Riyadh Airports Company, which manages and operates King Khalid International Airport (KKIA), has received the International Airport of the Year – Saudi Arabia and Duty Free Initiative of the Year – Saudi Arabia awards at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2024 – Middle East, proving its standing as a key player in the aviation industry. 

Being the country’s second-largest airport and the primary gateway to the Saudi Arabian capital, KKIA features two parallel runways that each stretch 4,260 metres. It also has five passenger terminals as well as a private aviation terminal. 

The airport also has collaborations with over 54 international and domestic airlines, connecting to more than 108 destinations and handling over 157,000 flights. During the first half of 2024, KKIA experienced an increase of 17% in passenger numbers compared to the same period in 2023, reaching 21.3 million passengers. Additionally, international passenger numbers grew by 22%.

Proactive approach

KKIA uses a proactive approach to collaborating with airline partners, maximising sales opportunities and enhancing the passenger experience. Aside from the significant passenger growth, international terminals have also achieved new routes and robust sales figures.

The airport’s long-term master plan aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Strategy and Vision 2030, which aims to transform KKIA into an aerotropolis that merges aviation, commerce, and innovation. Sustainability is a key focus for the company, laying out plans to attain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) platinum certification and renewable energy sources. 

KKIA’s aviation business development strategy underscores the expansion of connectivity—particularly to the East—with new airlines, destinations, and transfer products. Notably, KKIA has also improved the customer journey for both self-connecting and airline-connecting passengers to streamline transfers.

It has achieved the Welcome Chinese Certification as well, which is the first in the Kingdom and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Such an accomplishment reflects the airport’s commitment to serving Chinese passengers and strengthening ties with the Chinese market.

KKIA’s growth has been enhanced by its global connectivity and this is evident through its addition of 10 new airlines that include five Chinese carriers in 2024. From January to May 2024, KKIA saw a 22% increase in international passengers compared to the previous year, and on 13 June 2024, a new record was set with 130,000 passengers and 901 flights, which was recorded as the airport’s busiest day. It also has 10 new destinations, which include Beijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai and Warsaw. Hong Kong will also be included starting October 2024.

KKIA’s growth plans focus on boosting passenger numbers, enhancing its terminals and upgrading its infrastructure. By accomplishing these objectives, the airport reinforces its position as a vital hub that connects Riyadh to the world.

Duty-Free redevelopment

Aside from its remarkable growth in international passengers, KKIA also invested in “The Re-development of the Duty-Free Experience in Terminal 3.” This project redefined the duty-free shopping experience by combining a broad new product range, cultural immersion, and exceptional customer service. 

The elevated Duty-Free Experience is part of a larger project that includes developing Terminal 4, enhancing the overall airport infrastructure, and improving passenger flow.

Central to this new experience is the deep immersion in Arabian culture, which is present in the architectural design inspired by traditional Saudi motifs, vibrant colours, and elegant decor. 

The revamped and more spacious Duty Free embodies uniqueness as it now features over 8,000 products from more than 400 brands, exclusive Saudi souvenirs, a climate-controlled cigar humidor, local artisan showcases, and a gourmet section with traditional delicacies. The modern layout has also incorporated innovative features such as integrated shop fittings, digital displays, and a sustainable approach with recycling systems and energy-saving initiatives.

Through these enhancements, Duty Free sales increased by 45% from Q1 to Q2 2024, with notable growth in tobacco and personal care products. Its transactions also recorded an increase of 33%.

KKIA’s redeveloped Duty-Free Experience sets a new standard in airport retail, underscoring an approach that integrates technology, cultural heritage and superior service. 

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards – Middle East is a prestigious awards programme that recognises key players that redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences in the travel industry.

The TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2024 – Middle East is presented by Travel Daily Media. To view the full list of winners, click here. For more details, please contact Jane Patiag at +(65) 3158 1386 ext. 217 or awards@traveldailymedia.com.