In Saudi Arabia, the landscape is undergoing transformative change, spurred by Vision 2030’s drive to diversify the economy beyond its traditional oil-based foundations. In this evolving context, many young Saudis like Shooq Madkhali are at the forefront of the burgeoning sectors of tourism and aviation, seizing new opportunities that were once unimaginable.
At Red Sea International Airport, Shooq’s contributions within the Guest Services and Airport Operations team highlight the potential for young professionals to excel and innovate. While she is but one of many young professionals riding the wave of this national transformation, her journey offers a compelling glimpse into the personal and professional growth that teh transition is fostering among Saudi youth.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the aviation industry after completing your education?
Aviation always held a certain allure for me, but it was the educational initiatives by Red Sea Global that truly paved the way. The comprehensive training and support I received were instrumental in launching my career at this exciting juncture for Saudi aviation.
Could you describe your experience during the first international flight arrival at Red Sea International Airport?
Being part of that landmark event was exhilarating. Ensuring everything went smoothly for our guests required meticulous planning and teamwork, reflecting our commitment to excellence in Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism and aviation sectors.
How does your role contribute to Saudi Arabia’s evolving tourism industry?
In airport operations, we’re the first contact for visitors, setting the tone for their stay. My role is crucial in not just meeting but exceeding guest expectations, which is vital as we aim to transform Saudi Arabia into a premier tourism destination.
Reflecting on the goals of Vision 2030, how do they align with your career growth?
Vision 2030 has not just shaped the infrastructure but also the professional opportunities in aviation. It’s inspiring to be part of a national vision that fosters innovation and growth, and I’m excited about the new career avenues it has opened for young professionals like myself.
What excites you most about the future of tourism in Saudi Arabia?
The sector’s rapid expansion promises substantial career opportunities for young Saudis, enriching our economic and cultural landscapes.
As a pioneering woman in this industry, what has your experience been like?
Entering aviation, a traditionally male-dominated field, presented challenges, but also significant opportunities to lead and inspire. The landscape is changing, and Vision 2030 has accelerated the empowerment of women in all sectors, encouraging us to aspire to roles that were previously unattainable.
Shooq Madkhali’s journey at Red Sea International Airport is not just a tale of personal achievement but a symbol of the broader shift within Saudi Arabia. Her story is a testament to the possibilities that emerge when a nation commits to transformation and inclusivity.
As Saudi Arabia continues to carve out a new identity on the global stage, driven by its ambitious Vision 2030 goals, it is the efforts and achievements of young professionals like Shooq that illuminate the path forward. They are the real engines of change, powering a new era of economic diversification and cultural openness. Through her eyes, we see not only the skies that have long been open but now, more than ever, wide open to the dreams and ambitions of all Saudis, especially its women.
Shooq’s ascent in aviation is a vivid reminder that in the new Saudi Arabia, the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning..
The Tourism Generation; where Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 comes to life, showcasing the vibrant careers and cultural revolutions shaping the future of tourism.
