Riyadh to Host Routes World 2026: Saudi Arabia on the Path to Becoming a Global Aviation Hub

Saudi Arabia is preparing to host the 31st World Route Development Forum (Routes World 2026), shaping the future of air connectivity. Riyadh continues to strengthen its strategic position in global aviation and tourism.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been officially selected to host Routes World 2026. Organised by Tahaluf, the event will take place under the supervision of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), with the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) as the tourism partner, the Air Connectivity Programme (ACP) as the air connectivity partner, and Matarat Holding as the airport partner.

Routes World brings together airlines, airports, tourism authorities, and aviation stakeholders, providing a platform to plan and negotiate future air services. The event annually attracts thousands of aviation decision-makers, supporting global air connectivity and the growth of international travel and tourism.

Vision 2030 and Airport Growth

Riyadh’s selection as host reflects Saudi Arabia’s goal under Vision 2030 to become a global aviation hub and tourism destination. In 2024, the Kingdom achieved record growth, serving over 128 million passengers at its airports, representing a 15% year-on-year increase and a 25% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels.

In the first half of 2025, Saudi airports continued steady growth with 66.7 million passengers, 467,000 flights, and 575,000 tons of cargo.

Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, GACA President and Chairman of Matarat Holding, stated, “Hosting Routes World 2026 marks a significant milestone in our journey to make Riyadh and the Kingdom a central hub for global aviation.”

Global Leadership in Tourism and Air Connectivity

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, said, “Saudi Arabia is emerging as a global leader in tourism and aviation by connecting people and places. In 2024, we welcomed 116 million visitors; Routes World 2026 will prepare Saudi Arabia to play a vital role in global connectivity.”

Majid Khan, CEO of the Air Connectivity Programme, noted that the event demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to growing its tourism and aviation sectors. Routes Managing Director Steven Small emphasized that Riyadh’s strategic location and modern aviation infrastructure make it an ideal host for the event.

Future Goals and Investments

• King Salman International Airport (KSIA), Riyadh: Targeting 120 million passengers by 2030 and 185 million by 2050.

• King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah: Annual capacity planned at 80–114 million passengers by 2030, reaching 100 million by 2035.

• New Airline Investments: Riyadh Air set to launch by the end of 2025, with flights planned to over 100 international destinations.

Riyadh’s successes with Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup highlight Saudi Arabia as a reliable host for global events. Routes World 2026 will further cement the Kingdom’s position as a key global connection and gateway between Asia, Africa, and Europe.