GLOBAL AIRPORT FORUM (GAF) 2025: Riyadh

On December 16 and 17, Théo Castex took part in the Global Airport Forum in Saudi Arabia, a major event bringing together airport stakeholders from around the world in support of the Kingdom’s development. The forum provided a privileged setting for discussions on the current and future challenges of airport development, particularly in a region undergoing rapid transformation.

FRACS’ participation in this forum fully aligns with the mission of its Airport Development Department, which supports airport authorities and operators in optimizing their airport platforms. The Middle East, and Saudi Arabia in particular, is currently experiencing an unprecedented investment dynamic, driven by ambitious national strategies aimed at strengthening air connectivity, enhancing the passenger experience, and supporting economic diversification through tourism.

The Global Airport Forum offered the opportunity to meet numerous local and regional stakeholders, including airport operators, engineering firms, and architectural practices. The event also made it possible to reconnect with colleagues and partners, as well as to establish new relationships. These exchanges contributed to a better understanding of the specific priorities of the regional market, whether related to increasing airport capacity, integrating sustainability challenges, developing connectivity, or supporting the Kingdom’s strategic ambitions.

Passenger demand studies, as well as traffic analysis and forecasting, were at the heart of the discussions.

Beyond commercial opportunities, this participation strengthened the understanding of the challenges and constraints specific to airport projects in the country.