RIYADH: The Sand & Fun General Aviation Air Show 2025 has opened at Al-Thumamah Airport in Riyadh with the signing of 18 investment agreements worth SR250 million.
The event, which lasts until Nov. 29, was attended on its first day by Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, the chairman of the Saudi Aviation Club, alongside local and international officials. The opening ceremony featured an F-15SA aerial display and other cultural and military performances.
The agreements will advance technology transfer and help aviation industries, in support of Saudi Vision 2030.
Prince Sultan said the deals marked a qualitative step in developing the general aviation sector and in transforming it into a driver of regional economic growth.
This year’s show features more than 90 aerial performances and over 150 exhibitors from across the aviation field. The event also hosts Hangar Talks, in which experts discuss sustainable aviation and emerging technologies.
Interactive zones include Terminal X, offering flight simulations with extended reality technologies, and displays of electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.
The event places a strong emphasis on youth engagement, with over 70,000 work hours contributed by young Saudis, indicating the growing interest in the aviation sector among youngsters.
With a program containing aerial displays, interactive activities, and educational events, organizers expect more than 200,000 visitors before the event concludes.
The show supports the Kingdom’s efforts to establish a regional aviation manufacturing hub, diversify the national economy, and create job opportunities in the growing sector.
It also provides a platform for companies to showcase innovations and explore investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s rapidly expanding aviation industry.
