RIYADH- Construction has begun on the third runway at King Salman International Airport, reinforcing the city’s ambition to become a global air transport hub. The airport, located in Riyadh, is being developed on the existing site of King Khalid International Airport (RUH).
King Salman International Airport is undergoing phased development under the supervision of national aviation authorities, with infrastructure projects designed to support rising passenger and cargo demand. The latest runway milestone aligns with parallel plans to deliver one of the region’s largest passenger terminals as part of the same master plan.
Riyadh Airport New Runway and Terminal
Construction of the third runway marks a major step in the airfield development program at King Salman International Airport.
The runway is being built in collaboration with international and local contractors and is aligned with prevailing wind patterns to support safe aircraft operations in all conditions.
Once operational, the additional runway will increase hourly aircraft movement capacity from 65 to 85. This enhancement is expected to reduce congestion, improve punctuality, and provide greater flexibility for long-haul and regional operations.
The runway will span 4,200 meters and feature multiple access taxiways to ensure smooth aircraft flow.
Airport officials describe the project as critical to removing future capacity constraints as traffic volumes grow.
Mega Terminal Project
Alongside airfield upgrades, Saudi Arabia is preparing to begin construction of a new mega passenger terminal at King Salman International Airport. The terminal is designed to handle up to 40 million passengers annually and will span several million square feet.
Plans for the terminal include biometric check-in, extensive retail and dining facilities, premium lounges, and a direct connection to the Riyadh Metro network.
The facility will serve both domestic and international travelers, with a strong focus on pilgrimage traffic.
Construction of the terminal is scheduled to start in 2026, forming part of a broader development phase that also includes aircraft hangars and additional airside infrastructure.
The new terminal will eventually replace existing facilities at King Khalid International Airport.
Vision 2030 Impact
King Salman International Airport is a cornerstone project under Saudi Vision 2030, aimed at positioning Riyadh as a leading global capital.
The wider airport development will span approximately 57 square kilometers and ultimately feature six parallel runways and multiple terminals.
The airport is designed to accommodate up to 100 million passengers annually and handle more than two million tons of cargo by 2030.
Sustainability remains a priority, with the project targeting LEED Platinum certification through renewable energy integration and green building practices.
Operations at the new airport are expected to begin in 2029, supporting tourism growth, international connectivity, and economic diversification across the Kingdom.
Bottom Line
The third runway and upcoming mega terminal underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to transforming King Salman International Airport into a world-class aviation hub.
Together, these projects enhance capacity, efficiency, and global connectivity in line with Vision 2030 goals.
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