Prime Highlights:
Inauguration of Terminal 1 expansion at King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh.
The expansion boosts annual passenger capacity from 3 million to 7 million.
Expanded Capacity and Modernization of King Khalid International Airport.
Key Background:
The first phase of the expansion of Terminal 1 at King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) in Riyadh was officially inaugurated on January 8, 2025, significantly increasing the airport’s capacity to accommodate up to 7 million passengers annually. This landmark project is a key component of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to enhance its transportation infrastructure as part of Vision 2030.
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Saleh Al-Jasser, attended the inauguration ceremony. Al-Jasser, who also chairs the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), highlighted the strategic importance of this development for the Kingdom’s aviation sector, which has seen impressive growth. This growth includes record passenger numbers, an expanding fleet, and enhanced global connectivity, in line with the goals set out in Vision 2030.
Al-Jasser emphasized that the phased expansion of Terminal 1 will elevate its annual passenger capacity from 3 million to 7 million. This development is part of a comprehensive strategy to modernize Terminals 1 and 2, aiming to improve the passenger experience and contribute to economic growth by strengthening Saudi Arabia’s air connectivity.
Terminal 1’s expansion features cutting-edge facilities, including 38 check-in counters, 10 self-service kiosks, 26 passport control counters, and 10 automated gates. Additionally, the terminal now boasts 24 boarding gates and 40 passport control counters in the arrivals area, alongside 11 self-service gates designed to improve the overall flow of passengers.
Together with the upcoming improvements to Terminal 2, these expansions will increase the airport’s combined capacity to 14 million passengers annually. The upgrades also include enhancements to commercial spaces, air circulation systems, energy efficiency, and safety protocols. The event also underscored the progress of Riyadh’s broader aviation strategy, which includes the recent master plan for King Salman International Airport, aimed at positioning Riyadh as a premier global destination and enhancing its role in international trade and travel.