#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Aviation Growth #Future Aviation Forum

Saudi Arabia to Host the 2026 Future Aviation Forum

Saudi Arabia proudly announces the return of the Future Aviation Forum (FAF) to Riyadh from April 20-22, 2026. This highly anticipated event is set to gather more than 11,000 aviation leaders and experts from around the globe, including regulatory authorities, manufacturers, airlines, and airport operators.

The Forum serves as a premier platform where aviation's most pressing challenges are addressed, and it highlights the significant growth and investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia's aviation sector. Registration for the event is now open, inviting stakeholders interested in the promising potential of the Kingdom's aviation landscape.

Record-Breaking Growth in Saudi Aviation

Saudi Arabia's civil aviation sector has achieved remarkable growth for three consecutive years. In 2025 alone, the country recorded an impressive 9.6% increase in passenger numbers, facilitating travel for approximately 140.9 million individuals. Additionally, the nation operated 980,000 flights, marking an 8.3% rise compared to the previous year.

His Excellency Abdulaziz Al Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), emphasized that the 2026 Future Aviation Forum will unite global aviation leaders to tackle major industry challenges, aligning with the theme: Unlocking Global Growth, Designing the Future Sky. This initiative underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to being at the forefront of addressing the world's critical aviation issues, from supply chain management to human capital development.

Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, His Excellency Saleh Al-Jasser, highlighted that the forum will showcase unprecedented investment and innovation opportunities, which are integral to the goals outlined in the Kingdom's Vision 2030 agenda. The success of the previous editions of the Forum has generated a strong demand from aviation leaders and sponsors alike.

Promising Future Ahead

The 2026 edition is set under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, reinforcing its importance as a vital global aviation leadership forum, recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization. The last forum facilitated over 100 agreements and secured deals valued at $20 billion.

In addition to hosting the 2026 Future Aviation Forum, GACA has confirmed its collaboration with Richard Attias and Associates for future editions in 2028 and 2030. This partnership reflects both the ongoing success of the Forum and the increasing participation from the aviation community.

GACA's recently published 2025 Air Traffic Report highlights an impressive rebound in global connections, now reaching 176 destinations—representing a remarkable 78% increase relative to pre-pandemic levels. The report also indicates a 10.2% rise in international passengers, totaling 76 million, alongside 65 million domestic travelers.

With national airlines boasting an order for over 500 aircraft and ongoing expansions to airport capacity throughout the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia is poised for continued rapid aviation growth in alignment with its Vision 2030 transformational objectives.

To register for the Future Aviation Forum and explore more about the event, visit the official website.