Air Arabia-led consortium begins flights from Dammam

Dhaka: The Air Arabia-led consortium, Saudi Arabia's new national carrier, launched its first flight from King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on September 20, operating an inaugural service to Riyadh.

A ceremony was held at the Dammam airport ahead of the flight, attended by officials, partners, and media representatives. A separate welcome event took place at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh to mark the occasion.

Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, called the launch a milestone for the new national budget carrier and said it reflects the company's commitment to expanding affordable air connectivity from the Eastern Province. He noted the airline is starting with three domestic routes and plans to grow its network progressively.

Mohammed bin Ali Al-Hassany, Chief Executive Officer of Dammam Airports, said the launch strengthens air connectivity for the Eastern Province and reinforces the airport's role as a regional gateway. He added that the move supports the Aviation Program under the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.

The carrier currently flies twice daily between Dammam and both Riyadh and Jeddah, along with one daily flight to Medina.

In July 2025, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) named the Air Arabia-led consortium, comprising Air Arabia Group, Nesma Group, and Kun Holding, as the winner of the competition to establish the new national carrier.

The airline received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from GACA last week, clearing it to begin commercial operations from its Dammam base after completing required technical and regulatory procedures.

Modeled on Air Arabia's low-cost framework, the new carrier aims to offer reliable and value-driven travel. It operates Airbus A320 aircraft in a single-class configuration with 174 seats, providing extra seat pitch for passenger comfort.