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Yanbu Airport

About the Airport

Yanbu Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Prince Abdul Mohsin Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Yanbu is a modern and strategically important air gateway on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia. It serves not only as a key transport hub for the industrial center of Yanbu but also as a starting point for tourists seeking to explore stunning resorts and diving spots. The airport, modernized in 2009, became the first regional airport in the country equipped with aerobridges for passenger convenience. It serves both domestic and international flights, connecting the region with key cities in the Middle East and the world.

IATA Code YNB
ICAO Code OEYN
City Yanbu
Distance to Center About 21 km
Status International
Passengers per Year Over 696,000 (based on 2019 data)
Popular Airlines Saudia, Flynas, Turkish Airlines
Schedule "Yanbu Airport" online flight board

Despite its relatively small size, Yanbu Airport offers passengers everything needed for a comfortable journey. The terminal is capable of handling up to 500 passengers per hour and is equipped with two aerobridges, ensuring quick and convenient boarding directly into the aircraft. Travelers have access to several cafes and shopping areas, including duty-free shops where souvenirs and travel essentials can be purchased. For passenger convenience, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, along with car rental offices and lounges for relaxation.

Contact Information

  • Official Website: Currently, Yanbu Airport does not have a separate official website. Up-to-date information can be found on the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) portal or on the websites of airlines operating flights to Yanbu.
  • Information Desk Phone: +966 14 396 7111 (for calls from outside Saudi Arabia) or 014 396 7111 (for calls within the country).
  • Airport Address: Yanbu Al Bahr 46429, Saudi Arabia.
  • Email: A specific email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to contact them by phone.
  • Social Media: The airport does not have its own official social media pages. News and updates are usually published on GACA accounts.
  • Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative office at Yanbu Airport directly. Airport staff do not handle luggage tracing.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions about airport services, use the main information desk phone number. For questions related to tickets, flight schedules, and check-in, please contact your airline.

How to Get to the Airport

Getting to Yanbu Airport (YNB), also known as Prince Abdul Mohsin Bin Abdulaziz Airport, from the city is quite simple as it is located very close to the main districts. The trip from the center of Yanbu to the terminal usually takes 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi and Transfers are the most common and convenient way to reach the airport. You can use official taxis or book a car through mobile apps popular in Saudi Arabia, such as Uber or Careem. The cost of a trip from the city center is generally 50–80 Saudi Riyals. For greater comfort, especially if you are traveling with family or a large amount of luggage, you can pre-book a private transfer through your hotel or a specialized service.

If you prefer independence in your movements, car rental is an excellent option. Many international and local rental companies have offices in the city. The road to the airport is well-marked with signs. The airport grounds feature convenient parking where you can leave your car for both short and long periods. This is an ideal solution for those going on a short trip and planning to drive immediately upon return.

It is important to note that there is no direct public transport connection (such as city buses or trains) to the airport in Yanbu. Therefore, travelers should plan their trip relying on taxis, transfers, or rental cars. We recommend leaving in advance to complete flight check-in and pre-flight security screening without rushing.

Terminals and Map

The Yanbu Airport, also known as Prince Abdul Mohsin Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, is a modern and compact aviation hub. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making it particularly convenient for travelers. The airport consists of one main terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, passengers do not need to worry about complex transfers between different buildings.

The terminal layout is logical and well-thought-out. The space is clearly divided into several zones. The Departure Zone is generally located on the upper level and includes check-in counters, passport control, and security screening points. After clearing formalities, passengers enter the airside area with waiting lounges, shops, and cafes. The Arrival Zone is located on the lower level, featuring baggage claim belts, customs control, and car rental counters. Navigation through the terminal is facilitated by clear signs in Arabic and English.

Since the airport has only one terminal, all processes are quite fast. Check-in and security screening usually take little time, especially compared to major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: approximately 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to complete all procedures without haste, even during peak periods.

The main tip for navigation is to follow the signs. Due to the compact size of the terminal, it is practically impossible to get lost here. All key points—from check-in counters to boarding gates—are within walking distance of each other. This makes Yanbu Airport an excellent example of an efficient and passenger-friendly aviation hub in Saudi Arabia.

Airport History

The history of Yanbu Airport (YNB), officially named Prince Abdul Mohsin Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, began in 1979. Its creation was inextricably linked to the rapid growth of the city as one of the key industrial centers of Saudi Arabia. Throughout the first decades of its existence, the airport functioned as a domestic hub, providing air transport for the needs of industrial companies and local residents.

A turning point in the development of the air harbor was 2009. As part of the government program to diversify the economy and develop tourism, the airport underwent a massive reconstruction, resulting in it receiving international status. A completely new passenger terminal was built, designed to handle up to 1.5 million passengers per year, and the runway was extended and modernized to accommodate wide-body aircraft.

An interesting fact: Yanbu Airport became one of the first in the Kingdom to be fully built and equipped by the private sector under the supervision of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). This was an important step in modernizing the country's aviation infrastructure.

Today, Yanbu Airport plays a dual role. On one hand, it remains an important transport hub for business travel related to major petrochemical and industrial enterprises. On the other, it has transformed into a gateway for tourists wishing to explore the pristine coral reefs of the Red Sea, considered some of the best in the world for diving. Additionally, the airport handles part of the pilgrim flow during Hajj and Umrah, relieving the load on the country's main air hubs in Jeddah and Medina.

Services and Facilities

Yanbu Airport (YNB), also known as Prince Abdul Mohsin Bin Abdulaziz Airport, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-equipped and designed for the convenience of travelers arriving in Yanbu or departing from it.

Within the airport, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat or drink coffee before your flight. There are also shops offering souvenirs, press, and travel goods. Although the selection may not be as vast as in major international hubs, the basic needs of travelers are fully met.

For those who value enhanced comfort, the airport provides waiting lounges, including VIP lounges. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks, as well as fresh newspapers. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for mobile devices are installed in waiting areas, allowing you to stay connected at all times.

Financial matters can be settled on-site: ATMs and currency exchange bureaus operate in the airport. For emergencies, there is a medical center ready to provide first aid. Travelers with children can use the mother and child room, and a barrier-free environment has been created for passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps, special restrooms, and assistance services.

Although there are no hotels directly inside the terminal building, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, offering a convenient option for an overnight stay. Specialized conference halls or business centers are not provided in the airport, but basic conditions for work can be found in the VIP lounges.

Where to Eat

Yanbu Airport (YNB) is a compact regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is primarily focused on convenience and speed of service for passengers. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants; however, there is everything necessary to have a comfortable snack before departure or enjoy a coffee.

The main food outlets are located in both the public area (landside) and the departure lounge after passing passport control and security (airside). Typically, a small cafe operates in the main hall, serving drinks and light snacks. In the sterile area, the selection is slightly wider: this is where the main cafeterias serving passengers waiting for their flight are located.

For a quick bite, sandwiches, fresh pastries, packaged snacks, and, of course, various types of coffee and tea are ideal. If you are looking for something more substantial, look for hot sandwiches or salads that may be on the menu. To experience local flavor, do not miss the opportunity to try traditional Arabic coffee (Gahwa) with dates—a classic treat often offered in cafes across Saudi Arabia.

It is important to note that all food at the airport is Halal. Vegetarians can generally find suitable options, such as vegetable sandwiches, salads, or hummus. However, choices for vegans and travelers with gluten intolerance may be extremely limited, so for strict dietary requirements, it is recommended to carry your own snacks. Prices in airport establishments are higher than the city average, which is standard practice for air terminals. The operating hours of cafes and kiosks are usually synchronized with the flight schedule, ensuring service for passengers on both morning and evening flights.

Travel Tips

Traveling through Yanbu Airport becomes easier and more pleasant if you prepare in advance. To avoid rushing, arrive at the airport well ahead of time: preferably 2-3 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before a domestic one. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities, especially during peak load periods associated with holiday seasons or pilgrimages.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. This allows you to proceed directly to baggage drop or security screening if you are traveling with hand luggage only. The security control procedure here is standard but can be quite thorough. Keep your passport and boarding pass handy to speed up the process.

Pay special attention to the contents of your luggage and carry-on bags. Besides standard restrictions on carrying liquids (in containers up to 100 ml), strict rules apply in Saudi Arabia. It is strictly forbidden to import alcoholic beverages in any form, pork and pork products, narcotics, as well as any materials (books, magazines, videos) that may be considered offensive to Islamic culture. Violation of these rules entails serious consequences.

Customs control upon entry into the country is also strict. Be prepared for your luggage to be inspected. Large sums of cash and valuables must be declared. Remain calm and polite when interacting with customs and security staff.

If you are flying in transit through Yanbu, check the visa requirements for citizens of your country in advance. Depending on the length of the layover, you may need a transit visa. Also, confirm with your airline that your luggage is checked through to the final destination so you do not have to collect and re-check it.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by personal preferences. Window seats will allow you to enjoy views of the Red Sea coast during takeoff or landing. Aisle seats provide greater convenience if you plan to get up frequently during the flight.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately. They will provide up-to-date information and explain your rights as a passenger, including the possibility of receiving food, drinks, or even hotel accommodation depending on the wait duration. Having travel insurance that covers such cases will also be a major plus.

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