King Khalid International Airport (IATA: RUH – ICAO: OERK) is the primary airport serving Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. Located approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of the city center, RUH is one of the largest airports in the Kingdom by area and a key hub for international and domestic flights.

The airport is a significant base for Saudia and Riyadh Air and plays a vital role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by supporting tourism, business, and religious travel.

The airport covers an area of 225 square kilometers and features five passenger terminals, each designed to handle large numbers of travelers efficiently. It also offers parking for over 11,000 vehicles and includes services like a mosque for passengers’ needs. You can visit the official King Khalid International Airport website to learn more about the facilities and flight options.

General Information

Location: Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia
Country: Saudi Arabia
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: RUH
ICAO Code: OERK
Elevation: 2,049 feet (625 metres)
Coordinates: 24°57′18″N 046°42′53″E
Timezone: UTC+3 (Arabian Standard Time)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 35 km (22 miles) north of Riyadh
Website: www.kkia.sa
Operator: Riyadh Airports Company
Services: International and domestic flights, cargo, general aviation, Hajj operations

Parking Information

King Khalid International Airport offers a variety of parking options across multiple terminals.

Short-Term Parking

Rate: Approx. SAR 5/hour (~ USD 1.30/hour)
Distance: Adjacent to terminal buildings
Ideal For: Pick-ups, drop-offs, short-term visits

Long-Term Parking

Rate: Approx. SAR 40/day (~ USD 10.60/day)
Distance: Nearby surface and garage lots with shuttle service
Ideal For: Multi-day and extended stays

Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, mobile payments
Security: 24/7 monitoring with access control

Contact Information

Airport Information Line: +966 9200 20090
Email: info@kkia.sa
FBO Coordination: Saudia Private Aviation and Jet Aviation RUH provide private and business aircraft services

Passenger Information

Immigration Requirements: Passport and visa required. eVisa available for eligible nationalities; special entry protocols apply for Hajj and Umrah
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, appropriate visa
Transport Options: Airport taxis, ride-hailing apps (Uber/Careem), hotel shuttles, car rentals, Riyadh Metro (under development)
Nearby Accommodation:
Close to Airport: Riyadh Airport Marriott Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel Riyadh Qurtuba
In Riyadh: Fairmont Riyadh, The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya
Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR); major credit cards widely accepted

Local Attractions

Al Masmak Fortress

A historic fort in downtown Riyadh symbolizes Saudi unification.

Kingdom Centre Tower

One of Riyadh’s most iconic skyscrapers has a panoramic skybridge.

National Museum of Saudi Arabia

Showcases the Kingdom’s culture, heritage, and Islamic history.

Diriyah Historic District

UNESCO-listed site and birthplace of the Saudi state, now a major cultural restoration project.

Riyadh Season & Boulevard City

Large entertainment and shopping events during peak tourism periods.

King Abdullah Park

Urban park with lake, fountains, and family-friendly activities.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Park:
Evening and early morning hours offer better availability
Arrive early during Hajj season, Ramadan, or national holidays

Additional Notes:
Terminal 1–5 supports international and domestic operations
Bilingual signage (Arabic and English) throughout the airport
Free Wi-Fi available; lounges, prayer rooms, and shopping zones in terminals
The airport is part of Riyadh’s larger aviation expansion strategy under Vision 2030

Location and Accessibility

KKIA is about 35 kilometers north of Riyadh city center in Saudi Arabia. The airport covers a large area of 225 square kilometers, offering plenty of space for future growth. Its geographical coordinates place it at an approximate latitude of 24.9595° N and a longitude of 46.6982° E.

Travelers can reach the airport by car, taxi, or private transport. Over 11,000 vehicles can park at the airport, making it convenient for passengers and visitors. For those unfamiliar with the city, KKIA is easy to find on any map of Riyadh.

Public and private road networks connect directly to the airport entrance. Smooth access roads and clear signs help guide traffic flow around the airport grounds, helping travelers quickly get to and from the terminals.

Key Features and Facilities

King Khalid International Airport includes five passenger terminals, each equipped with eight aerobridges for boarding. These terminals serve international and domestic flights, improving efficiency during busy travel times.

A notable feature of the airport is its large central mosque, which is available to travelers and staff. Additional facilities include a special Royal Terminal for VIPs and official guests.

KKIA provides two parallel runways that can handle some of the largest aircraft in the world. The airport also has a central control tower for air traffic management.

Passengers will find check-in counters, spacious waiting areas, shops, and restaurants inside the terminal buildings. Modern amenities and well-marked information desks help keep the airport organized and accessible for all travelers. The official site has more details on the airport’s setup.

Terminals and Passenger Experience

King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) has a well-planned layout, helpful check-in processes, and a range of services to ensure a smooth journey. Passengers can access comfortable waiting areas, shops, dining, and special facilities in the terminals.

Terminal Layout

KKIA has five passenger terminals, but only three are open for regular travelers. Terminals are connected with covered walkways, making it easy for passengers to move between them. Terminal 5 is the newest and was built to handle more domestic flights. The airport also has an exclusive Royal Terminal for government officials and visiting dignitaries.

Travelers will notice modern design and spacious halls throughout the terminals. Each terminal provides separate areas for arrivals and departures, helping manage passenger flow. A mosque is conveniently located in the central plaza, allowing travelers a quiet place for prayer.

A central plaza connects the main terminals and features amenities like parking, shuttle access, and transportation options. Signs are clear and easy to follow, allowing people to find their gates without confusion. For more details about the terminal setup, visit the King Khalid International Airport overview.

Check-In and Passport Control

Check-in counters are located on the ground floor in each passenger terminal. Passengers can use self-service kiosks for faster check-in or go to regular counters if they need help from airline staff. Lines are managed well during busy times, and staff are present to assist travelers needing help.

Passport control and security screening are organized to handle large groups with minimal delays. The passport area is staffed by trained officers who process local and international travelers. Families and those with disabilities can access dedicated counters and assistance services.

International passengers must present a valid passport, visa, and other required documents during the check-in and passport process. Lines for passports and immigration are typically split by citizenship and ticket class to help speed passage for frequent or business travelers. The process supports fast, safe, and efficient movement of all passengers.

Amenities and Services

KKIA offers a wide range of amenities designed for comfort and convenience. Travelers can find restaurants, fast food, coffee shops, and local dining options throughout the terminals. Duty-free shops are available for international passengers while waiting for their flights. Lounges for business and first-class passengers offer extra comfort and privacy.

Free Wi-Fi is provided in all passenger terminals. The airport features modern restrooms, baby care areas, and dedicated sections for families. Wheelchair services and accessible facilities are available for travelers with limited mobility. Information desks are located in the main halls to help answer questions anytime.

Other services include baggage assistance and special “meet and greet” help for those arriving or departing. Security staff and lost and found counters are available throughout the terminals. For an overview of specific amenities, visit the official KKIA Airport website.

Airport Infrastructure and Operations

King Khalid International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the Middle East. Its extensive facilities are key for smooth flight operations and passenger management.

Runways and Air Traffic Control

King Khalid International Airport (KKIA), known by its code RUH, features two parallel runways, each about 4,205 meters long. These runways allow for the simultaneous takeoff and landing of different aircraft. This setup helps to reduce delays during peak times and increases overall efficiency.

The air traffic control tower at KKIA is recognized as one of the tallest in the world. Equipped with advanced radar and communication systems, it oversees all airside movements. This ensures safe and organized air traffic while minimizing wait times and enhancing pilot communication.

Learn more about the airport’s runways and control tower.

Regional and International Connections

King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh is a vital link for domestic and global air travel. It serves millions of passengers traveling to major cities in Saudi Arabia and connects to worldwide destinations.

Major Destinations and Airlines

The airport connects Riyadh with major Saudi cities like Jeddah, Dammam’s King Fahd International, Tabuk, and Rafha Domestic Airport. These routes are essential for business and family travel and are served by airlines such as Saudia, flynas, and Flyadeal.

King Khalid International Airport offers international flights to Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Popular international airlines like Emirates, British Airways, and Lufthansa operate regular flights. The airport’s partnership with Delta Air Lines and Riyadh Air expands options for travelers heading to North America and beyond, increasing connectivity and travel convenience. For a detailed overview of airlines and terminals, visit the airport’s official terminal information page.

Frequently Asked Questions

King Khalid International Airport offers many traveler services, including online flight information, modern terminal facilities, and ground transportation options. It is located in the capital city of Riyadh and is accessible by car, taxi, and public transportation.

How do I check flight departures from King Khalid International Airport?

Travelers can check live departure information on the official King Khalid International Airport website. The site provides real-time updates about flight schedules, gates, and any changes. Monitors displaying departure details are also available throughout the terminals.

What facilities are available at King Khalid International Airport terminals?

The airport terminals offer restaurants, cafés, prayer rooms, free Wi-Fi, baggage services, and duty-free shops. VIP services and meet-and-greet support are also provided for those seeking a more comfortable travel experience. The airport’s website offers more details on services.

Can I find information on arrivals at King Khalid International Airport online?

Arrivals can be tracked through the KKIA official site, which lists up-to-date arrival times and gate information. This helps anyone picking up travelers or monitoring flights to stay informed about schedule changes.

Where is King Khalid International Airport located?

King Khalid International Airport is about 35 kilometers north of central Riyadh. Its location makes it easy for city residents and visitors to access the airport by various means of transportation.

What are the transportation options to and from King Khalid International Airport?

Visitors can reach and leave the airport using taxis, private cars, and ride-hailing apps. Some public transit options and airport services are also available. Rental car services and shuttle buses provide more flexibility for travelers.

Are there any hotels within or near King Khalid International Airport for layovers?

Hotels are not directly inside the terminal buildings, but several nearby hotels are within a short drive. These offer shuttle services and easy access for those with extended layovers or early flights. Choices range from business hotels to more budget-friendly options.