RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has launched its first international flight route from Cairo to Arar, the Kingdom’s capital of the Northern Borders Province, strengthening its position as a major regional aviation hub. 

The new service, announced by Cluster 2 Airports Co., connects Cairo International Airport with Arar Airport, aiming to boost passenger traffic between Saudi Arabia and Egypt and strengthen trade and cultural ties. 

The launch, overseen by Prince Faisal bin Khalid bin Sultan, governor of the Northern Borders Region, marks a major expansion in the Kingdom’s air connectivity. The event was attended by senior officials from the airport company, representatives from Egypt’s Nile Air, and various government agencies, the Saudi Press Agency reported. 

This development aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which aims to boost the Kingdom's flight route capacity and attract over 150 million visitors by 2030. The new route underscores Saudi Arabia's ambition to become a key aviation hub, connecting the East and West. 

Ali Masrahi, CEO of Cluster 2 Airports Co., described the route’s launch as a milestone in the company’s transportation and logistics strategy, reflecting its commitment to the National Aviation Strategy. He highlighted the initiative's role in advancing airport infrastructure and enhancing passenger services. 

Masrahi also expressed gratitude to the regional governor for his support in attracting more international flights to Arar International Airport and improving the passenger experience across air facilities in the Northern Borders region. 

Cluster 2 Airports Co., which manages 22 domestic and international airports in Saudi Arabia, continues to expand its global flight network. 

The firm reached a new passenger milestone in July, processing 1.73 million travelers, a 9 percent increase from the previous record set in July 2019. 

Operating facilities such as AlUla International, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Airport in Jazan, and King Saud bin Abdulaziz Airport in the Al-Bahah region, the government-run company is experiencing increased traffic as part of its strategy to enhance network sustainability, boost tourism, and improve operational efficiency. 

This growth reflects the broader trend in Saudi Arabia’s air traffic, which increased by 17 percent in the first half of 2024, reaching 62 million passengers compared to 53 million in the same period last year, according to the General Authority of Civil Aviation.