Saudi authorities have granted an Air Operator Certificate to the Air Arabia-led consortium, clearing the way for a new Saudi low-cost carrier to begin operations from King Fahd International Airport in Dammam. The airline, backed by Air Arabia Group and Saudi investors Kun Holding and Nesma Group, is expected to launch imminently after completing the final regulatory step needed to enter service.
The approval follows the consortium’s earlier win in July 2025 to establish and operate a new national low-cost airline in Saudi Arabia. The carrier will be majority Saudi-owned and is being developed under the oversight of the General Authority of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services.
Aviation Week reported that the first flights could start as early as 20 September, while other reports pointed to a slightly different launch timing. Initial network plans indicate a domestic focus from Dammam, with links to Jeddah, Medina and Riyadh among the first routes under consideration. The new airline adds another competitor to Saudi Arabia’s expanding aviation market as the kingdom continues to increase capacity and connectivity.