Captain Farres Moneer of the Saudi Aviation Club has brought the 118th FAI General Conference to Saudi Arabia and established the ‘Sand&Fun’ Airshow as a major aviation event.

Held at Riyadh's Thumamah airport, Sand&Fun has become a global attraction, blending aerial displays with education. It aims to inspire passion for aviation through exploring flight's links with history and science.

This year's event runs from 19 to 23 November in Riyadh, coinciding with the 118th FAI Conference (19-21 November), allowing attendees to experience the spectacular airshow.

Capt. Farres Moneer, what are your roles and responsibilities within the Saudi Aviation Club?

With a career encompassing both military and general aviation, I have had the privilege of serving as a Board Member and Executive Director at the Saudi Aviation Club. In this capacity, I have spearheaded initiatives to promote general and sport aviation, positioning SAC as the leading institution in Saudi Arabia’s general aviation landscape. My efforts included the establishment of SAC’s flight training and maintenance departments, which have opened pathways for many individuals to realise their dreams of becoming pilots.

In addition, as an advisor to His Royal Highness Sultan bin Salman, the founder and chairman of SAC, I remain dedicated to support initiatives aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, focusing on business development, fostering growth, and enhancing community engagement through aviation.

Could you tell us about your experiences and contributions at Sand&Fun?

The Saudi General Aviation Airshow (Sand&Fun) is of great significance to us, embodying the vision for a dynamic aviation future in Saudi Arabia. Extensive efforts have been dedicated to transforming this event into an internationally recognised airshow. By leveraging management expertise and industry insights, Sand&Fun has been developed into an inspiring and accessible experience for individuals of all ages. Under the guidance of HRH Prince Sultan and with the support of a talented team, we have successfully curated a diverse array of aviation displays, interactive experiences, and educational content, establishing Sand&Fun as a premier aviation event.

What does bringing the 118th FAI General Conference to Saudi Arabia mean to you?

Hosting the 118th FAI General Conference is a remarkable achievement for us all, as it represents the first time this prestigious event will take place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This milestone is a significant step in establishing Saudi Arabia as a key player in the global aviation events arena, drawing international attention to the substantial advancements the Kingdom is making across various sectors in pursuit of the Vision 2030 objectives. I am personally honoured to be part of this historic occasion and look forward to welcoming all the FAI delegations and guests to Riyadh.

About the Sand&Fun Airshow

The Sand&Fun Airshow is more than just an airshow; it’s a festival of flight that celebrates the beauty and excitement of aviation while promoting public interest in this growing field. Held at Thumamah airport in Riyadh, it has become a cornerstone event, drawing participants and audiences from around the globe. Its mission is to offer an immersive experience where spectators not only witness thrilling aerial displays but also engage with the history and science of aviation.

Hangar Talks
A standout feature of Sand&Fun is the “Hangar Talks” where aviation experts, industry leaders, and pioneers share their knowledge and insights. These talks provide a rare opportunity for attendees to engage with professionals in the field, explore current trends, and hear stories from those who have dedicated their lives to aviation. This initiative is designed to inspire and educate, especially for those aspiring to a career in aviation.

Edutainment Aspects of Sand&Fun
SAC believe in the concept of ‘edutainment’: learning through enjoyment. This is evident in the interactive exhibits, hands-on simulators, and science demonstrations that allow attendees to explore aviation technology and principles firsthand. The goal is to spark curiosity, especially among young audiences, and to create memorable experiences that combine education with the thrill of aviation.

Unique Highlights of Sand&Fun
The event also features unique highlights like the “Pilot for a Day” experience, allowing attendees to try their hand at flight simulators, and the spectacular drone and fireworks displays, which bring a close to each day with a celebration of light and technology. Additionally, it offers exclusive tours for students, giving them the opportunity to explore aviation careers and technology. Sand&Fun has truly grown into a comprehensive, family-friendly event that celebrates the spirit of flight and the future of aviation in Saudi Arabia.