The terminal relocation project at King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) in Riyadh, managed and operated by Riyadh Airports Company, represents the largest operational transformation since the airport’s establishment. It aims to facilitate the movement of both domestic and international transit passengers, enhance passenger experience, and improve operational efficiency.
Phase One of the project was launched on 16 February, with operations now stabilized following the transition. Terminals 1 and 2 have been designated for international flights of national carriers, including Saudia, Riyadh Air, flynas, and flyadeal. This has ensured smoother passenger flow and a more organized travel environment through optimized terminal utilization, reduced transfer time, and increased capacity to accommodate the rapid growth in passenger numbers.
The relocation will continue in the coming period in line with the operational plan. Starting 24 February, Terminal 4 will be allocated to domestic flights of national carriers (Saudia, flynas, and flyadeal), while 25 February will mark the allocation of Terminal 5 for international flights of foreign carriers. At the same time, domestic operations of national carriers will be distributed across Terminals 3 and 4, helping to reduce waiting times through the connecting corridor for both domestic and international transit passengers.
During the relocation period, Riyadh Airports Company deployed a comprehensive field support system to ensure a smooth transition, including more than 650 customer guidance staff assisting passengers prior to arrival at terminals, responding to inquiries within the airport, and providing immediate on-ground support. The company also introduced a range of facilitation measures, including free parking for the first hour, complimentary inter-terminal transport via taxis and the Riyadh Metro, and increased shuttle bus frequency at intervals of every 4 minutes.
Riyadh Airports Company emphasized the importance of passengers contacting their airline operators or using the airport’s interactive WhatsApp service to verify flight details and assigned terminals before heading to the airport, reaffirming its commitment to passenger comfort and the efficient execution of the terminal relocation project.