Riyadh to host Routes World 2026, cargo volumes rise

Saudi airports handled 575,000 tonnes of cargo in H1 2025, reinforcing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s status as a fast-growing logistics and trade hub, said His Excellency Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President, GACA, and Chairman, Matarat Holding. The figure was highlighted following Riyadh’s selection to host the 31st World Route Development Forum (Routes World 2026) — a premier air connectivity platform where airlines and airports map future routes. The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) leads the hosting effort, in partnership with the air connectivity programme and Matarat Holding. Routes World attracts global aviation decision-makers to discuss route development and cargo opportunities. The cargo throughput, alongside infra and connectivity investments, supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goal of becoming a central gateway between Asia, Africa and Europe.