King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has inaugurated International Terminal 2 and announced the completion of the development project for International Terminals 1 and 2, increasing the complex’s annual capacity to approximately 14 million passengers, compared to 6 million previously, representing growth of more than 130%. This development enhances the airport’s readiness to accommodate the rapid growth in international air traffic.
The project included upgrading operational infrastructure, expanding departure and arrival facilities, modernizing operating systems, and improving passenger flow routes to enhance procedural efficiency and ensure smoother movement throughout both terminals, according to a post published by the Saudi Press Agency.
The President of the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation, Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, stated that the project represents a major milestone in developing King Khalid International Airport’s facilities by improving air operations efficiency and enhancing the passenger experience, in line with the objectives of the National Civil Aviation Strategy.
According to official data, King Khalid International Airport contributed approximately 2.2% to Riyadh’s GDP in 2024, equivalent to around SAR 22.5 billion. It also provided nearly 66,000 direct and indirect jobs, reflecting the airport’s growing economic role as a major air connectivity hub.
Regarding operational arrangements, International Terminal 1 has been designated for international flights operated by flyadeal and flynas, while International Terminal 2 will serve Saudia and Riyadh Air flights.
The departure areas across both terminals feature 114 passenger check-in counters, 43 passport control counters, and 20 electronic passport gates. Meanwhile, the arrival areas include 75 passport control counters and 22 electronic gates, in addition to 8 customs inspection machines, enhancing the airport’s ability to handle international passenger traffic with greater operational efficiency.
The completion of the development project for Terminals 1 and 2 comes as part of King Khalid International Airport’s comprehensive modernization program, which aims to increase operational capacity, improve service quality, and support future expansion in international air traffic in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
The inauguration of International Terminal 2 was attended by Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Riyadh Region; Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the General Authority of Civil Aviation Board, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser; President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej; CEO of Riyadh Airports Company Ayman Abu Abah; and several senior aviation and air transport officials.
To view the post on the Saudi Press Agency’s website, click here.
