Dubai-based private jet operator gains landmark approval for operations within the kingdom
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VistaJet becomes first domestic operator in Saudi
Dubai-based private aviation company VistaJet will begin domestic operations in Saudi Arabia, strengthening its presence in one of the Middle East’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
The company recently received landmark approval from Saudi authorities, becoming the first international private jet operator permitted to run flights within the kingdom.
This follows new regulatory reforms that have opened Saudi airspace to foreign competition.
With a fleet of 270 business jets – including the world’s largest international collection of Bombardier Global 7500 aircraft – VistaJet will offer seamless point-to-point flights both within Saudi Arabia and to destinations abroad.
Building on more than 15 years in the market, the company has seen strong momentum, with Programme Memberships rising 32% in the first half of 2025, a trend that underscores the growing appetite for domestic and international private travel.
“Saudi Arabia is a key market for us, given its dynamic economy, ambitious tourism growth targets and increasing appetite for premium travel solutions,” a company spokesperson added.
Saudi Arabia is experiencing an aviation boom, backed by more than US$100 billion in government investment.
This includes the launch of new carrier Riyadh Air, the planned King Salman International Airport in Riyadh with capacity for 120 million passengers by 2030, and a significant increase in private and luxury travel tied to giga-projects such as Neom and the Red Sea development.
Business jet movements in the kingdom rose by double digits in 2024, reflecting surging demand for premium connectivity.
This momentum is mirrored across the region, with the Middle East’s private jet market valued at US$566 million in 2024 and projected to reach US$943 million by 2029.
Dubai alone recorded a 7% year-on-year rise in business jet movements in the first half of 2024, while the sector across the Middle East is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 5% over the next five years.
