Saudi Arabia’s SAL Logistics Services has entered into a strategic partnership with China’s SF Airlines to provide integrated air cargo ground handling services, further strengthening logistics cooperation between the Kingdom and one of its largest trading partners.
The agreement, signed through SAL’s Ground Handling Division, will see the Saudi logistics company deliver a comprehensive range of operational services for SF Airlines, including air cargo handling, aircraft loading and unloading, and other flight support services. The partnership is expected to enhance cargo handling efficiency, operational reliability, and service quality for the Chinese cargo carrier’s operations in Saudi Arabia.
SF Airlines, a subsidiary of SF Express, is one of China’s largest dedicated air cargo carriers, operating a global network of more than 130 destinations. Established in 2009 and headquartered in Shenzhen, the airline operates through four major aviation hubs located in Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Beijing, and Ezhou.
The collaboration aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a global logistics and trade hub through significant investments in transport and supply chain infrastructure. Under the Saudi Aviation Strategy, the Kingdom targets handling 330 million passengers annually, connecting to more than 250 destinations, and increasing air cargo capacity to 4.5 million tonnes by 2030.
SAL stated that the agreement strengthens its integrated air cargo ground handling portfolio while expanding strategic partnerships with leading international cargo airlines. The company noted that the collaboration supports its commitment to delivering operational excellence, improving service efficiency, and enhancing supply chain resilience.
The partnership also reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to attract global cargo operators and deepen trade and investment ties with China, reinforcing the Kingdom’s ambition to become a leading regional and global logistics gateway.