Riyadh is planning to open one of the largest airports in the world by 2030. Named King Salman International Airport, it will be designed to handle up to 120 million passengers annually by 2030, and 185 million by 2050.
Linda Schucroft, Vice President of Innovation and Customer Experience at the airport, discussed these plans ahead of the FTE EMEA and FTE Ancillary & Retailing events in Dublin, scheduled for June 11-13.
Riyadh’s New Gateway Redefines Air Travel for the Future
The new airport in Riyadh will cover 57 square kilometers and include six parallel runways. Its design focuses on the customer, offering personalized experiences in both physical and digital forms.
Future Travel Experience shared that the aim is to provide journeys customized to the needs of each traveler, breaking away from the typical business and economy class experiences. This innovative approach includes using first-to-market AI-powered platforms to enhance how passengers interact with airport services.
In addition to the airport itself, a large area surrounding the facility will be developed into an “airport city.” This will include residential areas, hotels, retail spaces, and offices, creating a vibrant community for both travelers and local residents.
Schucroft also shared a unique partnership with Riyadh Air, which will allow the airport to share data with the new airline to improve service. This collaboration aims to streamline the passenger experience by reducing wait times and stress at the airport.
As the airport prepares for its grand opening, it is also focusing on adopting new technologies like AI, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These technologies are expected to revolutionize the way travelers move through the airport, providing a seamless and efficient experience.
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