Alberta premier confirms Saudi government covered private flight during 2024 trip

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says she travelled on a private aircraft arranged by the Saudi government during an official trip to the Middle East last fall, adding that the travel was approved in advance by the province’s ethics commissioner.

Smith confirmed the arrangement Tuesday during a legislative committee meeting while responding to questions tied to Alberta’s 2026 budget. The premier said the non-commercial flight was proposed by Saudi officials to allow for more efficient travel between engagements.

According to Smith, the trip included meetings in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates focused on potential collaboration in energy development. She said her office sought and received clearance from the ethics commissioner prior to departure for both the flight and accommodations provided by host governments.

Smith also confirmed she stayed in government-arranged lodging during the visit, describing it as consistent with diplomatic protocol. She said these arrangements were likewise reviewed and approved under provincial ethics rules.

The premier said her relationship with Saudi Arabia’s energy minister, Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud, began at an energy conference in Calgary several years ago and led to the invitation for the visit.

The premier’s office had not previously disclosed details of the private flight.