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Madinah Airport Expansion to Reach 18M Passenger Capacity by October 2027

November 10, 2026

Madinah airport expansion will increase annual passenger capacity to 18 million, with completion expected in October 2027, GACA President confirms.

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The expansion of Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah is expected to be completed in October 2027, increasing its annual passenger capacity from 8 million to 18 million.

General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej announced the expected completion date during the 6th Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah on November 9, 2026.

The airport is the main international gateway for visitors travelling to Madinah, including Umrah pilgrims and those visiting Masjid an-Nabawi.

What the Expansion Includes

The expansion project aims to increase the airport’s annual capacity by 10 million passengers, bringing its total capacity to 18 million.

According to TAV Airports, the development involves constructing a new domestic terminal and upgrading the existing terminal to accommodate growing passenger traffic. Supporting infrastructure, including connecting roads, utility lines, parking facilities and an administration building, is also part of the development plan.

The project is being carried out in phases, with a total planned investment of USD 275 million, according to TAV Airports.

Saudi Press Agency reported in March 2026 that the airport’s expansion involved an investment exceeding SAR 1.3 billion.

GACA Confirms October 2027 Completion

Speaking at the 6th Hajj Conference and Exhibition, Al-Duailej confirmed that the Madinah airport expansion would raise its capacity from 8 million to 18 million passengers, with completion expected in October 2027.

He also discussed the wider role of Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector in supporting the Pilgrim Experience Program.

According to the GACA President, six major airports are involved in efforts to facilitate pilgrim journeys and improve services during the Hajj season.

The conference session, titled “Serving the Pilgrims: An Integrated National Ecosystem”, brought together senior officials to discuss improvements across the services provided to Hajj pilgrims.

Growing Passenger Traffic

Madinah airport has experienced increasing passenger traffic in recent years.

Saudi Press Agency reported that the airport handled approximately 11.7 million passengers in 2025, reflecting its growing importance as a gateway for international visitors and pilgrims.

The expansion is expected to provide additional capacity to accommodate future passenger growth and support the increasing demand for travel to Madinah.

Once completed, the upgraded airport will have an annual capacity of 18 million passengers.