Etihad Airways to start services to Damascus next June
Etihad Airways has announced plans to launch flights to Damascus, Syria, beginning in June 2026. The move marks a renewed connection between Abu Dhabi and one of the region’s most historic capitals, responding to growing demand from travelers across the UAE and the wider GCC.
Launch timeline and frequency
Starting June 2026, Etihad will operate four flights per week between Abu Dhabi and Damascus. The schedule is designed to provide convenient options for both business and leisure travelers while supporting smooth onward connections through the airline’s hub.
Aircraft and onboard experience
The route will be served by Etihad’s Airbus A320 aircraft, configured with a total of 158 seats: eight in Business and 150 in Economy. Passengers can expect Etihad’s signature service standards, with the added benefit of a short-haul narrowbody aircraft optimized for regional travel.
Seamless global connectivity via Abu Dhabi
Travelers flying to or from Damascus will have access to Etihad’s extensive global network through Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi. The new route is intended to simplify journeys for those connecting to destinations across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and beyond, reducing overall travel time and offering coordinated itineraries on a single ticket.
Why this route matters
- Direct link: A non-stop option between Abu Dhabi and Damascus adds convenience for travelers visiting family, conducting business, or exploring cultural sites.
- Network access: Easy transfers to Etihad’s worldwide destinations via Abu Dhabi.
- Consistent product: A320 service with dedicated Business and Economy cabins tailored for regional travel.
Leadership perspective
Etihad’s leadership emphasized that expanding into Damascus aligns with the airline’s broader network strategy. The carrier highlighted Damascus’s cultural significance and the importance of providing direct links for the Syrian population to and from Abu Dhabi, alongside convenient onward connections across its global network.
Further details, including the exact flight schedule and fare options, will be communicated by the airline closer to the launch date.
