Company completes direct-serve transition, launches West-to-Kingdom nonstop express flight
Federal Express Corporation (FedEx), the world’s largest express transportation company, recently announced the completion of its transition to a direct-serve presence in Saudi Arabia.
This milestone comes amid robust economic growth in the Kingdom and includes the launch of the first dedicated FedEx flight into Saudi Arabia, development of a regional hub at the King Salman International Airport, and the expansion of FedEx Logistics freight forwarding services into the country.
These initiatives boost operational capacity, generate employment opportunities, and align with Vision 2030 priorities for economic diversification and global trade integration.
Ministers and officials
The milestone was marked by HE Eng. Saleh Bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the Transport General Authority; HE Dr. Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih, Vice Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Acting President of the Transport General Authority; and FedEx executives Raj Subramaniam, President and Chief Executive Officer, FedEx Corporation; Richard Smith, Chief Operating Officer, International and Chief Executive Officer, Airline, FedEx; Kami Viswanathan, President of FedEx Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa; along with other members of the FedEx leadership team, during a ceremony held in Diriyah – a historic center of Saudi heritage and culture in Riyadh.
“The increasing number of leading global logistics and courier companies establishing direct operations in the Kingdom demonstrates the strength of Saudi Arabia’s logistics sector and its pro-investment environment, as well as the global confidence in the Kingdom’s transformation journey,” affirmed HE Al-Jasser.
“By expanding in the Kingdom, we are broadening our network’s reach and creating faster, more dependable trade routes. As global commerce evolves, Saudi Arabia’s strategic position ensures we can move goods with both speed and scale to connect more people and possibilities,” stated Smith.
Digital innovation
“By combining modern infrastructure, digital innovation, and integrated solutions, we are facilitating seamless trade and helping businesses in Saudi Arabia and across the region compete globally. This reflects our commitment to supporting Saudi Vision 2030 and cementing the Kingdom’s position as a logistics powerhouse,” noted Viswanathan.
FedEx direct-serve operations in the Kingdom provide customers with an end-to-end shipping experience. The company now directly manages pickup, delivery, and customs clearance, supported by its local infrastructure that includes four gateways and four stations.
As part of the company’s expansion, FedEx has introduced its first dedicated flight into Saudi Arabia, becoming the only express logistics company to establish a nonstop air connection from the United States and Europe to the Kingdom. The new service strengthens connectivity and enhances transit times from these markets, supporting better trade flows.
Global Logistics Centre
As the Kingdom advances its position as a global logistics centre, FedEx will also establish a regional hub in Riyadh, connecting international markets to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar.
To support the Kingdom’s growing economy and trade, FedEx has launched its FedEx Logistics division, offering a comprehensive suite of freight forwarding services across air, road, and ocean freight, in addition to transit cargo support and customs brokerage.
These developments are part of a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond operational growth. By aligning closely with Saudi Vision 2030, the company is supporting Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a global hub for trade and logistics.
