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Etihad to Launch Direct Abu Dhabi–Damascus Flights, Expanding Middle East Connections Etihad to Launch Direct Abu Dhabi–Damascus Flights, Expanding Middle East Connections

Etihad Airways is set to expand its Middle Eastern network with the introduction of direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Damascus, starting June 2026. This strategic move will see four weekly services operated by Airbus A320 aircraft, offering a total of 8 Business Class seats and 150 Economy seats per flight. The announcement positions Damascus as the 28th new destination added to Etihad’s growing route map in the past year, underlining the airline’s commitment to connecting high-demand markets across the region.

The decision to launch the new route is driven by mounting demand from travelers in the UAE and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) seeking direct access to the Syrian capital. Recent trade statistics highlight the economic momentum fueling this demand: in 2024, trade between the UAE and Syria rose by an impressive 23% year-on-year to AED 2.5 billion (US \$680 million). The UAE is also home to a vibrant Syrian community of over 350,000 residents, whose contributions span business, culture, and society, strengthening ties between the two nations.

This new air link is expected to further reinforce the economic relationship and cultural exchange between Abu Dhabi and Damascus. As trade and investment activities continue to grow, direct flights will offer businesses, families, and leisure travelers more efficient options for travel, fostering new opportunities for both countries. The enhanced connectivity is particularly significant for corporate clients and tour operators looking to tap into evolving demand for travel between the Levant and the Gulf.

Etihad’s rapid network expansion reflects a broader trend of airlines responding to shifting travel patterns and emerging market opportunities. The carrier has reported an 80% increase in passenger numbers compared to 2022 levels, with ambitious plans to reach 38 million passengers annually by 2030. The addition of Damascus to the Etihad network is part of a strategic blueprint to serve routes that align with customer demand and support the wider economic aspirations of Abu Dhabi and the region.

For Africa’s travel sector, Etihad’s growth in the Middle East opens new avenues for multi-city itineraries and business partnerships, particularly for agencies facilitating travel between Africa, the Gulf, and the Levant. The increased connectivity also enhances access to broader tourism, trade, and investment networks that are vital for regional economic integration and diversification.

Travel professionals should note that the new Abu Dhabi–Damascus route, with its convenient schedule and modern cabin configuration, is positioned to attract both business and leisure travelers. The direct flights are expected to streamline travel logistics for the large Syrian diaspora in the UAE and meet the needs of businesses seeking efficient connections to Syria’s capital city.

As Etihad continues its ambitious expansion, the airline’s focus on new destinations like Damascus signals growing confidence in the region’s recovery and the resilience of air travel demand. African tour operators and industry stakeholders should monitor these developments closely, as enhanced connectivity between the Gulf and Levant can create new opportunities for cross-regional collaboration and product innovation.