An Air Arabia-led consortium has received an Air Operator Certificate from Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation, clearing the way for the launch of a new national low-cost airline based at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam.
The consortium includes Air Arabia Group, Nesma Group and KUN Holding Company and was selected in July 2025 to establish and operate the new carrier with majority Saudi ownership.
The airline plans to serve 24 domestic and 57 international destinations and is expected to carry approximately 10 million passengers annually by 2030. The original plans also envisage a fleet of 45 aircraft by 2030.
The new carrier is expected to create more than 2,400 direct jobs while supporting tourism, trade and air connectivity in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.
The Air Operator Certificate was granted after the airline completed the required regulatory and operational procedures covering safety, security and operational quality standards.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, financial, or legal advice.
