Private aviation company VistaJet has become the first international operator authorised to fly domestically within Saudi Arabia, marking a major step in the Kingdom’s aviation liberalisation.
The approval, granted by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) on August 20, 2025, follows a landmark policy shift on May 1, when GACA scrapped cabotage restrictions for on-demand charter flights. The move forms part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to attract investment, boost competition and cement its status as a global aviation hub under Vision 2030.
“Authorising VistaJet as the first international private jet operator for domestic operations in the Kingdom is a milestone in enhancing the general aviation market in Saudi Arabia,” said Awad Alsulami, Executive Vice President for Economic Policies & Logistics Services at GACA.
He added the change will “stimulate sector growth, and raise the quality of services for private aviation customers in the Kingdom and across the region.”
The reform is aligned with the Kingdom’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which aims to position Saudi Arabia as the Middle East’s leading aviation sector by 2030 and to transform the country into a logistics hub connecting Asia, Africa and Europe.
VistaJet has operated in Saudi Arabia for more than 15 years, longer than any other international operator. Demand for its services in the Kingdom has been climbing: during the first half of 2025, VistaJet reported a 32% year-on-year increase in Program Members from Saudi Arabia.
“The approval and recognition from GACA marks a significant milestone for Vista’s operations in the Kingdom,” said Nick van der Meer, Vista’s Chief Commercial Officer.
“By expanding our domestic capabilities, we are not only strengthening our regional presence but also amplifying the efficiency of our global fleet. We are proud to support Vision 2030 and grateful to the leadership and the GACA team for making this possible.”
The decision to authorise VistaJet comes as Saudi Arabia seeks to grow its tourism sector and accommodate a projected surge in passenger numbers. The reforms are designed to support greater choice and quality for private aviation customers, while encouraging foreign operators to invest in the Kingdom.
According to GACA, the initiative is an “important step in advancing the objectives of the Aviation Program”, ensuring the country is on track to meet its 2030 goals.