Saudi Arabia’s SAL Logistics Services has signed a strategic partnership with China’s SF Airlines to strengthen air freight operations, marking another milestone in the Kingdom’s efforts to expand its logistics sector and deepen trade ties with one of its largest economic partners.
The SAL air cargo deal will see the Saudi company provide integrated ground handling and operational services for SF Airlines, one of China’s leading cargo carriers and a subsidiary of SF Express. The partnership supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to position the Kingdom as a global logistics and transportation hub.
Officials said the agreement is expected to improve cargo handling efficiency, enhance service quality and strengthen supply chain connectivity between Saudi Arabia and China.
SAL air cargo deal expands logistics partnership
The agreement was signed through SAL’s Ground Handling Division and covers a range of operational services for SF Airlines’ flights operating within Saudi Arabia.
According to SAL, the company will provide air cargo handling, aircraft loading and unloading, as well as other integrated ground support services.
The partnership combines SAL’s logistics expertise with SF Airlines’ extensive international cargo network, creating opportunities to improve operational performance and freight reliability.
SF Airlines operates more than 130 destinations worldwide, making it one of China’s largest dedicated cargo airlines.
Saudi logistics strategy gains momentum
The SAL air cargo deal aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to transform the Kingdom into a leading regional logistics hub.
Under the National Aviation Strategy, Saudi Arabia aims to increase annual passenger traffic to 330 million, expand connectivity to more than 250 destinations and raise annual air cargo capacity to 4.5 million tonnes by 2030.
To achieve those targets, the Kingdom has continued investing heavily in logistics infrastructure, airport expansion and digital supply chain solutions.
Authorities also continue to attract international airlines and logistics providers to strengthen cross-border trade and improve freight movement.
China remains a key trade partner
Saudi Arabia and China have expanded economic cooperation significantly in recent years, with growing investments in energy, technology, manufacturing and logistics.
The latest agreement reflects the importance of air cargo in supporting bilateral trade and ensuring efficient movement of goods between both countries.
SF Airlines, established in 2009 and headquartered in Shenzhen, operates through major aviation hubs in Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Beijing and Ezhou.
Its extensive cargo network is expected to complement Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to become a regional distribution centre serving Asia, Europe and Africa.
SAL targets operational excellence
SAL said the partnership forms part of its long-term strategy to improve operational efficiency and expand its portfolio of integrated logistics services.
The company noted that enhanced ground handling capabilities would help improve turnaround times, cargo reliability and customer service for international airline partners.
SAL added that strengthening partnerships with leading global carriers remains central to its strategy of supporting international trade while raising operational standards across the Kingdom’s aviation sector.
The company believes the agreement will contribute to more resilient supply chains and greater competitiveness for Saudi Arabia’s logistics industry.
Vision 2030 drives cargo sector growth
Saudi Arabia has identified logistics as one of the key pillars of its economic diversification programme under Vision 2030.
The government continues to invest in ports, airports, free zones and digital infrastructure to increase the country’s role in global trade.
Officials say expanding partnerships with international carriers will improve connectivity, attract investment and create new opportunities for businesses operating across regional and global markets.
The Kingdom has also introduced several initiatives aimed at simplifying customs procedures and improving the efficiency of freight movement.
The SAL air cargo deal underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening its logistics capabilities while expanding strategic partnerships with major international cargo operators. As the Kingdom accelerates investment in aviation and supply chain infrastructure, agreements such as this are expected to enhance its position as a global hub for trade, transport and air cargo services.
