Emirates airline is scheduled to resume flights to Damascus starting July 16, marking the first time operations have been in place since they were suspended in 2012. This decision follows a thorough evaluation conducted in collaboration with the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority.

Initially, the airline will operate three weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays. Plans are in place to increase this to four weekly flights beginning August 2, which will include an additional service on Saturdays.

The resumption of flights is part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral relations and support Syria’s ambitions to rebuild and attract foreign investment, particularly in sectors such as energy, construction, and agriculture.

Customers traveling to and from Damascus will also benefit from Emirates’ codeshare partnership with flydubai, which will provide additional options and convenience for travelers.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, stated that re-establishing air travel is beneficial for the substantial Syrian diaspora living in the Americas, Europe, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). He remarked that these individuals are eager to reconnect with their roots and contribute their skills and resources to ongoing development efforts in Syria.

Trade volumes between the UAE and Syria reached $680 million (Dh2.5 billion) in 2024, reflecting a 23 percent increase from the previous year. The new flights are expected to further bolster these important trade ties.

The UAE is home to a vibrant Syrian community of over 350 000 nationals, who have significantly contributed to the UAE’s economic growth through entrepreneurial initiatives and expertise.

Emirates began its services to Damascus in 1988, and before halting operations in 2012, the airline had transported over 2.1 million passengers in and out of Syria. Currently, Emirates operates flights to 13 cities within the Middle East and GCC, totaling 191 weekly flights.