Business jet activity in Saudi Arabia jumped a record 24% last year, the General Authority of Civil Aviation announced today at the 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Movements rose from around 19,000 in 2023 to more than 23,600 in 2024, with domestic flights up 26%, to 9,200, and international trips rising 15%, to 14,400. Business jet traffic at major airport hubs in Jeddah, Riyadh, and Dammam climbed 30%, 22%, and 7%, respectively.

GACA said tourism destinations Sindalah, Red Sea, and Al Ula were popular new locations for business, while events such as the Future Investment Initiative conference and Formula One Grand Prix in Jeddah also supported the record growth.

“A thriving business jet sector is essential to support Saudi Arabia’s luxury tourism and business sectors,” said Mohammed Alkhuraisi, GACA’s executive v-p of strategy and business. “To build on the record business jet growth achieved in 2024, an unprecedented investment program is underway to ensure the Kingdom offers unparalleled business jet aviation infrastructure and services.”

Last year, GACA announced plans worth $2 billion for six dedicated private airports and a further nine private terminals at other facilities, with FBOs and MROs also set to increase in number. Last month, Jetex reached an agreement to develop and operate the sole FBO at Red Sea International Airport (OERS) on Saudi Arabia’s west coast.