October 22nd 2024.
In 2030, the world will witness the opening of the largest airport ever built. Flying has always been an exhilarating experience, from watching planes take off to enjoying a pint before your flight. And now, aviation enthusiasts have a new destination to look forward to: King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With a whopping £23 billion budget, this mammoth airport will feature six massive runways, spanning over 57 square kilometers. But that's not all - 12 square kilometers have been dedicated to retail outlets, so you can indulge in some shopping while waiting to board your flight.
The airport's design is being overseen by Foster + Partners, a company that has previously worked on iconic projects like the Midtown Bus Terminal in New York City and the new Marseille Airport. King Salman International Airport will replace the current terminals at King Khalid International Airport, which has been in operation since 1983. This ambitious project is expected to create 150,000 new jobs, from air traffic controllers to baristas.
While the airlines that will operate out of King Salman International Airport have not been announced yet, construction is already underway to make this airport a bustling hub for travelers. It is estimated to serve 120 million passengers initially, with that number expected to rise to 185 million by 2050. This development is part of a larger plan to boost tourism in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.
As we eagerly wait for the opening of this grand airport, here are some must-visit tourist spots in Riyadh: The National Museum, Al Rajhi Mosque, Riyadh Zoo Monument, Wadi Namar Waterfall, Grenada Mall, and Masmak Fortress. These attractions are perfect for planning your trip ahead of time and experiencing the rich culture and history of Saudi Arabia.
Currently, the largest airport in the world is King Fahd International Airport in Saudi Arabia, covering an area of 299 square miles. It was previously used as a US airbase during the Gulf War and now serves 43 destinations. With its impressive size and operations, it is no surprise that the construction cost of King Salman International Airport is estimated at £23 billion.
This new airport is a significant step towards transforming Riyadh into a top tourist destination. As stated by the Saudi Press Agency, "The airport project is in line with Saudi Arabia's vision to transform Riyadh into one of the top ten city economies in the world and support the city's population growth, estimated to reach 15-20 million people by 2030." Currently, the third-largest airport in Saudi Arabia in terms of passenger volume, King Salman International Airport is set to become a major player in the global aviation industry.
Indeed, King Salman International Airport is a symbol of progress and growth for the city of Riyadh and the entire country of Saudi Arabia. With its impressive size and grandeur, it will surely be an experience to remember for all those who travel through its doors. As we await its opening in 2030, let's also celebrate the other largest airports in the world, such as Denver International Airport, Istanbul Airport, and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, just to name a few. The world of aviation is constantly evolving, and we can't wait to see what the future holds.
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