Abha International Airport, located in the Aseer region, holds the distinction of being Saudi Arabia's fifth-largest airport in terms of passenger traffic.

The Saudi Civil Aviation Holding Company (Matarat) has asked for proposals (RFP) to pre-qualified bidders for the privatization, development, and enhancement of the New Abha International Airport in order to meet increasing needs and upgrade its infrastructure.

With completion projected by 2028, the proposed project intends to greatly expand the airport in phases, Saudi Arabia's larger goal to modernize and improve its transportation system includes this project, Although Abha International Airport already handles 1.5 million people a year, its ultimate capacity should be 13 million passengers by 2054, in line with the growth goals of the area and rising tourism potential.

Bidders for the Expansion Project

To take part in the bidding process several regional and multinational businesses have been nominated, These encompass:

  • GMR Airports Limited: An Indian corporation well-known for its knowledge of building and running contemporary airports like those in New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Goa.
  • Mada TAV: TAV Havalimanlari Holding and MADA Holding International, Turkey-based collaboration.
  • Vision Asyada daa: The combined work of Vision International Investment, Asyad Holding, and daa International Limited.

Comprising Skilled Engineers Contracting, Limak Insaat Sanayi Ve Ticaret AS, Incheon International Airport Corporation, Dar Al-Handasah Consultants, and Obermeyer Middle East GmbH, Touwaik Alliance is a consortium.

Under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, these bidders will engage in terminal development under responsibility for the operations and development of the airport for thirty years.

Starting with a noteworthy increase in terminal space, the expansion will be carried out in two to three phases, First phase will see the terminal area grow from its present 10,500 square meters to 69,400 square meters. It will rise yet more to 73,200 square meters in the second phase. With 20 gates in this rebuilt terminal, airport efficiency and passenger flow would be much enhanced.

The rich cultural and historical legacy of the Aseer region will be honored in the architectural design of the new terminal, Inspired by the Rijal Almaa town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it guarantees the airport captures the local pride and identity.

Expanding the airport is a calculated action meant to assist the development of the Aseer region as a major travel and business center, Enhanced amenities and higher capacity at Abha International Airport will draw more local and international passengers, This growth fits Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification and improvement of the tourism industry.

Furthermore, the development will boost the economy by means of employment possibilities and encouragement of cooperation with foreign partners. Adoption of global best practices in airport management and operations and knowledge transfer made possible by a PPP model help to ensure this.

An essential component of Saudi Arabia's aviation system, the renovated Abha International Airport will be crucial in meeting growing travel needs, Modern facilities, a design honoring regional legacy, and improved operational capacity will let the airport be a modern gateway to the Aseer region, so fostering cultural interaction and economic development.