Etihad Airways Expands Network with New Route to Damascus: A Strategic Move for Travel and Connectivity
By ARN News Staff
Thursday, 18 September 2025
In a significant announcement indicative of rising demand and increased connectivity within the region, Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national carrier, has unveiled plans to initiate flights to Damascus, Syria, starting in June 2026. This development is poised to play a pivotal role in enhancing travel options for residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the wider Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
The new service will comprise four weekly flights, which will be operated using Etihad’s Airbus A320 aircraft. This model is well-regarded for its efficiency and comfort and will feature eight Business Class seats alongside 150 Economy Class seats. With this configuration, travellers will benefit from a balance of luxury and value that caters to varied preferences and budgets.
The decision to re-establish flights to Damascus, a city steeped in history and culture, is not merely a commercial venture but reflects a broader commitment to fostering ties between the UAE and Syria. It comes at a time when increasing numbers of expatriates and investors from the UAE are expressing interest in the region. “We are proud to expand our network into Damascus – one of the world’s most historic and culturally important cities – and to support the Syrian population with direct links to and from Abu Dhabi, as well as convenient onward connections across our global network,” affirmed Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways.
This expansion aligns with Etihad’s larger strategy to enhance connectivity and counteract the turbulence that the airline industry has faced in recent years, particularly amid the challenges posed by the global pandemic. With a commitment to recovery and growth, the airline is meticulously crafting its network to respond to the evolving travel landscape and consumer preferences.
The significance of Damascus as a destination should not be understated. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, its rich historical tapestry offers a myriad of attractions, from its stunning Umayyad Mosque to the ancient city walls and souks that make up its vibrant culture. For UAE residents and tourists alike, the opportunity to visit such a historically rich locale, particularly with the convenience of direct flights, is likely to enhance cultural exchanges and bolster tourism.
Moreover, the reintroduction of air services to Syria is anticipated to foster economic growth. As the country continues its recovery from years of conflict, which has significantly impacted its infrastructure and tourism sectors, renewed flights could attract expatriates and investors eager to engage with the Syrian market. This initiative can also provide an essential lifeline for families and communities yearning to reconnect after years of separation.
Etihad Airways is distinguished by its expansive global reach, ensuring that travellers from Damascus will benefit from convenient connections through Abu Dhabi. This strategic hub allows for seamless onward travel to numerous destinations worldwide, making it an attractive gateway for international travel. The linkage also holds the potential to stimulate trade between the UAE and Syria, thereby enhancing business relations and investment opportunities within the region.
As the summer of 2026 approaches, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the response to this new route, including passenger uptake and overall market reaction. This development could set a precedent for similar expansions by other airlines looking to establish or re-establish links with Syria and potentially other regions facing similar challenges.
In summary, Etihad Airways’ planned route to Damascus is not just a reflection of increasing demand among travellers in the UAE and GCC but serves as a strategic effort to revive and enhance connections within the region. As one of the world’s most historically significant cities embarks on a new chapter, the airline is well-positioned to play a crucial role in facilitating travel, fostering cultural ties, and supporting economic recovery.
Tags: #UAE, #StartupsEntrepreneurship, #TravelTourism