Saudia Group subsidiary Saudia Private is to offer a comprehensive range of private aviation services at Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz International airport.

Given the increasing number of annual visitors to Al Ula, a distinctive historical and cultural landmark within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the agreement will provide services such as aircraft leasing and management, maintenance and cleaning, as well as essential ground operations such as take off and landing permits, ground handling and catering logistics. In addition, Saudia will operate the private aviation lounge at the airport.

On 4 March, 2021 the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation approved the addition of the airport in Al Ula to the list of international airports in Saudi Arabia after it met all relevant operational requirements and international standards.

Saudia Private has also become the first company to obtain the Base Operations Audit award from ARGUS International, in recognition of meeting the rigorous international industry best practices and standards. The programme encourages and assists companies in reducing ground incidents, damage to aircraft and company assets.

CEO Dr Fahad Al Jarboa says: "Receiving the ARGUS award for Base Operations Audit is a remarkable achievement for Saudia Private, affirming the extraordinary investments we have made to ensure the safety, well-being and convenience of our valued guests and industry partners. We continue to adhere to the strictest local and international aviation standards, in line with the Saudia Group values, and to innovate to meet and exceed the expectations of our guests as we work towards representing the Kingdom across the globe."

ARGUS president Michael McCready adds: "The ARGUS standards for the Base Operations Audit raises the certification level to a new height for the global FBO industry. Having Saudia Private take action to meet these new standards affirms its dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of its valued guests from around the world."