Riyadh Airports Company announced the successful completion of the first phase of its terminal relocation plan at King Khalid International Airport, the largest operation of its kind since the airport's establishment. This strategic step comes as part of the Kingdom's efforts to enhance the civil aviation sector and improve the passenger experience, in line with the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and the Kingdom's Vision 2030.

Details of the first phase and national carriers

The first phase of the relocation process officially began on February 16, with Terminals 1 and 2 being exclusively dedicated to international flights operated by the national carriers: Saudi Arabian Airlines, Riyadh Airlines, Flynas, and Flyadeal. This allocation aims to consolidate the national carriers' operations in one location, directly contributing to increased operational efficiency, reduced travel time, and smoother passenger flow within the airport.

Timeline for upcoming phases

According to the announced operational plan, the transfer operations will continue to include substantial changes in the distribution of flights in the coming days, as follows:

• February 24: Terminal 4 will be designated for domestic flights of national carriers, with domestic flights distributed between Terminals 3 and 4 to facilitate the movement of connecting (transit) passengers.
• February 25: International flights of foreign carriers will be transferred entirely to Terminal 5.

Unprecedented field support and logistical facilities

To ensure the success of this complex operation and avoid any disruption for travelers, Riyadh Airports provided a comprehensive field support system. This system included deploying more than 650 guides throughout the airport to direct passengers and answer their inquiries. The company also offered a package of logistical facilities, including free parking for the first hour and free transportation between terminals via various means, including taxis, the Riyadh Metro, and shuttle buses departing every four minutes.

Strategic importance and general context

This move is of paramount importance, extending far beyond simply redistributing terminals; it comes at a time when the Kingdom is experiencing rapid growth in travel and tourism. King Khalid International Airport is the main gateway to the capital, Riyadh, and these changes are designed to prepare it to accommodate the anticipated increase in passenger numbers, especially with the imminent launch of commercial operations by Riyadh Airlines. Transforming the airport into an efficient hub that facilitates connections between domestic and international flights is a cornerstone for establishing Riyadh as a global air transport destination.

In closing, the company urged all travelers to check the details of their flights and the new lounges allocated to them by contacting the airlines or via the airport's interactive WhatsApp service (920020090), stressing its full commitment to providing a smooth and comfortable travel experience during the transition period.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially announced that next Sunday, February 22, 2026, will be an official holiday for all state employees, on the occasion of celebrating the glorious "Founding Day" anniversary.

The ministry explained in its statement that this holiday includes all employees in the public government sector, as well as those working in private sector establishments, in addition to employees of the non-profit sector, in implementation of the generous royal orders that set this date as an annual date to celebrate the anniversary of the founding of the first Saudi state.

The historical depth of the founding day

The celebration of Founding Day commemorates the Saudi state's more than three-century-long existence, symbolizing the Kingdom's deep historical and cultural roots. This anniversary dates back to 1727 CE (1139 AH), when Imam Muhammad bin Saud assumed power in Diriyah, thus establishing the first Saudi state, which laid the foundations for security, stability, and unity in the Arabian Peninsula after centuries of fragmentation and disunity.

The difference between Founding Day and National Day

It is important to distinguish between Founding Day and National Day; Founding Day (February 22) celebrates the beginning of the reign of Imam Muhammad bin Saud and the establishment of the first state, while National Day (September 23) celebrates the anniversary of the unification of the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by the founding King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud - may God have mercy on him - in 1932 AD. Both represent pivotal milestones in the history and development of the Arabian Peninsula.

Manifestations of celebration and national importance

This holiday holds immense importance as it strengthens national identity and connects current generations to their rich historical roots. The Kingdom typically witnesses extensive cultural and heritage events on this day, with citizens wearing traditional clothing that reflects the diversity of the Kingdom's regions, and artistic performances and traditional markets that recreate the lives of their ancestors during that era.

The approval of this holiday for all sectors (public, private and non-profit) confirms the inclusiveness of the occasion for all segments of society, and is an opportunity to strengthen national cohesion and draw inspiration from the stories of struggle and success written by imams, kings and citizens throughout history to build this proud nation.