The Saudi Civil Aviation Holding Company (MATARAT) in collaboration with the National Center for Privatization & PPP (NCP), has received Bidder’s Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the proposed Abha Airport Public Private Partnership Project (PPP) located in Abha City, Saudi Arabia.

The MATARAT and the NCP have outlined plans to introduce a second passenger terminal, developed by London-based architect Foster + Partners, along with a taxiway and aircraft apron. The construction of these facilities is intended to occur in two or three phases, with the terminal set to accommodate its initial passengers by 2028. The comprehensive project also encompasses additional components such as access roads, a parking facility, and essential utilities like a substation and sewage treatment plant. Foster's terminal design is structured as a series of interconnected clusters, each customized for specific functions and passenger requirements. These clusters are complemented by open courtyards and pathways, reflecting the architectural style of the region's villages. Abha, currently the fifth-largest airport in the kingdom following Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, and Madinah, is poised to expand its capacity to handle up to 8 million passengers annually after the completion of the expansion, positioning it as a small-to-medium-sized facility.

Over 100 companies from around the world, including established names like Saudi Binladin Group and Limak Insaat, have expressed interest in developing the New Abha International Airport in Saudi Arabia. Local and international firms from diverse sectors like construction, engineering, investment, and aviation have submitted their proposals. Among the notable names are Adani Airport Holdings, Bouygues Batiment International, Corporacion America Airports, GMR Airports, and Korea Airports Corporation.