UAE Airlines Prepare to Resume Flights to Syria

The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority has announced the resumption of commercial flights to Syria, with preparations underway to re-establish both passenger and cargo services between the two countries.

Flights between the UAE and Syria had been suspended in early January 2025, alongside broader regional travel bans that followed the Syrian political transition. However, signs of renewed connectivity have emerged over recent months. A Syrian Airlines flight to Sharjah on January 7th, 2025 marked the first international departure from Damascus since the regime change, carrying 145 passengers. Turkish Airlines resumed flights to Damascus on January 23rd, 2025, followed by Qatar Airways earlier that same month.

flydubai, which previously served Syrian routes, stated it is coordinating with authorities and will announce its plans once all clearances are secured. Meanwhile, low-cost carrier Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has indicated its interest in re-entering the Syrian market, pending safety and airport assessments.

This move by the UAE reflects a broader regional shift toward re-engagement with Syria, as countries begin to re-establish ties and explore new travel and trade channels after years of diplomatic and aviation isolation.