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FedEx expands direct operations in Saudi Arabia with new flights and regional hub

FedEx expands direct operations in Saudi Arabia with new flights and regional hub
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Richard W. Smith President and Chief Executive Officer Airline and International | FedEx

Federal Express Corporation (FedEx) has announced the completion of its transition to a direct-serve presence in Saudi Arabia. The company’s expansion includes the launch of its first dedicated flight into the country, plans for a regional hub at King Salman International Airport, and the introduction of FedEx Logistics freight forwarding services. These moves are designed to increase operational capacity and support job creation while aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy for economic diversification and integration into global trade.

A ceremony marking these developments took place in Diriyah, Riyadh, attended by senior Saudi officials and FedEx executives. His Excellency Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the Transport General Authority, said, “FedEx strengthened presence reflects the Kingdom’s growing appeal as a premier destination for logistics and global investment. Saudi Arabia’s rising influence as a key global logistics hub and a strategic gateway for trade and transport services is clear. The increasing number of leading global logistics and courier companies establishing direct operations in the Kingdom demonstrates the strength of Saudi Arabia’s logistics sector and its pro-investment environment, as well as the global confidence in the Kingdom’s transformation journey.”

Richard Smith, chief operating officer, International, and chief executive officer, Airline at FedEx added: “Our recent investments underscore Saudi Arabia’s role as a vital link in our global network, connecting major economies across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. By expanding in the Kingdom, we are broadening our network’s reach and creating faster, more dependable trade routes. As global commerce evolves, Saudi Arabia’s strategic position ensures we can move goods with both speed and scale to connect more people and possibilities.”

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Kami Viswanathan, president of FedEx Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa stated: “Our direct-serve operations in Saudi Arabia represent a pivotal step in our regional growth strategy to boost connectivity and service. By combining modern infrastructure, digital innovation, and integrated solutions, we are facilitating seamless trade and helping businesses in Saudi Arabia and across the region compete globally. This reflects our commitment to supporting Saudi Vision 2030 and cementing the Kingdom’s position as a logistics powerhouse.”

FedEx now directly manages pickup, delivery, customs clearance services within Saudi Arabia through four gateways and four stations supported by digital tools that improve shipping efficiency across supply chains.

The new dedicated flight makes FedEx the only express logistics company offering nonstop air connections from both the United States and Europe to Saudi Arabia. This service aims to enhance transit times between these markets. The planned regional hub in Riyadh will further connect international markets with countries such as Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar.

Additionally, FedEx has launched its Logistics division within Saudi Arabia to provide freight forwarding via air, road or ocean along with customs brokerage services—strengthening links between local businesses https://www.zawya.com/en/economy/gcc/saudi-arabias-trade-surplus-soars-52-to-168bln-in-q1-2025-s4q9g6w2 , GCC nations like Bahrain or Kuwait as well as South Asia or Africa.

Recent economic data shows that during Q1 2025 https://www.zawya.com/en/economy/gcc/saudi-arabias-trade-surplus-soars-52-to-168bln-in-q1-2025-s4q9g6w2 , Saudi Arabia achieved a trade surplus of $16.8 billion—a 52% rise over Q4 2024—demonstrating strong export activity amid growing demand for robust logistics infrastructure.

FedEx states that these efforts go beyond operational expansion by investing in infrastructure development; digital innovation; workforce training; all while supporting Vision 2030 goals aimed at making Saudi Arabia an international center for trade.

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