FBOs
Universal Aviation Expands to Middle East
The company will establish a trio of FBOs in Saudi Arabia starting in early 2026
Universal Aviation Saudi Arabia staffer outside Riyahd facilty
Preparing for the start of Universal Aviation’s FBO operations at Riyadh King Khalid International Airport are (l-r): Mohamed Albehery, service excellence executive; Altynai Sharsheeva, service excellence executive; Universal Aviation Saudi Arabia general manager Hayel Altashkandi, and service excellence executive Ibrahim Alshimali. The move marks the expansion of Universal’s global footprint to the Middle East.

Universal Aviation has signed a major agreement with Saudi Arabian officials, expanding its footprint into the Middle East for the first time with the establishment of three new facilties. The company’s Saudi division, led by general manager Hayel Altashkandi, has begun preparations to open a lounge in the shared general aviation terminal at Riyadh King Khalid International Airport (OERK) in early 2026. 

Universal also received concessions by state-owned airport operator Matarat Holding to manage facilities and provide full ground handling services at Jeddah King Abdulaziz International (OEJN) and Dammam King Fahd International (OEDF) airports.