Arab Aviation Summit 2025 Explores Future of Aviation and Tourism in MENA Region

The 12th Arab Aviation Summit kicked off on February 17, 2025, at the VOCO Hotel Conference Ballroom in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

As part of the ambitious Vision 2030 initiative, the Kingdom is investing a staggering $100 billion into infrastructure development, policy reforms, and innovative solutions aimed at positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading global aviation hub.

From just 18 million visitors in 1999, the region now attracts over 140 million tourists annually.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt are leading this growth, driven by luxury tourism, cultural heritage, religious travel, and adventure tourism.

With 80% of international tourists travelling by air, aviation serves as a critical enabler of global tourism.

He emphasized that expanding airline routes and streamlining visa policies would further boost tourism in the region.

This growth will be fueled by investments in sustainable aviation, green tourism projects, and net-zero emission initiatives.

Furthermore, he foresaw AI, digital transformation, and the development of smart airports revolutionizing the travel experience, making air travel more seamless and efficient.

Beyond the keynote, the summit featured insightful discussions on air connectivity, policy reforms, and sustainability initiatives.

These leaders examined trends shaping the future of the aviation industry, focusing on innovation and sustainable practices.

The Arab Aviation Summit continues to serve as a pivotal event in fostering collaborations, shaping policies, and driving growth in the aviation and tourism industries.