Air Arabia-led consortium, the Kingdom’s new national carrier, yesterday, commenced its operations from King Fahd International Airport in Dammam with the launch of its inaugural flight to Riyadh, marking the start of its operations from Dammam.

A special ceremony was held at King Fahd International Airport ahead of the inaugural flight, attended by officials, partners, guests and media representatives. Upon arrival at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, a welcome ceremony was also held to mark the launch of the carrier’s operations.

Commenting on the occasion, Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, said: “This step marks an important milestone as the new national budget carrier takes off to the skies for the first time from King Fahd International Airport. The start of operations reflects our commitment to supporting the continued development of the Kingdom’s aviation sector while expanding affordable and reliable air connectivity from the Eastern Province.”

He added: “We are pleased to begin our journey with three key domestic routes and look forward to progressively expanding our network and services. We thank the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Dammam Airports Company and all our partners for their continued support, and we look forward to welcoming our customers on board.”

Eng. Mohammed bin Ali Al-Hassany, Chief Executive Officer of Dammam Airports, said: “The launch of the inaugural flight of the Air Arabia-led consortium, which has chosen King Fahd International Airport as the base for its operations, marks an important step in strengthening air connectivity for the Eastern Province and expanding travel options for passengers. It also reflects the airport’s strong position and operational capabilities, while reinforcing its role as an air gateway connecting the Eastern Province with the world.”

Al-Hassany added: “We are proud to welcome the launch of the carrier’s operations from King Fahd International Airport. We will continue working closely with our partners to grow air traffic, enhance the travel experience, and diversify travel options and destinations for passengers. This supports the objectives of the Aviation Program under the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and strengthens the Eastern Province’s position on the regional and international air transport map.”

The carrier currently operates two daily flights from Dammam to Riyadh and Jeddah, in addition to one daily flight to Medinah.

In July 2025, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) announced that the Air Arabia-led consortium; comprised of Air Arabia Group, Nesma Group and Kun Holding had won the competition to establish the new carrier.

Last week, the national carrier received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), enabling the airline to commence operations from its base at King Fahd International Airport. The certificate was awarded following the successful completion of all required technical and regulatory procedures, confirming the carrier’s compliance with the applicable safety and operational requirements.

The national carrier follows Air Arabia’s proven low-cost business model, focused on providing customers with reliable, comfortable and value-driven air travel. The carrier operates Airbus A320 aircraft configured with 174 seats in a single-class cabin, offering generous seat pitch for enhanced passenger comfort.