In a move aligned with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious aviation and logistics transformation agenda, Saudia Cargo and Tibah Airports Operation Company have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing air cargo operations and logistics capabilities at Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, reinforcing Madinah’s position as an emerging logistics gateway within the Kingdom.
The agreement was formalised during the 20th Steering Committee Meeting for the Activation of the National Aviation Sector Strategy, a key industry forum supporting the implementation of Saudi Arabia’s long-term aviation and logistics development roadmap.
The collaboration brings together Saudia Cargo’s international freight expertise and Tibah Airports’ strategic airport infrastructure capabilities to improve supply chain efficiency, expand cargo handling opportunities, and support the rapid growth of air freight demand across the region.
According to details released following the signing, the partnership will focus on strengthening operational capabilities at Madinah Airport through coordinated logistics initiatives, engagement with regulatory and governmental bodies, and the development of new cargo and export opportunities tailored to the region’s economic priorities.
A key component of the agreement includes the establishment of regular workshops, strategic consultations, and operational review sessions designed to modernise current logistics practices and identify new growth opportunities across the cargo ecosystem.
Both organisations will also work closely to facilitate the seamless exchange of operational data, industry expertise, and technical resources, supporting the development of a more integrated logistics platform in Madinah.
The initiative places a strong emphasis on operational efficiency, knowledge transfer, and service innovation. Through specialised training programmes, joint planning sessions, and continuous operational benchmarking, the two partners aim to enhance cargo handling performance while improving the customer experience for freight forwarders, exporters, and airline partners operating through Madinah.
As part of the commercial framework, Saudia Cargo will introduce preferential shipping rates designed to stimulate export activity and encourage greater cargo throughput from the Madinah region, particularly for time-sensitive and high-value shipments.
In return, Tibah Airports Operation Company will provide incentive programmes and operational support to strengthen Saudia Cargo’s activities at Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, creating a mutually supportive platform for long-term growth.
The partnership comes as Saudi Arabia continues accelerating investments under Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to position the Kingdom as a global logistics hub connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa. The National Aviation Strategy targets handling 4.5 million tonnes of air cargo annually by 2030, supported by expanded airport infrastructure, digital logistics platforms, and increased private sector participation.
Industry analysts note that Madinah’s geographic location, growing industrial base, and access to major domestic and international trade corridors make it increasingly attractive for logistics development, particularly as cargo operators diversify beyond traditional gateway airports.
With this agreement, Saudia Cargo and Tibah Airports are positioning Madinah not only as a major passenger destination but also as a strategic cargo centre capable of supporting the Kingdom’s growing export ambitions, e-commerce flows, pharmaceutical logistics, and regional supply chain connectivity.
