Etihad Airways Expands with Damascus Flights
Etihad Airways has announced the introduction of direct flights to Damascus, Syria, starting in June 2026. This new route will run four times a week, linking Abu Dhabi directly to Damascus via Etihad’s Airbus A320 aircraft.
Etihad’s New Flights to Damascus
This new route fits within Etihad Airways’ strategy to grow its presence in the Middle East. It caters to the demand from UAE and GCC travelers for direct access to Syria, and offers Syrian travelers convenient connections through Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport to Etihad’s extended network.
Starting in June 2026, the airline will operate four weekly Airbus A320 flights, featuring eight Business Class seats and 150 Economy Class seats.
Including Damascus, Etihad has added 28 new destinations over the past year, enhancing Abu Dhabi’s stature as a major aviation hub.
Damascus Flight Schedule (Effective 12 June 2026)
| Flight Number | Departure Airport | Departure Time | Arrival Airport | Arrival Time | Frequency | Aircraft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EY561 | Abu Dhabi (AUH) | 09:15 | Damascus (DAM) | 11:30 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat | A320 |
| EY562 | Damascus (DAM) | 15:00 | Abu Dhabi (AUH) | 19:00 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat | A320 |
Understanding the Risks in Damascus
As of 2025, Damascus is still considered one of the world’s most dangerous cities owing to Syria’s ongoing conflict since 2011. The Global Peace Index places Syria at low rankings due to conflicts and militarization. In 2025, Damascus faced challenges such as Israeli airstrikes, rebel clashes, and ISIS presence.
Humanitarian crises affect a majority of the population, with millions displaced. Numbeo ranks Damascus as Asia’s most dangerous city, citing lawlessness. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index places it at 140th out of 173 cities, with low scores in stability and infrastructure.
While risks like bombings and kidnappings persist, travel advisories caution against visiting, despite the city’s historical significance.
Strengthening UAE–Syria Relations
The establishment of direct flights highlights more than just transport; it denotes strengthened political and cultural ties between the UAE and Syria. In the past decade, the UAE has been a significant partner in Syria’s reconstruction, providing aid and engaging in various initiatives.
Economic relations are improving, with bilateral trade reaching AED 2.5 billion in 2024, up by 23% from the previous year. Key sectors include construction, food, and consumer goods. This air link aims to streamline trade and enable quicker cargo transit.
Approximately 350,000 Syrians reside in the UAE, contributing significantly across multiple industries. The new flights are anticipated to enhance family connections and travel accessibility.
Diplomatically, the UAE serves as a mediator in the Middle East, with increased connectivity facilitating collaboration in education, healthcare, tourism, and investment.
Etihad Airways’ Growth Strategy
Etihad Airways is committed to expanding its network, focusing on making Abu Dhabi a prime aviation hub. With 28 new destinations added recently, the airline targets high-demand markets.
In 2023, passenger numbers rose by 80% over 2022, highlighting the recovery and demand for air travel. Etihad invests in modernizing its fleet and improving customer service. By 2030, it aims to transport 38 million passengers annually.
Optimizing connectivity at Zayed International Airport, expanding codeshares, and tapping into underserved markets are central to achieving its growth goals. Flights to Damascus align with this vision, offering direct links to an important historical site while fostering cultural and economic connections.
