Saudi Arabia’s King Salman International Airport project in Riyadh has taken another big step forward with the confirmation of several architectural and engineering firms who will bring this ambitious vision to life. Backed by the Kingdom’s Public Investment Fund, the King Salman International Airport Development Company (KSIADC) has now selected key players for various design and consultancy roles in what is set to become the world’s largest airport.

In an official announcement from the Saudi Press Agency, KSIADC revealed that Foster + Partners, a renowned UK-based architectural firm, has been chosen to design the airport's overall masterplan, which includes terminals, six runways, and a vast real estate area. Additionally, Jacobs, a US engineering firm, will offer specialized consultancy services for the masterplan and design of the new runways.

Another major development is the appointment of Mace, a UK-based firm, as the project's delivery partner, ensuring smooth and timely execution. Local firm Nera has also been awarded the airspace design consultancy contract.

Earlier this year, MEED reported exclusively on the selection of these firms for key parts of the project. Furthermore, KSIADC is now inviting contractors to submit qualifications for a wide range of contracts, including those for engineering, procurement, construction (EPC), specialist systems, and health, safety, and environmental services.

Project Breakdown:

The ambitious King Salman International Airport is divided into eight key development assets:

• Iconic Terminal
• Terminal 6
• Private Aviation Terminal
• Central Runway and Temporary Apron
• Hangars
• Landside Transport
• Cargo Buildings
• Real Estate Development

Covering an enormous area of 57 square kilometers, this mega project will include six parallel runways and integrate the existing terminals at King Khalid International Airport. The development will also feature an additional 12 square kilometers of airport support facilities, along with residential, recreational, and retail spaces, plus other logistics real estate.

Image source: Arabian Business

Aiming for the World's Largest Airport

Once completed by 2030, King Salman International Airport will be the largest airport in the world by passenger capacity. The airport is set to accommodate up to 120 million passengers annually by 2030, and that number will rise to 185 million by 2050. On the cargo side, it is expected to process 3.5 million tonnes per year by 2050.

This project is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader $100 billion investment in its aviation sector, and is a cornerstone of the country's ambitious Saudi Aviation Strategy. The aim is to triple annual passenger traffic to 330 million by 2030, increase air cargo traffic to 4.5 million tonnes, and expand the country’s international air connections to over 250 destinations.

Transforming Riyadh into an Aerotropolis

King Salman International Airport will not just be an airport—it will be a dynamic aerotropolis, offering a seamless customer experience with world-class operations and cutting-edge innovation. Designed with Saudi culture in mind, the airport will reflect Riyadh’s unique identity, ensuring a memorable travel experience for both visitors and transit travelers.

Sustainability at Its Core

With sustainability as a key pillar, the airport is set to achieve LEED Platinum certification. It will incorporate green initiatives and will be powered entirely by renewable energy, making it a model for environmentally conscious development.

The Future of Travel in Saudi Arabia

When fully realized, King Salman International Airport will not only serve as a transport hub but also a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s future, helping to meet the growing demand for air travel and transforming Riyadh into a global aviation center.

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