UAE to resume flights to Syria, regulator says

The General Civil Aviation Authority has announced the resumption of flights between the UAE and Syria.

The GCAA said on Monday that the countries are co-ordinating to restart flights between them “in a manner that enhances air traffic and supports passenger and cargo movement”.

The decision came after Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara visited the UAE on Sunday for the first time since taking office.

He met President Sheikh Mohamed, who said the UAE would “spare no effort in providing all possible support to Syria” and help the country to rebuild.

Countries had suspended flights to and from Syria during the civil war, but some have resumed routes since the removal of Bashar Al Assad from the Syrian presidency in December. Turkish Airlines resumed flights to Damascus on January 23, while Qatar Airways restarted on January 7.

International flights resume from Damascus – in pictures

In January, a Syrian Airlines flight to Sharjah was the first international commercial flight to depart from Damascus since the fall of the Assad regime.

“We welcome the latest announcement which reflects the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to fostering regional connectivity,” a flydubai spokesperson told The National.

“We continue to co-ordinate closely with the relevant authorities, and any announcements regarding the resumption of operations to Syria will be made once all the necessary preparations and approvals are in place.”

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi also said it was awaiting official guidance from the General Civil Aviation Authority.

"Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is continuously exploring exciting opportunities to expand its network and enhance regional connectivity. While this destination is under consideration, there are no updates to share just yet," the airline said on Tuesday.

In January, the airline's managing director Johan Eidhagen had told The National that the decision on whether to begin flights to Syria would depend on the Damascus airport's reliability, safety and security.

Mr Eidhagen at the time said he believed Wizz Air would fly into Syria “at some point” if the country continued its improvements.

Syria remains under western sanctions that have made economic recovery difficult. Mr Al Shara and Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani have been campaigning to have them lifted. The US said it approved of Mr Al Shara's government reshuffle last month but was not ready to lift sanctions. The EU has lifted some restrictions, allowing local banks to move money.