The joint initiative will provide support and guidance on both existing and new initiatives led by Saudia, including cargo, airport and revenue orientated solutions. The initiative will also help Saudia attract young Saudi professionals to develop niche software solutions.

King Abdullah Economic City has been identified as the ideal locale for the Competency Center due to its cutting-edge facilities, strategic position between East and West, and peerless ability to interact with the region’s largest economy. It is predicted the city will be the size of Washington DC when finished in 2025. The US$100bn project will be particularly influential in boosting the Kingdom’s tourism, logistics, energy, transportation and manufacturing sectors. Saudia has already committed to moving 1000 employees to its Smart Technology Hub in King Abdullah Economic City.

“Saudi Arabia needs to continue strengthening its ability to create sustainable high-tech jobs, and Saudia is determined to do everything it can to support this process,” said His Excellency Eng. Khalid Abdullah Almolhem, Saudia Director General.

The existing strategic business relationship with Amadeus will facilitate great opportunities to jointly develop aviation specific software that would be targeted to improving customer services and passengers connivance on platforms such as social media and mobile devices.

“We congratulate Saudia for establishing itself in these new premises which are at the forefront of the region’s modern business environment,” commented Francois Weissert, Senior Vice President & Chief Technology Advisor, Middle East and Asia, Amadeus. “We will also consider options to increase our presence and activities in KAEC as we strongly believe it is important to introduce new technology solutions and create local employment opportunities to foster local economic development.”