King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) Overview

King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) is the main airport serving Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and is one of the busiest aviation hubs in the Middle East. Opened in 1981, the airport acts as a vital gateway for millions of travelers, especially those visiting for business, tourism, and religious purposes. It is particularly renowned for its dedicated Hajj Terminal, which handles the annual influx of pilgrims traveling to Mecca.
The airport features a modern design and offers a variety of passenger amenities, including lounges, shopping outlets, and dining options. JED serves as a major hub for Saudia and a key transit point for flights connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. The airport is continuously expanding, with recent upgrades that have greatly improved passenger experience and operational efficiency. Its strategic location on the Red Sea makes it an important cargo and logistics center as well.

King Abdulaziz International Airport is approximately 19 kilometers north of central Jeddah, making it conveniently accessible for both local and international travelers. The airport is surrounded by growing urban centers and is close to important areas such as Mecca, Medina, and the Red Sea coast. With its robust infrastructure and commitment to service, JED continues to play a pivotal role in the region’s air travel network.

Air Traffic Rankings

• Europe: Not applicable, as JED is located in Saudi Arabia.
• Worldwide: King Abdulaziz International Airport ranks among the top 50 busiest airports globally by passenger volume, especially noted during the Hajj season.

Top Airlines Operating at JED

• Saudia
• flydubai
• Etihad Airways
• Emirates
• Qatar Airways
• flynas
• Middle East Airlines

Local Time Zone

Arabian Standard Time (AST), UTC +3

Distance from JED to City Center

The airport is approximately 19 kilometers (12 miles) from downtown Jeddah.

Nearby Areas & Closest City Centers

• Jeddah City Center (19 km)
• Mecca (about 97 km southeast)
• Medina (about 400 km north)
• Red Sea coastal areas

Transportation from King Abdulaziz International Airport to Jeddah City Center

• Taxis: Widely available and can be hired at the arrivals area.
• Airport Shuttle Services: Operate between the airport and various city locations.
• Car Rentals: Multiple international and local car rental companies have desks at the airport.
• Public Buses: Connect the airport to Jeddah and nearby cities.
• Ride-hailing Apps: Services like Uber and Careem operate in the area.

Terminal Information

• Terminal 1: Handles most international flights. Main airlines: Saudia, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways
• North Terminal: Used by several international airlines, including Middle East Airlines, flydubai
• Hajj Terminal: Specially designed for Hajj pilgrims, operational during pilgrimage season. Airlines: Saudia and charter carriers.
• South Terminal: Primarily serves domestic flights. Main airlines: Saudia, flynas

Official Airport Website

https://www.jed-airport.com/

Air Passenger Rights at King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED)

If your flight from King Abdulaziz International Airport is delayed, cancelled, or overbooked, you may be entitled to compensation under certain circumstances. For flights operated by EU-based airlines or flights departing from an EU country to JED, the EU Regulation 261/2004 (EC 261) applies. This regulation protects your rights as a passenger, ensuring compensation and assistance for significant delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Under EC 261, if your flight is delayed by more than three hours, cancelled without sufficient notice, or you are denied boarding, you may claim compensation. The regulation applies if your flight departs from any EU airport or if you are flying to the EU with an EU airline. Compensation amounts depend on the flight distance:

• Up to €250 per person for flights up to 1,500 km
• Up to €400 per person for flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km
• Up to €600 per person for flights over 3,500 km

For flights to or from JED, EC 261 will apply if your journey starts in the EU, or if you are flying to the EU on a European airline such as Lufthansa, Air France, or KLM. If your flight is delayed for more than two hours, you are also entitled to care, such as meals and refreshments. For delays over five hours, you can request a refund if you choose not to travel.

To claim compensation, passengers should keep their boarding passes, booking confirmations, and records of all communications with the airline. Compensation claims can be made directly with the airline, but services like Voos can help maximize your chances of success, especially if the airline is unresponsive or disputes your claim.

How Voos Can Assist with Your Compensation Claim

If your flight from King Abdulaziz International Airport was delayed or cancelled, Voos can review your claim and, if eligible, pursue it with the airline on your behalf. Our service is risk-free – fees are only charged if your claim is successful. Depending on your specific case, compensation of up to €600 per person may be possible.

• Gather your flight number and booking details
• Keep your boarding pass or e-ticket
• Document communications with the airline
• Check your eligibility for compensation today

Voos specializes in air passenger rights and compensation claims for delayed, cancelled, or overbooked flights at King Abdulaziz International Airport and worldwide. If you have experienced a disruption, let us handle the process so you can focus on your travel plans.