Dammam Airports Company (DACO) is the organization responsible for the management, operation, and development of King Fahd International Airport (DMM), which is located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.
Established in July 2017, DACO has taken the lead in enhancing the airport’s operational efficiency, services, and infrastructure, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s broader vision of becoming a global logistics hub as part of Vision 2030.
Key Responsibilities
DACO oversees all aspects of airport operations, from aviation services and passenger handling to non-aviation services like retail and property management. One of the company’s core objectives is to enhance passenger experience by modernizing facilities, increasing capacity, and attracting more airlines.
DACO is also responsible for maintaining safety and security standards at DMM, which is crucial given the airport’s role as a major entry point for both international and domestic travelers.
Vision and Strategic Goals
DACO’s mission revolves around elevating King Fahd International Airport into a world-class facility. Their strategic goals are aligned with Vision 2030, focusing on increasing passenger capacity, growing cargo operations, and improving overall efficiency. The airport has been undergoing continuous upgrades, including the expansion of terminals, the introduction of advanced technologies, and improvements in passenger amenities such as lounges and duty-free shopping areas.
Operations and Achievements
DACO has successfully attracted new airlines and expanded flight routes, contributing to a steady increase in passenger traffic. The company is also working on improving cargo services, positioning DMM as a key player in logistics and freight within the region. In recent years, the airport has also seen the development of its surrounding areas, with DACO encouraging investment in airport city projects and other commercial ventures.
DACO’s efforts have significantly enhanced the airport’s reputation and made it a vital hub for both international and domestic flights in Saudi Arabia. The company continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of air travel and logistics in the Eastern Province.
Insights from DACO’s COO
Damian Ellacott, the Chief Operating Officer at DACO was featured on the International Airport Review and he emphasizes the critical importance of operational effectiveness, efficiency, and excellence across all airport functions.
Ellacott describes DMM as a “complex system of businesses and stakeholders” where these three operational pillars are key to balancing safety, regulatory compliance, and commercial success. He notes, “Operational excellence is about fostering a culture where seeking excellence becomes instinctive.”
Below are some key takeaways from the Ellacott’s interview;
1. Operational Effectiveness, Efficiency, and Excellence
- Operational Excellence: DACO has implemented a culture of operational excellence across its operations, modeled after high-performing teams like the Red Arrows. This philosophy is integrated not only in technical performance but also in collaboration with stakeholders to meet safety, regulatory, and commercial goals.
- Operational Effectiveness: At DMM, operational effectiveness is driven by clear goals that are aligned across multiple stakeholders including airlines, ground services, and commercial operations. DACO ensures every department understands its role in maintaining smooth airport operations.
- Operational Efficiency: Efficiency is at the core of DACO’s mission, balancing safety, speed, and resource utilization. Processes such as aircraft handling, passenger movement, and baggage operations are continuously refined to minimize complexity while maximizing throughput.
2. Technology Integration and Data Utilization
DACO leverages advanced technology such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) to optimize airport operations. LiDAR allows for highly accurate passenger flow measurement, helping the airport manage queues, reduce waiting times, and enhance the overall traveler experience. Integrating data from sensors, Wi-Fi access points, and Airport Operational Databases (AODB) enables DACO to fine-tune its services from curb to gate. The use of such technologies contributes to improved operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
3. Challenges and Collaboration with Stakeholders
Airports, including DMM, operate in complex environments where numerous stakeholders (airlines, ground handling, regulatory bodies) have overlapping but sometimes conflicting goals. DACO emphasizes the importance of continuous alignment of these objectives, working proactively to prevent conflicts that may arise during operations (e.g., delays or disruptions). By fostering a collaborative culture, DACO ensures smoother and more predictable outcomes during operational challenges.
4. Future Outlook and Vision
DACO’s strategy is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, positioning King Fahd International Airport as a key player in the nation’s ambition to be a global logistics hub. Ongoing projects include expansion plans, infrastructure modernization, and service improvements that will support both increased passenger capacity and enhanced cargo handling capabilities. DACO aims to further elevate DMM as a world-class airport through innovation, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
DACO remains a central figure in the growth and operational success of King Fahd International Airport, contributing to the airport’s pivotal role in regional and global aviation.
Here is a list of the Board of Directors for Dammam Airports Company responsible for setting the vision and foreseeing the implementation;
- Raed Hasan Al-Idrissi – Chairman
- Khalid Mutlaq Al Hamash – Deputy Chairman
- Turki Saad Al Mubadal – Board Member
- Ahmed Sulaiman Al Muhaidib – Board Member
- Fahad Saleh Al Mutlaq – Board Member
Read more on Daco’s website here.
You can also check out their latest updates on their X/Twitter page here.