This company offers space travel for people from Saudi Arabia using a balloon

In an exciting development for space tourism, Halo Space, a Spanish company, is set to launch approximately 100 balloon-powered flights annually from Saudi Arabia, beginning commercial operations in 2026.

This innovative venture aims to position Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for space tourism, distinguishing it from neighboring countries that primarily focus on government-led space initiatives and satellite development.

Halo Space has successfully completed five test flights in India and California, with plans for its next test flight scheduled in a remote desert in Saudi Arabia. The launch window for this critical test is from September 27 to 30, taking advantage of the country’s favorable climatic conditions—clear skies and high visibility—alongside its spacious, non-crowded airspace.

Passengers will embark on journeys to an altitude of 35 kilometers, where they can witness the breathtaking curvature of the Earth set against the backdrop of space. Unlike traditional spaceflights, these experiences will not involve weightlessness. Ticket prices are set at €150,000 (approximately $167,000), slightly higher than US competitor Space Perspective, which offers a similar experience for $125,000 from Florida.

Carlos Mira, CEO of Halo Space, has emphasized the advantageous business environment in Saudi Arabia, which has allowed the company to establish its operational base there. The response to the venture has been encouraging, with a waiting list already forming for eager customers.

Currently, Halo Space has sold 11 tickets under its Pioneers program, offering participants the chance to be among the first flyers and provide valuable feedback on their experience. In addition to flights from Saudi Arabia, Halo Space plans to operate from locations in the US, Spain, and Australia, offering a luxury experience that includes fine dining and upscale seating.

While both Halo Space and Space Perspective cater to the luxury market, their operational models differ significantly. Halo Space will lift off and land directly on the ground, while Space Perspective’s Neptune capsule will launch from a ship and splash down in the ocean.

With a commitment to completing its test flight program and a goal to enable thousands of passengers to experience near-space travel by 2030, Halo Space is poised to make a significant impact on the burgeoning field of space tourism.