The UAE’s aviation sector is reaching new heights as national carriers now serve a remarkable 606 destinations worldwide. This growth is a testament to the UAE’s rising status as a major global travel hub and reflects an increase in travel demand and the country’s strong tourism and business reputation.
UAE Airlines’ Expanding Reach
The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) predicts that passenger traffic in the UAE will reach 140 million, underscoring the rapid growth and competitive nature of UAE airlines. The number of destinations served has grown from 586 at the end of 2023 to 606, marking a 3.4% increase.
Here’s a look at the destinations served by each major UAE carrier:
Air Arabia
Air Arabia is leading with 218 destinations. The airline’s broad network spans from the UAE to Morocco, Egypt, and Pakistan. In the first half of 2024, Air Arabia reported a net profit of AED 693 million ($189 million) and served 8.9 million passengers.
Emirates
Emirates operates 144 destinations across six continents. The airline is set to enhance its services with upgraded Boeing 777 aircraft, adding new flights to Zurich and Riyadh in October and expanding services in Geneva and Brussels. This is part of Emirates’ $3 billion program to upgrade 80 Boeing 777 aircraft, aiming to improve passenger experiences.
flydubai
flydubai flies to 125 destinations in 58 countries, including Africa, Europe, and Asia. The airline recently started flights to EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg and plans to introduce new routes to Basel, Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius. By the end of the year, flydubai will add seven new aircraft to its fleet and hire over 130 new pilots.
Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is expanding its network with a goal of 125 destinations by 2030. The airline added 15 new routes in 2024, including Lisbon and Copenhagen. Etihad will also boost flights to Thailand and resume services to Nairobi. The airline’s fleet grew to 93 aircraft by July 2024, up from 78 a year earlier. Etihad reported a net profit of AED 851 million ($231.7 million) for the first half of 2024.
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi offers flights to 40 destinations. The airline continues to grow its network with plans to add more routes and modernize its fleet to meet increasing travel demand.
The expansion of UAE airlines to over 600 destinations highlights their significant role in global aviation. As these carriers expand and enhance their services, they are solidifying the UAE’s status as a global travel hub.
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