The Helicopter Company has obtained a license to operate commercial flights from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), and in celebration of this milestone the company hosted a dinner ceremony on July 28 at Crowne Plaza RDC Hotel and Convention Center in Riyadh.
Chief Executive of The Helicopter Company Yahya Al-Ghoraibi was presented with the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) during the ceremony by Yasir Al-Mayoof, assistant to GACA president for aviation standards, making the company Saudi Arabia’s first national commercial helicopter operator.
During his speech, Al-Ghoraibi said that getting the Air Operator Certificate is a badge of honor and puts great responsibility on the company as the first commercial helicopter operator in the
Kingdom.
“The Helicopter Company is aligned with the Saudi Vision 2030 to provide the best support services to the transportation industry in general, and the aviation industry specifically, as a major pillar pushing the development of both the business and tourism sectors,” he said. Al-Ghoraibi concluded his speech by thanking the GACA for their support and trust in
the company.
Fully owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), The Helicopter Company was established in 2018 with an initial capital of SR565 million ($151 million). The company will provide private transportation services within the main cities of Saudi Arabia, as well as sightseeing trips to various tourism attractions around the Kingdom.
Moreover, it will provide access to remote destinations, offering a high-end experience on a par with other global destinations.
The launch of The Helicopter Company is in line with PIF’s strategy to generate sustainable returns, establish and develop new sectors in Saudi Arabia and support the realization of Vision 2030 by acting as a catalyst for the Kingdom’s nascent tourism sector.
The Helicopter Company celebrates GACA recognition
The Helicopter Company celebrates GACA recognition
Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action
The Dubai Shopping Festival is raising the bar this winter with a high-impact sporting calendar that runs throughout December and January, transforming the city into a hub for elite competition, community fitness and outdoor action.
From professional basketball to baseball games, polo tournaments, half marathons, and horse racing, the festival brings together athletes, families and spectators for a dynamic winter season of sport. The diverse lineup of events strengthens DSF’s role in supporting Dubai’s active lifestyle, showcasing world-class sporting venues and encouraging community engagement during the city’s peak outdoor season.
Key sporting events taking place during DSF:
Dubai Racing Carnival
- Race days: Jan. 2, Jan. 9 and ongoing dates until March 13.
- Location: Meydan Racecourse
The flagship winter racing season features international horses and top jockeys.
More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnivaland https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnival-festive-friday
Silver Cup
- Date: Jan. 10-Jan.24
- Location: Al-Habtoor Polo Resort and Club
Silver Cup, part of Dubai’s prestigious polo calendar, sees six of the world’s best teams go head-to-head in a 20-goal handicap.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/silver-cup
Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge — Build-Up Ride 4
- Date: Jan. 4
- Location: Al-Qudra Cycle Track
The last of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge Build-Up Rides is designed to help cyclists build their stamina ahead of the ultimate challenge.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/spinneys-dubai-92-cycle-challenge-build-up-ride-4
Hood to Coast Dubai 2026
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Al-Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
Hood to Coast Dubai challenges teams to conquer a series of relay segments through expansive desert trails, with each runner taking on their leg before passing the baton.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/hood-to-coast
Skechers Performance Run — Race 4 (16k/10k/5k/3k)
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Meydan
Enjoy a fun day out for the whole family at this popular community race offering various distances, where participants can run along the traffic-free roads of Meydan.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/skechers-performance-run
Marina Home Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon 2026
- Date: Jan. 11
- Location: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
One of the largest races of its kind in the UAE and the Middle East, this half marathon will mark its 23rd edition in 2026.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-creek-striders-half-marathon
A citywide sporting season
With events spanning elite international fixtures, community runs, polo tournaments, multi-distance races, trail challenges and recurring racing nights at Meydan, DSF strengthens Dubai’s winter season for sport, well-being and outdoor experiences.
