Direct Flights between Jeddah and Pristina Open New Investment Opportunities for Saudi Businesses
Kosovo's ambassador to Saudi Arabia highlights the economic potential of the new air link, as well as the strategic advantages it presents for both countries.
The launch of direct flights between Jeddah and Pristina by the Saudi low-cost carrier flynas marks a significant milestone in enhancing bilateral relations between Kosovo and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
This three-times-a-week service, starting on October 1st, represents more than just an aviation development; it signifies Kosovo's growing presence as an attractive destination for Saudi business and investment opportunities.
Kosovo’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Lulzim Mjeku, emphasized that the establishment of a direct air link between the two nations fulfills a long-standing demand from both countries' business communities.
The signing of the Agreement on Air Services last year paved the way for this development, fostering commercial ties and creating new channels for economic collaboration.
While the direct flights open up tourism opportunities for Saudi travelers to explore Kosovo’s natural beauty and historical heritage, Mjeku emphasized that the primary focus is on leveraging Kosovo's dynamic business environment.
The country boasts one of the highest internet penetration rates in Europe at 96.4%, a multilingual workforce, and streamlined business procedures, making it an appealing gateway for Saudi investors looking to enter the Western Balkans.
Kosovo offers several competitive advantages that are expected to attract Saudi businesses.
These include a corporate tax rate of just 10% and the ease of starting a business, with an average of only 4.5 days required.
Additionally, investments represent 36% of Kosovo’s GDP, supported by an average economic growth rate of 4.1% over eight years.
The new aviation connection coincides with the visit of a Saudi business delegation to Kosovo, led by the Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry, marking 15 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
This development aligns with flynas’ expansion strategy and the Kingdom's National Civil Aviation Strategy, aiming to connect the Kingdom to 250 international destinations, accommodate 330 million passengers, and host 150 million tourists annually by 2030.
Ambassador Mjeku views these aviation developments as a gateway for deeper economic collaboration.
He anticipates increased technological partnerships between Kosovar IT companies and Saudi counterparts, with early successes in applications like the Tawakkalna project and cybersecurity solutions already demonstrating this potential.