King Khalid International Airport gets a major upgrade - here's what's coming
This major reorganisation is expected to increase terminal capacity, improve ease of movement between terminals, and reduce waiting times between flights
King Khalid International Airport (KKIA), operated and managed by Riyadh Airports Company (RAC), is gearing up for a glow-up, and it will be its biggest one yet.
It’s been more than four decades since it welcomed its first passengers, and soon the airport will roll out a major upgrade in the first quarter of 2026. In alignment with the rapid development taking place in Riyadh, the plan is one of KKIA’s most prominent development projects, designed to advance the strategic vision for airports, given its comprehensive operational and organisational scope for RAC.
One of the biggest changes at KKIA is a refreshed terminal layout. Terminal 5 will be designated for international flights operated by foreign airlines, while Terminals 3 and 4 will be allocated for domestic flights. Terminals 1 and 2 will continue to serve international flights operated by national airlines.
This major reorganisation aims to increase terminal capacity, reduce waiting times between flights, and make getting from one terminal to another smoother than ever, enhancing the traveller experience and service quality. Think quicker connections, less time wandering, and more time enjoying the journey.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, the exact switch-over date will be revealed once all airport sectors and airlines have confirmed operational readiness.
RAC, in coordination with the General Authority of Civil Aviation and MATARAT Holding, says that this transformation is about creating a more effortless and elevated travel experience – one that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global travel and logistics hub.
A refreshed KKIA also supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, bringing world-class travel standards to a city quickly becoming one of the region’s most exciting destinations.
For passengers like us, it simply means that flying through Riyadh is about to get a whole lot smoother, faster, and more enjoyable.
Images: KKIA.sa
