Najran Airport

Najran Airport (EAM), located in a picturesque oasis in the south of Saudi Arabia, serves as a key aerial gateway to one of the country's most distinctive regions. Opened in 2011, this modern air terminal has become an important transport hub connecting the ancient city with the Kingdom's major cultural and business centres. Despite its regional status, the airport plays a significant role in the development of local tourism and the economy, offering travellers a comfortable start to their exploration of a land rich in unique architecture and ancient history.

The airport terminal is designed with passenger convenience in mind and is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable wait before departure. Travellers have access to 12 check-in counters, several boarding gates, a VIP lounge, and various shops. Additionally, the premises include a mosque, ATMs, car rental offices, and a medical unit. Special facilities are provided for families with children and passengers with special needs, making Najran Airport friendly for all categories of travellers.

Below you will find the main contact information for Najran Airport (EAM). Please note that for small regional airports, some data may be provided through central authorities.

• Official Website: Generally, regional airports in Saudi Arabia do not have separate websites. Up-to-date information is published on the portal of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) or Matarat, the company managing the airports.
• Information Service Phone: For information, you can call the unified number for Saudi airports: +966 920011233. You can also try contacting the information desk directly by phone: +966 17 544 0199.
• Airport Address: The airport is located approximately 30 kilometres northeast of the city centre of Najran, at King Saud Rd, Najran 66251, Saudi Arabia.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is usually not published. It is recommended to use the contact forms on the official GACA website or call the listed numbers.
• Social Media: Official news and updates regarding the airport are most often published on the accounts of the management company Matarat (@matarat_sa) or GACA (@ksagaca) on social networks (e.g., X/Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, you should primarily contact your airline's representative at the airport. Staff at the information desk can also advise you on where to go.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and inquiries directly within the terminal, approach the Information Desk or use the general information service phone number.

Najran Airport (EAM) is located approximately 30 kilometres northeast of the city centre of Najran. You can get to or from the city in several ways, but it is worth considering the specifics of the transport system in this region of Saudi Arabia. A car journey from the city centre to the airport usually takes from 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi and Transfer — the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. You can use official taxis, which are easy to find in the city, or book a car via mobile apps popular in the country, such as Uber or Careem. The cost of the trip will be moderate. It is recommended to agree on the price with the driver of a regular taxi in advance or use apps with a fixed fare to avoid misunderstandings. You can also book a private transfer through a hotel or travel agency, which ensures you are met at the appointed time for a fixed price.

Car Rental — an excellent option for travellers who value independence and plan to explore the surroundings of Najran. Representatives of both international and local rental companies operate at the airport and in the city itself. Having a rental car gives you complete freedom of movement. Before the trip, be sure to check the document requirements — as a rule, in addition to your national license, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

As for public transport, it is poorly developed in Najran. There are no direct and regular bus or train routes connecting the city centre with the airport. Therefore, tourists should rely exclusively on taxis, pre-booked transfers, or rental cars to arrive on time for their flight.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented car, parking is provided. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. This is a convenient option if you are seeing someone off or leaving your car for the duration of your trip. The cost of parking depends on the duration of the stay.

Najran Airport (EAM) is a modern and compact aviation hub, making it very convenient for travellers. The airport operates one main passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. This structure eliminates the need for complex transfers or the use of shuttles between terminals — everything is located in one building.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building is divided into two main zones: the Departures zone and the Arrivals zone. The Departures zone houses check-in counters, passport control and security checkpoints, as well as a waiting lounge with boarding gates. The Arrivals zone includes baggage claim belts and customs control. Due to the airport's small size, all key points are within walking distance of each other, and navigation is facilitated by clear signage in Arabic and English.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Najran Airport usually takes little time. On domestic flights, check-in and security screening generally take no more than 30-45 minutes. For international flights, it is worth allowing a little more time, but overall, procedures are fast and organised. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance: 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2-3 hours before an international one, to avoid rushing.

For comfortable navigation through the terminal, simply follow the signs. Upon entering the building, you will immediately see a flight information board, which will help you find the necessary check-in counter. After check-in, proceed to the security zone, and then to your boarding gate. Thanks to the thoughtful layout, it is practically impossible to get lost in Najran Airport, making it an excellent starting point for travelling around Saudi Arabia.

The history of the airport in Najran is not just a chronicle of the development of a transport hub, but a story of strategic transformation. The first airport, known as Najran Domestic Airport, was opened in 1971. For decades, it served as the main aerial artery for the province of the same name, providing links to major cities in Saudi Arabia, such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Its distinctive feature was its location directly within the city limits.

A key moment in the airport's history was 2015. Due to its location in close proximity to the border and to ensure flight safety, operations at the old airport were suspended. This event served as the impetus for creating a completely new, more modern, and safer aviation complex for the entire region.

A new chapter in Najran's aviation history began in September 2019 with the opening of the new Najran Regional Airport (EAM). Located approximately 30 kilometres northeast of the city, it became a symbol of modernisation. The new terminal, designed to serve up to 1.4 million passengers per year, along with a modern runway and advanced infrastructure, significantly improved the quality and safety of air travel.

Thus, the history of Najran Airport is an example of successful adaptation to changing conditions. The relocation and complete reconstruction of the air harbour became not just a forced measure, but a strategic step ensuring stable and safe air connectivity for residents and guests of this dynamically developing region. This achievement underscores the importance of Najran as an economic and cultural centre in the south of the country.

Najran Airport (EAM) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the airport is designed so that your journey begins and ends without unnecessary hassle.

Within the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have coffee or a bite to eat before departure. There are also shops where you can buy souvenirs, press, and travel essentials. For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, lounges offering a quieter atmosphere are available.

Staying connected is easy: the airport provides access to free Wi-Fi, and charging stations for mobile devices are provided in the waiting areas. For financial matters, ATMs and currency exchange points are at your service. In case of necessity, you can visit the medical unit, where first aid will be provided.

The airport is equipped to receive passengers with special needs: there are ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Families with children can use the mother and child room. Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, many accommodation options can be found in the city of Najran itself, which is easily accessible by taxi. For business travellers, basic business services may be available in the VIP lounges.

Dining options at the airport of Najran (EAM) correspond to its status as a regional domestic airport. You will not find a wide variety of fine dining restaurants here, but you will certainly be able to grab a bite before your flight. The main food outlets focus on simplicity, speed of service, and convenience for passengers.

Primarily, the airport features cafes and small snack bars. They are located both in the public area before security control (landside) and in the departure zone (airside). Here you can order coffee, tea, soft drinks, fresh pastries, sandwiches, and light snacks. This is an ideal option for those who want to quickly refresh themselves or take something on board.

For those wishing to try something with local flavour, it is worth paying attention to traditional Arabic coffee, which is often served with dates — this is a classic symbol of hospitality in Saudi Arabia. Although there are no full-service restaurants with national cuisine in the airport, sandwiches or pastries with local ingredients can be found on the menus of some cafes.

Virtually all food offered at the airport is Halal. Passengers with special dietary needs, for example, vegetarians or those adhering to a gluten-free diet, may find it more difficult to find suitable dishes. The choice may be limited to fruits, nuts, or certain types of salads, so it is recommended to check the ingredients with staff or carry necessary products with you.

The price range in Najran Airport establishments can be characterised as moderate, standard for air terminals. Cafe opening hours are usually aligned with the flight schedule, ensuring service for passengers of both morning and evening departures. For a full lunch or dinner, it is better to eat in the city before arriving at the airport, and limit yourself here to a light snack and drinks.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Najran goes smoothly, it is worth considering several features characteristic of Saudi Arabia. By following these tips, you can avoid unnecessary stress and save time.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website. This will allow you to head straight to the bag drop counter or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Security screening can be quite thorough. Pack all liquids in containers up to 100 ml in a transparent bag. Pay special attention to strict prohibitions: it is forbidden to bring alcohol, pork and pork products, as well as materials that may be considered contrary to Islamic norms into the country. These rules apply to both hand luggage and checked baggage.

Seat Selection and Transfers. Standard advice is relevant here: a window seat will offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to move freely. If you have a connecting flight in Najran, check with the airline in advance whether your luggage will be transferred automatically or if you need to collect it and check it in again. Usually, transfers on domestic flights are quick.

Customs Control upon Arrival. Be prepared that your luggage may be inspected or scanned after collection. Honestly declare all valuables and currency if required. Remember the total ban on importing alcohol — its discovery will lead to serious consequences.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, weigh your luggage at home to avoid excess weight fees, and take an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after security. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline representative. They are obliged to provide information about your rights, which may include vouchers for food or hotel accommodation during long waits.