VistaJet, the premier global private aviation provider within the Vista group, has achieved a landmark designation as the first international operator authorized to conduct flights within Saudi Arabia. This agreement illustrates VistaJet’s dedication to aligning its services and expertise with the Kingdom’s strategic goals, which are in conjunction with the aims of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).
Utilizing its entirely owned fleet of aircraft, VistaJet is strategically positioned to offer immediate private aviation services across the Kingdom while ensuring operational efficiency globally. With the largest fleet of Global 7500 jets, and the upcoming addition of Global 8000 aircraft, VistaJet clients can enjoy non-stop access to any worldwide destination from Saudi Arabia, taking advantage of its favorable geographical location.
Nick van der Meer, the chief operating officer at VistaJet, expressed, “The endorsement and acknowledgment from GACA represents a key milestone for our operations in the Kingdom. By enhancing our domestic capabilities, we are not only fortifying our regional presence but also improving the efficiency of our global fleet. We are proud to support Vision 2030 and thankful to the leadership and GACA for facilitating this opportunity. This allows us to provide our clients with seamless access throughout Saudi Arabia and beyond, ensuring that every trip upholds Vista’s standards of reliability, consistency, and exceptional service.”
Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector is undergoing unprecedented changes as a fundamental component of Vision 2030. The Kingdom aims to establish itself as a global center for travel, commerce, and investment by modernizing its aviation infrastructure, regulations, and innovative practices, thereby enhancing connections between Asia, Africa, and Europe. VistaJet’s operations align closely with this vision, offering advanced, sustainable, and interconnected aviation solutions worldwide, ensuring unparalleled flexibility and value.
Read: Riyadh Air gains approval from Saudi aviation regulator
With over 15 years of experience in the market—longer than any other international operator—VistaJet continues to create substantial value in Saudi Arabia. The nation has become a vital market for growth, as demonstrated by a 32 percent year-over-year increase in VistaJet Program Members in the first half of 2025, indicating a rising demand for both domestic and international travel options.
Mazen Obaid, president for the Middle East at VistaJet, stated: “We are thrilled to collaborate with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and GACA, reinforcing our commitment to delivering reliable, flexible, and trusted aviation solutions through our global and regional networks. As a Saudi, I am incredibly proud and excited about this new endeavor and the potential achievements we can reach together. We appreciate the Kingdom and its leadership for their ambitious Vision 2030 and are eager to hire local talent and make investments in the region.”
For more than twenty years, VistaJet has revolutionized private aviation, transporting clients to over 200 countries and territories with a fleet exceeding 270 business jets, ranging from super-midsize to long-range aircraft, including the renowned Global 7500.
This announcement comes on the heels of VistaJet successfully completing an Equity and Term Loan B deal totaling $1.3 billion in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting robust market confidence in its strategic direction and long-term vision. The expansion of operations, improvement of services, and growth in emerging markets highlight VistaJet’s partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and GACA as a pivotal development, solidifying its position in this important market.