Abha Airport to Expand in 2027 With 12 Million Capacity Target

Expansion plans for Abha Airport are set to move forward with construction expected to begin in early 2027, increasing capacity to 12 million passengers annually.

The project will be developed north of the existing airport under a public-private partnership model, with the Aseer Development Authority working to finalise the consortium that will deliver the build.

Engineering designs are reported to be around 90% complete, with construction expected to take approximately five years once work begins.

Earlier in September 2025, a joint team including Matarat, the National Centre for Privatisation & PPP, and the Aseer Development Authority confirmed that four bidders were competing for the project.

The expansion will be built adjacent to the current airport footprint and is intended to significantly increase passenger throughput once completed.

Officials also noted wider investment activity across the region, with private sector projects reaching SAR 5 billion, largely concentrated in hospitality and hotel developments. Preparations are also under way for a SAR 15 billion project at Soudah Peaks, backed by the Public Investment Fund, with construction expected to begin within a year.

In parallel, plans are progressing to expand King Khalid University Stadium to a capacity of 45,000 seats ahead of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, with engineering designs scheduled for completion by the end of the year.