12th Arab Aviation Summit Concludes in Riyadh, Driving Regional Growth and Industry Innovation

Two-day summit was held under the theme, “Uniting Leaders, Building Tomorrow: Advancing Global Aviation”

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; February 18, 2025: The 12th edition of the Arab Aviation Summit (AAS), the region’s leading aviation and tourism industry event, concluded today in Riyadh. Under the theme “Uniting Leaders, Building Tomorrow: Advancing Global Aviation,” the summit brought together over 600 participants, including key policymakers, industry leaders, and global stakeholders to discuss the latest trends, opportunities, and challenges shaping the future of the aviation sector.

Hosted for the first time in Riyadh, the summit underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global aviation and its commitment to driving industry transformation. The two-days summit featured a series of insightful discussions examining the evolving relationship between regional and international markets, the increasing role of Arab countries in global tourism growth, and the economic and geopolitical factors shaping the industry. Experts explored the latest developments in aviation finance, new business models, and infrastructure investments that are set to redefine air travel in the region.

A key focus of the discussions was Saudi Arabia’s ambitious aviation strategy, which aims to position the Kingdom as a leading global aviation hub. Industry leaders assessed the impact of the country’s substantial investments in air transport infrastructure, airline expansion, and regulatory advancements, and highlighted the broader opportunities for enhancing connectivity across the Arab world and beyond.

The summit kicked off with high-level discussions analyzing the aviation outlook and how Saudi airports are transforming the global landscape. Day two expanded the scope to include general aviation, advanced air mobility, and workforce development.

During the summit, Captain Ismael Koshy, Managing Director of Saudia Academy, announced the launch of a new training center in Riyadh, equipped with 8 simulators. This marks the first phase of a larger project aimed at enhancing training capabilities in the Kingdom. Additionally, Wissam Mehyou, CEO of Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise, revealed plans for two new training centers, bringing the total to 15 by 2030 as part of a global expansion to 80 locations.

“As we wrap up this inspiring event, Airbus proudly stands as a key enabler of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Vision 2030. Through innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth, we continue to push the boundaries of aerospace, empowering the future and turning ambitious goals into reality,” remarked Usman Mastan, VP Sales Middle-East at Airbus.

AviLease Deputy CEO, Tariq Alghaziri commented: “We are proud to support the 12th Arab Aviation Summit, a pivotal platform driving dialogue and collaboration within the global aviation community. AviLease is committed to accelerating the growth of Saudi Arabia's aviation sector in line with Vision 2030. Aligned with this year’s summit theme, 'Uniting Leaders, Building Tomorrow: Advancing Global Aviation,' our investments in next-generation aircraft and innovative leasing solutions reflect our mission to empower airlines worldwide while contributing to the region's transformation into a global aviation hub. Events like AAS are essential for fostering industry partnerships and shaping a sustainable and connected future for air travel.

Throughout the two-days summit, attendees heard from an array of eminent speakers giving keynote addresses, leading panel discussions, and networking sessions covering a wide range of critical topics shaping the future of aviation in the Kingdom, the region, and beyond. Moreover, industry pioneers and operators shared their insights on how technological advancements, sustainability initiatives, and evolving passenger demands are shaping the future of air travel. The summit also provided a platform for decision-makers to address key challenges, including aircraft availability, operational efficiencies, and strategies for sustainable growth.

As its 12 edition comes to a close, the Arab Aviation Summit reaffirms its role as a meeting point for aviation stakeholders, fostering meaningful discussions and collaborations that will influence the sector’s trajectory in the years to come. With support from leading global and regional aviation organizations, the event highlighted new initiatives that will strengthen the region’s role in global aviation.

Endorsed by Arab Governments and supported by a global network of industry leaders, including IATA, the Arab Air Carriers’ Organization, Airbus, CFM, AVILEASE, MATARAT, the Saudi Connectivity Program, Rolls Royce, Gulf Stream and others, the 2025 summit offered participants unparalleled access to curated content and best practices for airlines, airports, innovation, costumer experience, general aviation, training and advanced air mobility.