Wizz Air plans to expand into Saudi Arabia as the budget carrier seeks to support planned tourism growth.
The eastern and central European budget carrier says ambitious plans by the country to triple passenger levels by 2030 will provide “unprecedented opportunities” for airlines and the aviation supply chain.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been secured with the Saudi investment ministry, supported by a national air connectivity initiative by the country’s tourism ministry.
“The purpose of the memorandum of understanding is to explore airline market development opportunities in the Kingdom,” Wizz Air said.
Wizz Air has already established a low-fares subsidiary in Abu Dhabi.
The airline said that its ultra-low-cost-carrier model “is proven to develop markets by making air travel affordable for more people than ever before”.
Wizz Air added: “The MoU reflects a shared vision between the parties on the potential Wizz Air could bring to the Kingdom to stimulate new demand, thereby making a significant contribution to Saudi Arabia’s planned growth.
“The parties will work together to enable potential investment and operating models to benefit and add to the Saudi Arabian aviation ecosystem, boosting its tourism industry and significantly increasing its connectivity.”