The UAE’s national airlines are ramping up their global presence, fuelled by the country’s robust reputation in tourism and business and a notable rebound in travel demand.
According to the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), passenger traffic is expected to hit 140 million, highlighting the growing competitiveness of UAE airlines.
UAE airlines flights
Official figures reveal that UAE airlines now serve around 606 destinations worldwide, encompassing passenger, cargo, and joint routes. This represents a 3.4% increase from the 586 destinations offered at the close of 2023.
Here’s how the airlines stack up:
- Emirates: Over 144 destinations
- Etihad Airways: 79 destinations
- flydubai: 125 destinations
- Air Arabia: 218 destinations
- Wizz Air Abu Dhabi: 40 destinations
Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is significantly expanding its route network, aiming to cover 125 destinations by 2030. The airline plans to enhance its strategic position between Asia and Europe and to boost its annual passenger count to 33 million. Etihad has already added 15 new routes in the past year, including to Lisbon, Copenhagen, Calcutta, and Osaka. Additionally, the airline will increase flights to Thailand to 41 per week starting October and resume flights to Nairobi on December 15.
In the first seven months of 2024, Etihad transported 10.4 million passengers and expanded its fleet to 93 aircraft, up from 78 in July 2023. The airline also recorded a significant financial performance with a net profit of AED 851 million, a 48% increase year-on-year, and a revenue growth of 21% to Dhs 11.7 billion.
Emirates Airlines
Emirates Airlines continues to expand its network, currently covering 144 destinations across six continents. In early October, the airline will upgrade its Boeing 777 fleet for flights to Zurich and Riyadh and introduce these modernized aircraft to Geneva and Brussels. This is part of Emirates’ extensive US$3 billion programme to enhance its passenger services and comfort.
flydubai
flydubai now serves 125 destinations across 58 countries with its fleet of 88 Boeing 737 aircraft. The airline recently inaugurated regular flights to EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg, making it the first UAE airline to offer direct flights from Dubai to this location. flydubai is also set to add Basel, Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius to its growing network. By the end of the year, the airline expects to receive seven new aircraft and hire over 130 additional pilots.
Air Arabia and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi
Air Arabia operates a broad network of 218 destinations from six hubs, including the UAE, Morocco, Egypt, and Pakistan. In the first half of 2024, the airline saw a 16% increase in passengers, reaching 8.9 million, with a strong seat occupancy rate of 81%.
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi continues to expand, now offering flights to 40 destinations. The airline is focused on meeting increasing demand with its modern fleet and plans to introduce new routes soon.
These expansions reflect the UAE’s commitment to enhancing global connectivity and catering to the growing needs of international travellers.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
