Air Arabia will resume direct flights between Sharjah and Damascus starting July 10, 2025. The low-cost carrier will operate two daily flights, marking its return to Syria after more than a decade. The move supports growing travel demand, especially among the Syrian expatriate community in the UAE, and strengthens regional connectivity.
In a significant development for regional travel and connectivity, Air Arabia has announced the resumption of direct flights between Sharjah and Damascus, starting from July 10, 2025. This move marks the airline’s return to Syria after more than a decade-long suspension due to the conflict that gripped the country.
Air Arabia, the UAE’s first and largest low-cost carrier, will initially operate two daily non-stop flights on the route. Flights from Sharjah International Airport are scheduled to depart at 4:15 AM and 10:45 AM, with return flights from Damascus International Airport leaving at 7:30 AM and 2:00 PM. The schedule is designed to offer flexibility for both business and leisure travelers.
The decision to resume services comes amid improving diplomatic and economic relations between the UAE and Syria. It is expected to greatly benefit the Syrian expatriate community in the UAE, which numbers over 350,000, by making travel more convenient and affordable.
In a statement, Adel Al Ali, Group CEO of Air Arabia, said, “We are pleased to resume our operations to Damascus, a step that reinforces our commitment to connecting communities and strengthening regional ties. This route will serve the growing demand for travel between the UAE and Syria, both for personal and commercial purposes.”
The move also reflects a broader regional trend as other UAE-based carriers, such as flydubai and Emirates, have either resumed or announced plans to restart operations to Syria. This signals renewed confidence in Syria’s aviation infrastructure and a gradual normalization of international air travel to the country.
The resumption of flights is expected to have a positive impact on trade and tourism. In 2024, bilateral trade between the UAE and Syria reached AED 2.5 billion, representing a 23% increase compared to the previous year. Direct air connectivity is anticipated to boost this number further by facilitating easier movement of people and goods.
Air Arabia’s decision also aligns with its expansion strategy of reconnecting destinations that are witnessing increased stability and demand. The airline has been gradually reintroducing routes across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond as part of its post-pandemic recovery plan.
The flights to Damascus will be operated using Air Arabia’s modern Airbus A320 aircraft, known for comfort and efficiency. Passengers will have access to onboard shopping, snacks, and pre-booked meals, along with the airline’s standard options for additional baggage and seat selection.
As the aviation sector in the region continues to rebound, the reopening of the Sharjah–Damascus route is seen as a welcome step by travelers, businesses, and the large Syrian community in the UAE. It also highlights the growing role of low-cost carriers like Air Arabia in bridging distances and creating affordable travel options across the Arab world.
Air Arabia has opened bookings for the Damascus flights on its official website, mobile app, and travel partner channels. The airline encourages passengers to book early due to expected high demand.
