Al-Ula International Airport
A rapidly expanding international gateway to Saudi Arabia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and northwest tourism hub.
Overview of the Airport
Al-Ula International Airport (ULH) is located 25 km southeast of Al-Ula city, serving as the main entry point for visitors to the region’s archaeological and cultural attractions. The airport connects travelers to the UNESCO-listed Hegra and Al-Ula Heritage Village and is a key driver of tourism in northwest Saudi Arabia.
26.4711, 37.7908
Growth Trend
Passenger traffic has grown significantly following the 2021 expansion and the launch of new international routes.
Employment
1,200
Staff include airline personnel, ground handling, security, retail, and airport operations teams.
Global Ranking
Market Share of Major Airlines
Capacity Expansion
A major expansion announced in 2023 will increase annual capacity from 400,000 to 6 million passengers, with new terminal and apron facilities.
Technological Advancements
Recent upgrades include digital information systems, expanded check-in automation, and enhanced security screening.
Sustainability Initiatives
The airport incorporates energy-efficient terminal designs and aims to adopt green building standards in future expansions.
Recommendations
Policy Alignment
Strengthen collaboration with national tourism and aviation authorities to support sustainable growth and international connectivity.
Infrastructure Investment
Prioritize terminal modernization, apron expansion, and logistics hub development to meet projected demand.
Sustainability Focus
Accelerate adoption of renewable energy and eco-friendly operations to align with Saudi Vision 2030 sustainability goals.
