The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has announced the launch of Al Wahah Duty-Free, Saudi Arabia’s first locally owned duty-free retail operator specializing in travel retail.
The company aims to become a leader in the travel retail sector, increasing the Kingdom’s share of traveler spending and contributing to the Saudi economy.
Al Wahah will develop luxury retail outlets at selected locations across the Kingdom, particularly in airports and ports. The company will offer a diverse range of products, including luxury goods and high-quality Saudi products.
Additionally, Al Wahah will explore future opportunities to expand its services to land border points, seaports, and in-flight sales.
The launch of Al Wahah aligns with PIF’s series of major investments in the tourism, aviation, and retail sectors.
These investments include King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, which is set to become one of the world’s largest airports upon completion, and Riyadh Air, which aims to position Riyadh as a global travel hub.
Additionally, PIF’s investments extend to Cruise Saudi, dedicated to developing maritime tourism along the Red Sea coast, as well as Saudi Coffee Company, Al Madinah Heritage Company—specializing in premium date production—and Sawani, which focuses on camel milk products.
A PIF spokesperson stated, “PIF aims to enhance the growth of the duty-free sector and support its future development, especially given the expected increase in traveler numbers to the Kingdom and the rise in global events hosted by Saudi Arabia, such as sports and tourism activities.”
