 2030 in Taif’s New Airport Development

The establishment of Taif International Airport plays a key role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy. The Kingdom’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy and National Aviation Strategy aim to transform Saudi Arabia into a global logistics and aviation hub connecting Africa, Asia and Europe. This strategic airport project aligns with these goals by improving connectivity and providing modern infrastructure to cater to growing air traffic and tourism demand in the region.

As part of the broader initiative, the Saudi government aims to privatize several state-owned airports and improve the aviation experience for passengers, both domestic and international. The new airport will not only serve as a critical link in Saudi Arabia’s air transport network but also provide ample opportunities for job creation, investment, and economic growth, particularly in the region surrounding Taif.

What’s Next for Taif International Airport?

The next stage in the Taif International Airport development will see the selection of a winning bidder from the qualified consortia and the standalone company, GMR. The selected bidder will be responsible for carrying out the construction, as well as operating the airport for the next three decades. With the potential to significantly boost the Kingdom’s aviation capacity, this airport is expected to cater to both domestic flights and international services, linking Taif with key global destinations.

Flights Expected to Operate from the New Airport

Once operational, Taif International Airport will play a crucial role in enhancing connectivity for the city and surrounding regions. Although specific flight schedules have yet to be confirmed, it is anticipated that the airport will primarily serve domestic routes, connecting Taif to major Saudi cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Additionally, international flights to regional destinations in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia are expected to follow, supporting Saudi Arabia’s goal of becoming a key player in global aviation.

The new airport’s strategic location, just 21 km from the city, makes it an attractive option for both passengers and airlines. It is expected to serve as an important gateway for religious tourism, with flights to and from cities such as Cairo, Amman, and Dubai, particularly popular for those travelling to and from the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

As part of the airport’s modern infrastructure, passengers will also benefit from enhanced services, including streamlined check-in processes, cutting-edge baggage handling, and seamless boarding experiences. The airport will boast a modern passenger terminal with facilities designed to meet international standards, ensuring a comfortable travel experience for all who pass through it.

Why This Project is Important for Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Industry

The Taif International Airport project is a key element in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to bolster its global position as an aviation powerhouse. Not only will it create a vital transport link for millions of passengers, but it will also serve as a testament to the country’s commitment to infrastructure development and privatization in line with Vision 2030.

By opening the bidding process to international and regional construction giants, Saudi Arabia is ensuring that the airport will meet global standards, positioning it as a major hub for air travel in the Middle East and beyond. Moreover, this project will contribute to the Kingdom’s economic diversification plans by attracting international investors and providing substantial employment opportunities in the region.

What Lies Ahead for Taif International Airport

The construction of the new Taif International Airport is a game-changer for the region, providing enhanced aviation infrastructure that will serve both domestic and international flights. With global construction giants such as GMR, TAV, and daa International now in the race for the contract, Saudi Arabia is poised to establish a modern, world-class airport that will support the country’s growing tourism and business sectors.

During the auction process, one of the main doubts will be about which company or consortium gets the contract. With the airport’s completion in 2030, Taif will be able to serve its high-capacity modern terminals and connect the Kingdom to the rest of the world, thus playing an important role in this global interaction.