Saudi Arabia Opens Prince Naif Airport to Private Investment

A Strategic Shift in Saudi Aviation Infrastructure

In a significant move to bolster Saudi Arabia’s aviation capacity and logistical footprint, Matarat Holding—in close coordination with the National Center for Privatization & PPP (NCP)—has officially launched the prequalification phase for the development of Prince Naif Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ). This initiative marks a pivotal step in the Kingdom’s broader privatization strategy, aiming to attract private sector expertise and capital to modernize critical national infrastructure.

The project, which centers on the expansion and operation of the airport located in Buraydah, Qassim, is being structured as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP). By inviting international and local developers to participate in the prequalification stage, the Saudi government is signaling its commitment to shifting from a state-led operational model to a more collaborative, market-driven approach for its aviation hubs.

The Scope of the Privatization Mandate

The engagement of the NCP is central to this process, ensuring that the procurement follows international standards of transparency and efficiency. For institutional investors and infrastructure developers, the Prince Naif Airport project represents a clear opportunity to participate in the 'Vision 2030' framework, which seeks to transform the Kingdom into a global logistics and travel hub.

While the specific financial details regarding the total capital expenditure (CAPEX) for the development are yet to be finalized, the prequalification phase serves as the critical gatekeeper. Interested parties are expected to demonstrate robust technical capabilities, financial solvency, and a proven track record in managing large-scale airport infrastructure projects. The collaboration between Matarat and the NCP is designed to minimize risk for stakeholders while maximizing the operational efficiency of the airport facility.