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2025 marks a significant milestone as daa International celebrates three years of successful collaboration with Jeddah Airports Company, Jedco, at King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Since the commencement of it’s five-year contract in March 2022, daa International has worked closely with Jedco to enhance airport operations, aviation business development, commercial, facilities and maintenance across the main terminals and airfield, excluding the Hajj and Royal Terminals.
Here’s an insight into KAIA’s success story over the past 3 year;
Since the beginning of our partnership in Terminal 1, KAIA has experienced a 60% increase in passenger traffic, growing from the start of 2022 to over 50 million passengers by January 2025. This remarkable growth has been achieved through the introduction of new international airlines, supporting the expansion of local national carriers. The new airlines introduced include national flag carriers such as British Airways and Singapore Airlines, as well as low-cost carriers like Wizz Air, Eurowings, and Thai AirAsia.
Strengthening Commercial Success: Fourfold Growth in Non-Aeronautical Revenues
In collaboration our client Jedco and the local team at KAIA, commercial non-aeronautical revenues at the airport have quadrupled since 2022. This success has been driven by a strategic approach to enhancing commercial opportunities, including the realignment of over 300 commercial contracts to support Jedco’s new business model through retenders, novation’s, and renegotiations. In 2025 alone, revenue has increased by 14% compared to 2024, further reinforcing the long-term commercial growth trajectory since daa International began supporting commercial activities at KAIA.
Welcoming new airlines to King Abdulaziz International Airport
Key Commercial Achievements
daa International has supported Jedco in successfully delivering major tenders that have enhanced KAIA’s international standing, including:
Duty Paid: Awarded to The Visitor by the Chalhoub Group.
Duty Free: Managed through the JAH partnership, led by Heinemann Group.
Food & Beverage (F&B): Multi-site contract awarded to the SSP Group.
Cargo Operations: SATS appointed as the new cargo operator.
In-Flight Catering: Contracts secured by Catrion and Gate Gourmet.
Fuel Providers: JAFTO manages the centralised fuel farm, while APSCO serves as one of the primary into-plane operators.
Transportation: state of the art technical systems and International O&M standards on the landside KAIA Campus and due for completion later this year
Key Faculties Management Achievements
Over the 3-year period, the Facilities Management (FM) team has played a critical role in enhancing operational efficiency, asset reliability, safety, and passenger experience.
Embedding a Culture of Health & Safety Awareness
Mobilising and Embedding Performance-Based FM Service Contracts
Achieving High Asset Performance and Availability
The team have consistently exceeded performance availability targets for critical assets, including:
These exceptional performance levels have ensured minimal disruption to passenger operations, contributing to KAIA’s record-breaking passenger handling milestones.
Enhancing Passenger Experience and Cleanliness Standards
CEO, Eng. Mazen Johar and Head of Passenger Experience Georgios Efkolidis receiving the 4-Star
Strengthening Emergency Preparedness and Business Continuity
Driving a Risk-Based Asset Management Approach
First ITA flight ceremony with Jedco and ITA members
Key Operations Achievements
278,000 flights processed, an 11% increase from 2023.
And through our collaborative efforts, KAIA has reached remarkable operational milestones in 2024 including:
Going Beyond Our Scope: Supporting Jedco During Peak Periods
daa International consistently goes beyond its contractual scope by bringing in industry experts from our network and our airports at Dublin and Cork to support KAIA during peak operational periods, such as Ramadan and Hajj. This year, we were honoured to support Jedco with a team of seasoned professionals who assisted in managing increased passenger volumes, ensuring seamless operations and an enhanced traveller experience.
Arrival of the 2025 Group 1; part-time support team from Dublin Airport, welcomed by daa International colleagues.
Empowering Airport Leaders Through Knowledge Transfer
A key component of our partnership has been supporting Jedco in developing in-house commercial expertise. daa International has delivered over 1,100 hours of commercial training to the local commercial department as well as delivering international operations programmes to KAIA team members. These include the advanced ‘IMTYAZ’ (operations) and ‘ERTIQAA’ (commercial) training programs,designed to cultivate the next generation of industry leaders through hands-on learning, immersive familiarisation along with leadership training in both Saudi Arabia and Ireland.
SVP Marketing and Product Michael Martin, presenting to Jedco’s IMTYAZ group at Dublin Airport 2024
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this 3 year milestone, daa International remains committed to working closely with Jedco to drive further innovation, enhance passenger experiences and support the continued growth of King Abdulaziz International Airport in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. With a shared focus on operational excellence, best in class facilities management as well as commercial expansion, we continue to work hard towards furthering our contributions in making KAIA a leading global aviation hub.
Technical training on the runway with the Bohol-Panglao airport team
Preparing for takeover with Aboitiz Capital
There’s never a dull moment and always plenty of planning and excitement for the team at daa International. One of our standout projects right now is in the Philippines, where we’re delighted to support our partners at Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) as they prepare to take over operations at Laguindingan Airport and New Bohol-Panglao International Airport.As the appointed airport technical advisors to Aboitiz InfraCapital, our team is working both remotely and on the ground and dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition and set the foundations for world-class airport operations. From systems readiness to airside infrastructure and operational planning, our experts are proud to be part of this transformational journey.This week, our airport engineering expert, Henry Poh – CEng FICE FIEI led a technical training session with the Bohol-Panglao team starting directly on the runway, a great snapshot of the collaborative spirit and hands-on work driving this transition forward.Earlier this year, AIC was awarded the PHP 4.53-billion contract to operate and maintain New Bohol-Panglao International Airport. With a phased handover of Laguindingan International Airport already underway, AIC is advancing toward its vision of modernising key transport hubs — enhancing efficiency, improving passenger experience, and growing inclusive development across the Philippines.We’re proud to be part of this journey with Aboitiz InfraCapital empowering sustainable, connected, and customer-focused airport operations in the Philippines.
PPG set to establish ‘Plaza Premium First’ in Saudi Arabia, exclusively at RSI
Riyadh, March 2025 – daa International has announced a groundbreaking strategic partnership with Plaza Premium Group (PPG), a global leader in airport hospitality, for the management of food & beverage services at Red Sea International Airport (RSI). This collaboration will see PPG implement its exceptional Plaza Premium First standards in Saudi Arabia for the first time, further reinforcing RSI’s position as a best-in-class airport that blends seamless efficiency with premium hospitality.
PPG will manage a range of premium services that include four premium lounges for passengers, five F&B outlets, and seven dining rooms catering to airport staff. In a first for Saudi Arabia, the premium departure lounges will deliver a fully a la carte dining experience for all passengers as a luxurious final touchpoint on their departure journey.
Andrew Tyler-Smith, Chief Executive Officer of RSI, added:“Our partnership with Plaza Premium Group marks an exciting step forward in delivering an elevated airport experience. By combining our expertise in airport management with Plaza Premium Group’s global excellence in hospitality, we are setting a new standard for comfort, service, and innovation. We look forward to welcoming travellers to our premium lounges and dining spaces, where every detail is designed to enhance their journey.”
The new RSI airport has been thoughtfully designed to draw inspiration from the natural beauty of the desert, the serenity of a green oasis, and the vastness of the sea. This innovative design aims to eliminate the usual stresses associated with travel, offering passengers a tranquil and memorable experience from the moment they arrive.
The terminal’s architecture is crafted to bring the exclusive feel of a private aircraft terminal to every traveller. By creating smaller, intimate spaces, the airport ensures a luxurious and personalized experience for all passengers. The lounges and F&B outlets will be meticulously designed to provide a luxurious and relaxing environment, perfectly aligning with the sustainable and high-end ethos of The Red Sea destination.
Bora Isbulan, Deputy CEO of Plaza Premium Group, commented on the partnership: “We are delighted to embark on this venture with daa International through the innovative Red Sea International Airport, a pioneering project in sustainable tourism. Our collaboration aims to transform the airport into a top-tier destination that resonates with the most discerning international and domestic travellers.”
RSI is developed by Red Sea Global and serves as the primary gateway to The Red Sea destination, which welcomed its first guests in 2023, and now has five hotels open. Situated within three hours’ flying time of 250 million people and eight hours’ flying time for 85% of the world’s population, RSI has been receiving a regular schedule of domestic flights since September 2023 and international flights began in April 2024, with a twice-weekly route between The Red Sea and Dubai International.
Here’s a peek into the remarkable journey, of Red Sea International Airport (RSI)!
It all started, four years ago, when daa International proudly partnered with Red Sea Global (RSG) to operate Rec Sea International Airport as part of The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia’s visionary destination. Today, we reflect on the ambitious milestones achieved through collaboration, our team’s 85 years of collective airport expertise, and the trusted, flexible approach that defines our Irish roots.
Our success has been reinforced by the confidence placed in us by Red Sea Global’s CEO, John Pagano, who stated: “When we selected daa International as our partner, Red Sea International Airport (RSI) was still just a collection of great designs and ambitious ideas. We needed a partner that believed in the vision and could help us deliver it into reality. Today, RSI is within a three-hour flight of 250 million people and an eight-hour flight for 85% of the world’s population. It currently receives a regular schedule of domestic and international flights, with more airlift expected in the future. As we complete the final stages of the main terminal building, daa Internationals ongoing support is integral to creating an airport experience worthy of our luxury destination while making RSI the first airport in Saudi to offer Sustainable Aviation Fuel and the region’s first-ever airport powered by 100 percent renewable energy.”
What have we achieved to date?
When our CEO, Nick Cole, declared our commitment to deliver a one-of-a-kind airport experience, he set the vision, and we’re proud to say we’ve exceeded expectations. Here’s what we’ve accomplished:
Stage One: Customer-centric airport designs
Stage Two: Seamless commissioning of RSI
Stage Three: Operating at the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and guest experience. Ongoing—and thriving.
How Do We Make it Happen?
Our end-to-end approach has seen RSI recognised as a global benchmark for innovation and passenger satisfaction. daa International is responsible for the entire operation of RSI including, but not limited to:
Airfield and Terminal Operations
Aviation Services
Facilities Management
Commercial Activities Oversight
Corporate and Financial Services
Four Reasons RSI Stands Out
1. Putting the Environment First: development at The Red Sea destination was limited to accommodate no more than one million visitors a year, and RSI’s passenger numbers are capped in line with this.
2. Architectural Inspiration: designed by Foster + Partners, RSI embodies the sand dunes and natural beauty of its surroundings.
3. Unrivalled Guest Experience: the airport is divided into five mini terminals (pods) which produce a peaceful and luxurious passenger experience only generally enjoyed by private aviation passengers.
4. Sustainability at its Core: RSI’s airfield is already 100% powered by solar energy and the entire airport will be 100% powered by renewable energy by the end of 2025.
Another exciting milestone for us and the team at The Red Sea International Airport (RSI). We are delighted to announce, in a groundbreaking partnership, Jetex will manage the private aviation terminal at Red Sea International Airport (RSI), bringing unparalleled luxury and service to Saudi Arabia’s western coast.
The partnership was formalised through an agreement between Jetex and daa International as the operator of RSI on behalf of Red Sea Global (RSG). This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to delivering exceptional, sustainable aviation experiences in line with The Red Sea’s vision.
The Red Sea International Airport’s innovative design features five independent ‘mini terminals, each offering a unique passenger experience. One of these terminals, dedicated exclusively to private aviation, will be operated by Jetex.
Dubai-based Jetex was selected as RSI’s fixed-base operator following a competitive tender process. This marks Jetex’s first major venture into the Saudi market. As part of the agreement, Jetex will outfit the private aviation terminal and provide comprehensive private jet services, including terminal management, aircraft handling, concierge services, and sustainable luxury airport transfers.
Jetex, known globally for excellence in executive aviation, will bring extensive expertise in private terminal operations and ground services, aligning perfectly with RSI’s ambitions.
This partnership marks a new chapter in luxury travel, setting the stage for RSI to become a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and world-class service.
daa International is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NERA, an innovative and technological solutions and services company, which together with daa International will mark the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at driving innovation and creating new development opportunities within the aviation industry. “We are thrilled to partner with NERA, a company that shares our vision for innovation and excellence in the aviation industry,” said Nicholas Cole CEO of daa International. Nick continued to explain “This MoU signifies our commitment to working together to create new opportunities for growth and development. By combining our expertise, we can achieve greater efficiencies and deliver superior services to our clients and stakeholders.”
This partnership between daa International and NERA will open avenues for collaboration, allowing both parties to leverage their strengths, share best practices, and pool their knowledge and resources. The MoU outlines a framework for cooperation, to investigate and explore new opportunities for air-traffic services and airport operations and to explore additional areas of collaboration and cooperation that may arise during the duration of this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by exchange of experiences, expertise, and knowledge through joint steering committees, working groups or subcommittees.
The CEO of Nera, Engineer Khalid Attiah confirmed that Nera exists to achieve local, regional and global leadership in innovative operational and technical services to provide diverse solutions and form essential partnerships for the growth of the aviation sector and contribute to achieving the highest level of compliance with the requirement of international aviation organisations and authorities. He pointed out that the MoU with daa International aims to enhance the strategic partnership between the two companies and take advantage of their strengths and experiences; to identify potential areas of co-operations related to air traffic management, airport operations and maintenance, which can enhance the efficiency, safety and sustainability of air traffic.
daa International will work alongside the newly established European Chamber of Commerce in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (ECCKSA). “At daa International, we’re honoured to be part of this historic initiative and thrilled to join the European Chamber of Commerce in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (ECCKSA). This is a groundbreaking collaboration between the European Union (EU) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and is poised to shape the future of EU-KSA collaboration while expanding international relations and promoting business development within KSA”, said Nick Cole, CEO daa International at the recent ECCKSA event launch.Nick extended a heartfelt congratulations to his team, Lorcan Tyrrell and John Sisson, who have been appointed board members of the European Chamber of Commerce in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (ECCKSA). Nick expressed his excitement for daa International to contribute to this valuable project, emphasising our commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s vision now and into the future. Lorcan Tyrrell, Chairperson of the Board, is passionate about creating new business opportunities through collaboration and believes that ‘Saudi Arabia’s ambitious vision2030 and it’s giga-projects, present immense potential for European businesses to contribute to and support.’ Lorcan further explained “I really look forward to the future working with businesses and Governments in Europe & Saudi Arabia and witnessing the value the European Chamber of Commerce in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (ECCKSA) will bring.”The future is indeed bright for daa International as we continue to invest in #Saudi Arabia and expand our scope. Since 2016, daa International has played a pivotal role in airport operations in KSA and provides consulting services for Riyadh Airports, at King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) while in 2020 was awarded an O&M contract to operate and maintain the Red Sea International Airport on behalf of Red Sea Global as part of the country’s Vision2030 giga projects. Two years later, we celebrated once more when we won a 5-year contract from Jedco KSA to manage and support airport operations, aviation business development, commercial and facilities management at King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA), Jeddah.As we look beyond, the team are working on projects in Australia, Canada, Philippines and the UK with many more exciting ventures on the horizon.Enjoy the journey with us as we embark on this remarkable venture with ECCKSA, bringing global standards, business collaboration and expand a culture of knowledge exchange between the European Union and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
For membership application and brochure click here: www.eccksa.eu
We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to the commercial professionals from Jedco KSA, as they embark on a transformative 2-week international knowledge transfer module Dublin Airport! This collaboration marks a significant milestone in nurturing global partnerships and sharing invaluable insights in the realm of commercial excellence.
daa International is honoured to offer this unique opportunity, reinforcing our commitment to supporting growth and cultivating a culture of continuous learning. With an illustrious history spanning over 80 years, we are eager to share our wealth of commercial knowledge and expertise with our valued guests from Jedco.
This knowledge transfer initiative is more than just a collaboration; it’s a testament to the power of cross-cultural exchange and the belief in the collective strength of our global community. As we join forces, our goal is clear – to empower the team at KAIA and contribute to the leadership development at King Abdulaziz Airport, Jeddah.
The program is meticulously crafted to encompass a diverse range of topics, including operational efficiency, customer experience enhancement, revenue optimisation, and sustainable business practices. Through interactive workshops, insightful discussions, and hands-on experiences, we aim to create a dynamic learning environment that transcends geographical boundaries.
At daa International, we understand the significance of nurturing talent and building strong, resilient teams. By sharing our experiences, challenges, and successes, we hope to inspire fresh perspectives and innovative approaches within the Jedco team. This exchange is not just about acquiring knowledge but creating a lasting connection and friendships that transcend borders.
No #1. Safety and compliance are non-negotiables for daa. That’s why we’re proud to announce that daa has just become one of the first airport operators in the world to achieve ISO 37301:2021 certification for its Group Safety Compliance Management System. daa’s Safety and Compliance team achieved this significant milestone by demonstrating the company’s commitment to developing and maintaining a culture of safety compliance across our airports.
This new ISO Certification ensures that passengers and staff utilising the largest and busiest airports in Ireland can take comfort knowing that the highest standards of safety are being set and then continually assessed and improved. ISO 37301:2021 is a new global standard for compliance management systems requiring organisations to demonstrate their commitment to adhering to the principles of: integrity, good governance, proportionality, transparency, and accountability. The scope of our certified Compliance Management System encompasses all activities carried out by daa’s Safety Regulation and Compliance team that relate to Aviation Safety and Occupational Health and Safety.
daa International awards Serco, a leading provider of essential services, an eight-year contract, valued at SAR 157m to deliver aviation fire rescue and paramedical services at Red Sea International Airport in Saudi Arabia.
Serco will support the Red Sea International Airport, a new key hub in Saudi Arabia, by providing specialist capability to enable Category 7 services, which requires specialist trained fire rescue and paramedic personnel that operate and maintain a modern fleet of highly specialised emergency vehicles and equipment to assure the safety of airport operations. These services are crucial to meet the regulatory requirements set by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and ensures the safety and security of all airport operations.
To service the contract, Serco has hired a highly skilled team of 65 professionals to provide critical fire and rescue services at Red Sea International Airport. In the lead up to the contract start date, Serco has attracted and trained Saudi nationals to fulfill the entire critical operation of the emergency dispatch and control room function.
Serco Middle East CEO, Phil Malem said: “We are committed to working with daa International to ensure that the Red Sea International Airport is one of the safest in the world. Serco has a long history of providing fire and rescue services, and our team is dedicated to ensuring the safety of passengers, aircraft and airport infrastructure, contributing to the smooth and efficient operation of the airport. We continue to make an impact and bring national visions to life by supporting Saudi’s Vision 2030 through our work across the Kingdom.”
CEO Red Sea International Airport, Paul O’ Donovan said: “Serco’s world-class expertise and track record of success make them the perfect partner to help us ensure the safety of the airport’s passengers and staff. We are excited to work with Serco to make Red Sea International Airport a model of safety for airports around the world. This 8-year agreement opens the door to a long-term partnership dedicated to ensuring the safety of our guests and staff at Red Sea International Airport (RSI).
SUADIA commence new twice-weekly service from Riyadh to Red Sea International Airport (RSI)
daa International is honoured to share this day with Red Sea Global (RSG) and SAUDIA as we celebrate the first flight to the Red Sea International Airport (RSI), which touched down on the newly constructed runway earlier this historic day, 21 September 2023.
Departing from the King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh every Thursday and Saturday, this two-hour flight with SAUDIA, signals the commencement of a new twice-weekly service that will seamlessly connect guests to the captivating allure of The Red Sea.
Group CEO of Red Sea Global, John Pagano explained “We promised to make The Red Sea a place where people from all around the world would come to experience the best of Saudi culture, hospitality, and nature. Now, with the first flight touching down at Red Sea International Airport, and our first resorts receiving bookings, Saudi Arabia’s position on the global tourism map is all but secured”.
Strategically located within an eight-hour flight radius from 85 percent of the world’s population, Red Sea International airport is poised to welcome international flights starting next year, coinciding with the opening of additional phase one resorts.
Together, we embark on an extraordinary journey of adventure, culture, and sustainability with our Partners.
Today, we are elated to share a momentous achievement as the operator of Red Sea International airport. In collaboration with our partners Red Sea Global (RSG) and Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA), we have officially signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that is set to redefine the aviation landscape in Saudi Arabia.
This historic partnership is nothing short of ground-breaking, with SAUDIA poised to become the inaugural airline to operate in and out of the Red Sea International airport (RSI). As we gear up for the highly anticipated opening of RSI later this year, alongside the debut of the first three resorts at The Red Sea destination, we are thrilled to announce that RSI will initially facilitate domestic flights to and from Riyadh, followed by Jeddah, before spreading its wings to handle international flights from 2024 onwards.
John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, encapsulates the essence of our journey by stating, “In 2016, His Royal Highness, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, set out a vision for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—a vision for a thriving country, one that was recognised as a global hub, where people from all around the world would come to experience the best of Saudi culture, hospitality, and nature.”
This monumental agreement is a testament to our commitment to this vision, and it is only fitting that SAUDIA, the Kingdom’s flag carrier, will lead the way from our destination.
Beyond marking SAUDIA’s regular scheduled services to and from RSI, this partnership also signifies a commitment to sustainable aviation. We are excited to embark on a journey that explores the use of Lower Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF) and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at Red Sea International Airport.Capt. Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of SAUDIA, summarises the significance of this agreement: “Today’s agreement marks a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s aviation history. As wings of Vision 2030, SAUDIA’s contribution is to be an enabler in attaining giga projects targets, and our involvement as the first airline to operate to and from Red Sea International airport is a source of pride for us all. This agreement will strengthen our position in the Kingdom and allow us to collaborate with RSG and daa International to boost tourism and enhance the country’s standing within international aviation.”
Building upon our existing relationship with RSG as the operator of its international airport, daa International remains steadfast in its commitment. We will continue to manage and operate the airport and work closely with SAUDIA to ensure a truly memorable passenger experience. Nicholas Cole, CEO of daa International, passionately affirms, “Red Sea International is a new gateway for travellers to experience the wonders of Saudi Arabia. Bringing our unmatched airport management expertise, we will work with RSG and SAUDIA to ensure RSI delivers a truly unique experience for all who pass through it.”
In the coming year, we eagerly anticipate the opening of three spectacular resorts at The Red Sea, in tandem with the launch of the first phase of the Red Sea International airport. This marks the beginning of an incredible journey that will ultimately see the destination comprising 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also feature luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment, dining, and leisure facilities.
daa International and Currie & Brown are proud to announce an innovative and unique offering to the North American aviation market, aimed to support airport operators, airlines and partners alike. As aviation across the world faces challenges with operational efficiency, aging infrastructure and embracing new technological advancements, the collaboration of daa International and Currie & Brown will provide the sector with a combination of commercial airport operations, project programming, procurement and cost control expertise. Paul Fitch, senior director at Currie & Brown and David Wilson, managing partner at daa International made a joint collaboration announcement, saying, “The aviation market is set to grow between 2-4% annually over the next 10-years and our solution provides an opportunity to respond to infrastructure needs, as well as looking for more cost-effective and sustainable approaches that will add value. This offering is like no other currently out there and harnesses both of our organizations world class skills for the aviation market in one place.”
daa International’s CEO Nick Cole was delighted to formally sign an MoU (memorandum of understanding) with our valued partners, ASYAD, to jointly explore exciting opportunities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and beyond.
