Bahrain’s Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa officially opened the 2024 Bahrain International Airshow at Sakhir Airbase on Wednesday, with a strong turnout of regional and international aviation companies, policymakers, and industry professionals.
After the opening, Crown Prince Salman highlighted that key sectors play a vital role in supporting Bahrain’s economic diversification, helping to meet both current goals and future ambitions.
He also noted that Bahrain’s long history of hosting successful events shows the country’s commitment to achieving its development goals, including strengthening its position as a leading destination for global exhibitions and conferences.
During his visit to the exhibition, the Crown Prince expressed pride in the growing participation of aviation organizations.
Gulf countries have strengthened their position as key players in the global aviation industry, attracting major airlines and cutting-edge technologies, officials told Asharq Al-Awsat.
This year’s Bahrain International Airshow saw a 30% increase in participation compared to the last edition, with more companies and a wider range of equipment and technologies on display.
The event features 223 delegations from over 56 countries and 60 regional and international companies.
Mohammed Al-Khreisi, Vice President of Strategy and Business Intelligence at Saudi Arabia's Civil Aviation Authority, explained that Saudi Arabia’s participation highlights the country’s aviation achievements, investment opportunities, and global leadership.
He also emphasized the importance of Saudi Arabia hosting the upcoming Future of Aviation Forum.
In a comment to Asharq Al-Awsat during the opening ceremony, Al-Khreisi said the Kingdom’s participation highlights efforts to develop regulations that foster growth and innovation in aviation.
He pointed to the National Aviation Strategy, which aims to attract $100 billion in investments, increase passengers to 330 million, and connect Saudi Arabia to 250 international destinations by 2030.
Al-Khreisi added that Saudi Arabia also aims to showcase advanced air transport, sustainability programs, and efforts to improve passenger safety and experience, reinforcing its leadership in global aviation.
