King Khalid International Airport (RUH)

Overview

Riyadh King Khalid International Airport is the key entry point for passengers flying to Saudi Arabia. It is located a short drive from Riyadh and is often used as a layover stop for passengers flying between Europe and Africa or Asia.

With over 14 million passengers using the airport each year, passengers should expect some delays and queues. Staff are not that helpful or friendly and even though the airport complies has very high standards, there are often complaints about the service at Riyadh King Khalid International Airport.

Location

The airport is situated 22 miles (35km) from Riyadh city centre.

Getting to the city

There is no public transport available to the city. Free shuttles ferry passengers to nearby hotels and prepaid airport taxis are available for transport to the city.

Time

Local time is GMT +3.

Contacts

Tel: +966 (0)1 221 1000.

Car rental

Car rental counters are located in the lobby and include Hertz and several local companies (women are not allowed to drive on public roads and may not be a passenger with a man who is not immediate family, unless in a taxi).

Airport Taxis

Taxis are available at the airport. Fares into downtown Riyadh will never be less than SAR 70. However, scammers and touts will try to charge tourists up to SAR 200, which is grossly overpriced.

Transfer between terminals

The terminals are linked by moving walkways.

Facilities

Facilities include restaurants and cafeterias (no bars as alcohol is illegal), banks and ATMs, a first aid clinic, various shopping opportunities and visitor information. A mosque is located in the centre of the passenger terminal. Facilities for the disabled are good.

Parking

Two multi-level garages are located directly in front of the passenger terminals, on either side of the mosque, which are connected to the terminals by walkways.

Website

www.gaca.gov.sa

Airlines

Most national carriers offer flights to Riyadh King Khalid International Airport. These include Air Arabia, Air France, Air India, Bahrain Air, bmi, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, EgyptAir, Etihad, Gulf Air, Jet Airways, Lufthansa, Nas Air, Pakistan International Airlines, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Turkish Airlines.

Internet

Some cafes offer wifi for purchase. There is free wifi in Terminal 2.

Business Lounges

Although no business facilities are offered within the terminals, the airport hotels, such as the Sheraton Riyadh and Sahara Airport Hotel, all offer meeting and conference facilities.

Riyadh Airport Taxis: the taxi fares above are intended as a guideline only.