A new link between London Gatwick and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, launched by flag carrier Saudia, presents significant opportunities for businesses in the Gatwick Diamond region. Saudi Arabia stands as the top trading partner for this region, accounting for 17% of all exports from Sussex, Surrey, and Kent. With key exports including manufacturing and engineering goods, bio-life sciences, and pharmaceutical items, the Gatwick Link to Saudi Arabia is poised to provide a boost to trade volumes, job creation, and economic growth.
The top line:
- 17% of all Sussex, Surrey and Kent exports go to Saudi Arabia – more than any other destination.
- Key exports include manufacturing and engineering goods, bio-life sciences, and pharmaceutical items.
- Flag carrier Saudia began operating flights between London Gatwick and Jeddah last week.
- Currently operates six times per week; set to become daily in August
In more detail:
1. Enhanced Trade Potential
The introduction of the Saudia route establishes a direct and convenient connection between Gatwick and Saudi Arabia, offering an improved trading environment for businesses in the region.
By capitalising on this link, international businesses can explore new opportunities in one of the largest export markets for Sussex, Surrey, and Kent. The availability of air cargo services on long-haul passenger flights further facilitates the transportation of goods, contributing to increased trade volumes.
2. Expansion of Connectivity
The six-times-per-week service, set to become daily in August, provides a direct route to Jeddah. It also offers excellent onward connections to various destinations such as Pakistan, Malaysia, India, and Bangladesh. This expanded connectivity opens doors for businesses to establish and strengthen relationships with partners in these countries, enabling further trade diversification and market expansion.
3. Socio-economic Impact
The introduction of the new Saudi Arabia route has far-reaching socio-economic implications for the Gatwick Diamond region. Local businesses, especially those engaged in manufacturing, engineering, bio-life sciences, and pharmaceutical sectors, will benefit from increased trade opportunities and a wider customer base. The positive impact can lead to job creation and economic growth within the region.
4. Support from Business Associations
Industry leaders, such as Brett North, Chairman of the Gatwick Diamond Initiative; Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer at London Gatwick; and Ana Christie, Chief Executive of the Sussex Chamber of Commerce, have expressed their enthusiasm for the new route. They highlight the significance of the Saudi Arabian market for Sussex businesses. They also emphasise the potential for expanding business relations, exploring new opportunities, attracting inward investment, and fostering economic growth.
Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer, London Gatwick said: “At London Gatwick, we continue to provide new global routes that support jobs, trade and opportunities for people and businesses across the South East.
“With Saudia’s base in Jeddah, this new route also provides excellent onward connections to destinations such as Pakistan, Malaysia, India and Bangladesh.”
Ana Christie, Chief Executive, Sussex Chamber of Commerce said: “Sussex Chamber is delighted to hear that Gatwick is expanding its routes to Saudi Arabia. This is one of the largest export markets for Sussex businesses, who export a multitude of manufacturing and engineering goods, as well as bio-life sciences, and pharmaceutical items. Sussex Chamber provides essential trade documentation for hundreds of businesses, the majority of which export to the Middle East.
“This new route at London Gatwick will allow businesses to expand business relations, explore new opportunities in Saudi Arabia and help attract inward investment back into the area, which will lead to economic growth.”
Brett North, Chairman of the Gatwick Diamond Initiative, said: “The Gatwick Diamond region welcomes the new link to Saudi Arabia. This development opens up significant opportunities for our businesses, particularly in the manufacturing, engineering, bio-life sciences, and pharmaceutical sectors. As one of the largest export markets for our region, Saudi Arabia holds immense potential for trade growth and economic prosperity in the Gatwick Diamond region.
“The improved connectivity provided by the London Gatwick-Jeddah route allows Gatwick Diamond businesses to expand their networks, establish stronger business relationships, and tap into the vast potential of the Saudi market. This development will not only drive trade but also attract valuable inward investment, fostering economic growth and creating new job opportunities within our region.”
Gatwick Link to Saudi Arabia: Summing Up
The launch of the new link between London Gatwick and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, represents a pivotal moment for businesses in the Gatwick Diamond region. With Saudi Arabia being the top trading partner and accounting for a substantial portion of exports from Sussex, Surrey, and Kent, this development offers immense potential for increased trade, job creation, and economic prosperity.
International businesses based in Gatwick Diamond are well placed to make the most improved connectivity, explore new markets, and strengthen their presence in the region, fostering long-term growth and success.