WAGA 2024 Opens In Riyadh Under GACA Leadership, Showcasing Saudi's Aviation Influence

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej inaugurated the Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific & Middle East / ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition (WAGA 2024) today. The three-day event, hosted by Riyadh Airports, features participation from aviation leaders, airport CEOs, and over 800 specialists globally.

This marks the first time WAGA is held in the Middle East, highlighting Saudi Arabia's significant role in airport management and aviation. The Kingdom is acknowledged as a major player and influential force at local, regional, and international levels. The event's theme, "The Global Race: How to Stand Out in a Competitive Airport Ecosystem," addresses crucial topics such as the Kingdom's role in the global air transport industry.

Riyadh Airports' contributions to the Kingdom's strategic goals and a comprehensive overview of the company's key achievements at various levels will be discussed. This will further solidify Riyadh Airports' role in fulfilling the objectives of the national transport and logistics strategy. Riyadh Airports Company CEO Ayman AboAbah welcomed international attendees, commending Riyadh Airports' efforts in advancing Saudi Arabia's airport management system.

ACI World Director General Luis Felipe de Oliveira expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia's hospitality. He praised Riyadh Airports' capabilities in hosting WAGA 2024, affirming that these efforts will enhance the future of airport management. ACI Asia Pacific & Middle East Director General Stefano Baronci stated that WAGA 2024 holds immense significance as it is being held in the Middle East for the first time.

Concurrent Events

Riyadh Airports' hosting of WAGA 2024 coincides with the third edition of the Future Aviation Forum (FAF 2024), organized by GACA. During this significant week for the Kingdom's civil aviation sector, Riyadh will host several key events, including the Seventh Meeting of the Directors General of Civil Aviation-Middle East Region; the Regional Safety Oversight Organization (RSOO) for the Middle East and North Africa; the Airports Awards Ceremony; and the First Security Forum of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO).

ICAO Facilitation 2024 Global Summit

The ICAO Facilitation 2024 Global Summit will also be held for the first time among other notable events. Hosting these major events underscores Saudi Arabia's leading role in the aviation sector and its dedication to advancing and growing the industry globally.

With inputs from SPA