Boeing has signed a memorandum of understanding with Saudi Arabia to explore partnerships and investments in the advanced air mobility sector, the Kingdom’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) announced.
The agreement, signed in Washington, D.C. by GACA president Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, supports Vision 2030 goals to strengthen aviation, tourism, and logistics as Saudi Arabia aims to become a global hub for travel and business.
GACA executive VP Sulaiman Al-Muhaimidi said the partnership reflects the authority’s commitment to “safer, smarter skies through advanced air mobility innovation,” positioning the Kingdom at the forefront of aviation’s future.
The Saudi delegation also visited the FAA, Boeing headquarters, and the Dreamliner facility in South Carolina. Discussions included collaboration in aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, sustainability, and technology transfer to localize aviation industries.
Saudi Arabia’s National Aviation Strategy targets doubling passenger capacity to 330 million annually and handling 4.5 million tonnes of cargo by 2030. The deal also supports the Kingdom’s push to attract 150 million tourists and grow aviation’s share of GDP beyond 10%.
Meanwhile, Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s second flag carrier, is preparing to launch this year. Backed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the airline is expected to add $20 billion to non-oil GDP and create over 200,000 jobs. It has four Boeing 787 Dreamliners in production and has ordered up to 50 Airbus A350s for delivery starting in 2030.