Investment Ministry: Development of Local Investments is Major Catalyst of Saudi Economy

Dr. Saad Alshahrani participates in a session at the Priority Summit in Miami. Asharq Al-Awsat
Dr. Saad Alshahrani participates in a session at the Priority Summit in Miami. Asharq Al-Awsat
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Investment Ministry: Development of Local Investments is Major Catalyst of Saudi Economy

Dr. Saad Alshahrani participates in a session at the Priority Summit in Miami. Asharq Al-Awsat
Dr. Saad Alshahrani participates in a session at the Priority Summit in Miami. Asharq Al-Awsat

The Saudi Investment Deputy Minister for Economic Affairs and Investment Studies, Dr. Saad Alshahrani, has stressed that the development of local investments is a major driver of the Saudi economy, pointing out that the economic performance of the Gulf region and the Middle East has made it attract more foreign investments.

He cited the significant growth achieved by the Kingdom in the last three years in the volume of local and foreign investments.
In a statement to the Saudi Press Agency during his participation in the Priority Summit in Miami, Al-Shahrani pointed out that fixed capital formation achieved a growth of 29% in 2022.
The number of issued investment licenses in recent years, reached nearly 9,000 licenses issued during 2023 while previously, it did not exceed 400 licenses.

The investment opportunities before launching the National Investment Strategy (NIS) were approximately 200, and today there are approximately 1,600 investment opportunities in different quality industries and multiple regions in the Kingdom, through 40 initiatives and four pillars.
Al-Shahrani said that the National Investment Strategy signifies Saudi Arabia's commitment to diversifying its economy and catalyzing growth through strategic investments, adding that the comprehensive incentives program, including 30-year tax exemptions, showcases Saudi Arabia's determination to attract and support global investors in key sectors like manufacturing and technology.



Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
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Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)

flynas, Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 75 A320neo family aircraft and 15 A330-900. This strategic agreement will expand the airline's capacity, range and enhance its overall fleet capabilities.
Signed during Farnborough International Airshow in the presence of President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, Chairman of the Board of NAS Holding Ayed Al Jeaid, flynas Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Bandar Almohanna, and Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer, Airbus said on its website.
The new aircraft will join the carrier’s all Airbus fleet serving international, domestic and regional routes. The new A330-900 aircraft will boast a two-class configuration, accommodating up to 400 passengers.
"We are excited to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with Airbus," said Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas. "The A320neo Family provides exceptional operational performance and environmental benefits, allowing us to offer unique, low-cost travel experiences. Additionally, the A330neowill enhance our long-haul capabilities with its advanced technology and efficiency while supporting our growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s pilgrim program."
Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer said, "We are delighted to expand our partnership with flynas through this significant milestone for both A320neo and A330-900 aircraft. The A330neo will allow flynas to further grow into widebody markets by building on the A320, benefiting from Airbus’ unique commonality. Both aircraft types offer flynas the perfect versatility and economics to expand into new markets while offering their passengers the latest cabin experience and comfort. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with flynas as they embark on this exciting new chapter."
The addition of the A330-900 aircraft will support flynas' ambitious growth plans. The airline anticipates significant operational efficiency gains by combining the new widebody aircraft with its existing A320neo fleet. The A330-900 offers increased capacity and range at unrivaled seat costs, ensuring flynas can compete effectively in the growing regional market, a key focus area for the airline.
The A330neo delivers unbeatable operating economics, powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, featuring new wings and a range of aerodynamic innovations resulting in a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The A330neo is capable of flying 8,150 nm / 15,094 km non-stop, providing ultimate comfort with more passenger space, a new lighting system, latest in-flight entertainment systems and full connectivity throughout the cabin.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330 family is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The manufacturer is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.