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VistaJet announced on Wednesday that it is now the first foreign operator to offer flights within Saudi Arabia after it was awarded a foreign operator certificate by the General Authority of Civil Aviation.
The award comes four months after GACA decided to allow foreign operators of private aircraft to offer domestic flights in Saudi Arabia, according to a statement from GACA.
The move is also part of Saudi Arabia's plan under its National Transport and Logistics Strategy to position its aviation sector as the leading player in the Middle East by 2030, transforming it into a logistics hub connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe.
VistaJet Chief Operating Officer Nick van der Meer said the approval marks a significant milestone for the company.
"By expanding our domestic capabilities, we are not only strengthening our regional presence but also amplifying the efficiency of our global fleet," he said. "We are proud to support Vision 2030 and grateful to the leadership and the GACA team for making this possible. This enables us to serve our clients with seamless access across the Kingdom and beyond, ensuring that every journey reflects Vista's commitment to reliability, consistency and world-class service."
The company will offer immediate private aviation services while also continuing its global operations. VistaJet clients will be able to reach any point around the globe nonstop directly from Saudi Arabia.
VistaJet has been in the market for over 20 years, flying corporations and private clients to more than 200 countries and territories on its fleet of more than 270 silver and red business jets, from Challenger 350 to Global 7500.
Saudi Arabia has been a key growth market for VistaJet, according to the company. During the first half of 2025, the company saw a 32% increase in VistaJet Program Members in Saudi Arabia year-over-year.
"As a Saudi myself, I am extremely proud and excited for this new venture, and of all the opportunities that I know we can achieve together," said Mazen Obaid, president for the Middle East of VistaJet. "We thank the Kingdom and its leadership for its dynamic Vision 2030, and we very much look forward to hiring many local experts and investing locally."RELATED STORIES:Saudi Arabia to open private aviation market to foreign operatorsThe top 6 US private jet operators flew nearly 100K hours in a monthJoby explores possible $1B deal in Saudi Arabia for 200 aircraft