As development advances on Riyadh's massive King Salman International Airport (KSIA), Saudi Arabia announced Nov. 26 that work is set to begin on a new passenger terminal there designed to handle up to 40 million travelers annually.
Planned to span several million square feet, the terminal will incorporate state-of-the-art features, including biometric check-in systems, extensive retail and dining areas, premium lounges and a direct link to the Riyadh Metro network.
The next phase of development will also include new aircraft hangars and airside infrastructure. Construction is scheduled to start in 2026.
The terminal, which will operate under the supervision of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and Riyadh Airports Company, will serve both domestic and international routes, along with a focus on the growing number of pilgrims traveling to Mecca and Medina.
The new terminal forms part of the kingdom's strategy to transform KSIA into one of the world's largest aviation hubs. The project will eventually replace King Khalid International Airport.
In August 2024, Foster + Partners, Jacobs, Mace and Saudi firm Nera were appointed by the King Salman International Airport Development Company to lead the design and construction of the wider airport program, which will include six parallel runways and multiple new terminals.
Sustainability is a focus for the developers of the KSIA facility, which aims for LEED Platinum certification and will integrate renewable energy sources and advanced green initiatives throughout the airport.
King Salman International Airport is due to begin operations in 2029, in line with Saudi Arabia's 2030 Vision.
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