PIF: Advancing Development of Saudi Aviation Sector System

PIF: Advancing Development of Saudi Aviation Sector System

Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector, identified as a strategic focus for the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is undergoing continuous development as part of Saudi Vision 2030, with a specific emphasis on tourism and transportation.

Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Raed Ismail, Director of Direct Investments in the Middle East and North Africa at the PIF, noted that companies formed to attract approximately 100 million visitors by 2030 are aiming to position Saudi Arabia among the top five countries in terms of visitation numbers.

Development Operations

Ismail stated that the aviation system in Saudi Arabia is undergoing continuous development, noting signs of its completion when considering the sector as a whole, not just within a single airline company.

“Airline companies are a significant part, but there are also airports, such as King Salman Airport, which complements the overall strategy,” Ismail told Asharq Al-Awsat.

Ismail explained that the integrated aviation sector includes ground services and training, the latter being particularly crucial given the shortage of pilots experienced globally, not only in the region, during the coronavirus pandemic.

He emphasized the importance of training for recent graduates.

Ismail highlighted the field of maintenance as “extremely important and a fundamental aspect in sustainability plans.”

He also stressed the area of supply, stating that the