MELBOURNE Avalon Airport is looking to establish a direct air freight corridor between Australia and Saudi Arabia, signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Australia Saudi Logistics Alliance (ASL Alliance).
The agreement is said to build upon “growing momentum” for direct cargo connectivity between the two nations after the recent announcement of Saudia Cargo's planned entry into the Australian market.
The partnership positions Melbourne Avalon Airport as a future gateway for direct freight services connecting Australian exporters with Saudi Arabia and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
Avalon Airport chief executive Ari Suss said the partnership represented a critical opportunity to strengthen Australia's export capability.
"For too long, Australian exporters have lacked a direct and efficient freight connection into Saudi Arabia and the broader Gulf region," Mr Suss said.
"This MoU is about changing that. Avalon is building a new international freight gateway for Australia, and this partnership creates a pathway to unlock significant trade opportunities across agriculture, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing and e-commerce.
"We see enormous potential in strengthening the economic relationship between our two nations and positioning Avalon as a key link connecting Australian producers to global markets."
Australian exports to Saudi Arabia were valued at $882 million in 2025.
Direct services are expected to provide exporters with faster access to Middle Eastern markets, reducing reliance on third-country trans-shipment hubs.
The agreement is also said to align with Melbourne Avalon Airport's broader freight growth strategy, supported by its new cargo facility and growing logistics precinct.
Australia Saudi Logistics Alliance representative Sam Jamsheedi said the partnership reflected growing commitment to strengthening commercial ties between Australia and Saudi Arabia.
"The Australia Saudi Logistics Alliance was established to bring together industry, government and logistics stakeholders to support stronger freight connectivity and deeper commercial engagement between our nations," Mr Jamsheedi, chair of the Australia Saudi Business Chambers said.
"This partnership with Melbourne Avalon Airport is an important step towards delivering practical outcomes that improve market access, strengthen supply chains and create new opportunities for businesses in both countries."
The Australia Saudi Logistics Alliance is a not-for-profit industry committee established under the Australia Saudi Business Chambers.
The MoU is said to represent another milestone in the development of a direct Australia-Saudi Arabia cargo corridor and supports broader efforts to strengthen bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation between the two countries.