King Fahd International Airport in Saudi Arabia stands as one of the world’s largest airports by area, covering an astounding 776 square kilometers. Its sheer size is so immense that it could easily encompass the entire city of Mumbai within its boundaries. The airport has seen significant growth in passenger traffic and has ambitious plans for future expansion.
Massive Scale and Undeveloped Potential
Spanning approximately 776 square kilometers, King Fahd International Airport (KFIA) holds its position as one of the largest airports globally by area. A substantial portion of this vast land currently remains undeveloped desert. The airport commenced commercial operations on November 28, 1999, and has been managed by the Dammam Airports Company (DACO) since July 1, 2017.
Significant Growth in Passenger Traffic and Flights
In 2024, KFIA reported a remarkable 15% annual increase in passenger traffic, reaching 12 million passengers between January and mid-December. During the same period, the airport handled over 99,000 flights, which marked a 5% growth compared to 2023.
Ambitious Expansion Plans Under Saudi Vision 2030
As a key component of Saudi Vision 2030, the airport has outlined ambitious expansion plans. The goal is to accommodate over 19.3 million passengers annually by 2030, with potential capacity increasing to 32 million passengers per year. Furthermore, the airport projects a substantial 1,000% increase in air cargo capacity, aiming to exceed 600,000 tons annually.
Key Facilities within the Airport Property
Within its extensive property, the King Fahd International Airport also features significant infrastructure, including a mosque with a capacity for 2,000 people and a residential community designed to house 3,000 individuals.
