IAAE News
December 2025
More than 200 international aviation leaders convened in Riyadh in December for the third annual IAAE conference held in conjunction with the Global Airports Forum, reflecting the event’s continued expansion and increasing alignment with one of the region’s largest aviation gatherings.
Held alongside the exhibition Global Airports Forum (formerly known the Saudi Airport Exhibition), the conference has broadened in scope and participation each year, bringing together airport executives, regulators, technology providers, airlines, and investors from across the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
The program opened with remarks from leadership representing AAAE, IAAE, MATARAT Holding, and regional aviation authorities, setting the stage for discussions centered on rapid aviation growth and transformation across Saudi Arabia and the broader region.
Over two days, sessions focused heavily on the intersection of technology, workforce development, and infrastructure expansion. Panels examined the growing role of artificial intelligence and automation in airport operations, as well as the challenge of attracting and training the next generation of aviation professionals. Other discussions explored aviation security, cybersecurity, and emerging risks as airports adopt increasingly digital systems.
The agenda also reflected the region’s forward-looking ambitions, with sessions on advanced air mobility and spaceport development, as well as the role of aviation connectivity in driving economic growth. Airline leaders and industry analysts addressed recovery strategies, fleet modernization, and cargo expansion, while additional sessions focused on passenger experience, operational readiness, and the integration of new technologies into terminal operations.
Sustainability and financing were recurring themes, with discussions on decarbonization, sustainable aviation fuel, and investment models supporting large-scale airport development. Panels also examined airspace management and the need for greater coordination as traffic volumes increase and new entrants, including advanced air mobility, enter the system.
The conference was closely integrated with the Global Airports Forum exhibition, with dedicated breaks and networking sessions on the show floor allowing participants to engage directly with exhibitors and explore emerging technologies and services shaping airport development and operations.
Now in its third year, the IAAE conference has established itself as a growing platform for international dialogue, reflecting both the rapid pace of aviation development in the region and the increasing importance of global collaboration in addressing shared industry challenges. For additional information on the 2026 conference, including speaking and sponsorship opportunities as well as attendance, please contact Heba Gouda at heba.gouda@aaae.org.
