Etihad Airways has resumed direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Damascus, returning to Syria for the first time in roughly 14 years.
The four-times-weekly service is one of the most significant Gulf carrier returns as Syria reopens to international airlines.
What’s Changed
Etihad Airways relaunched its Abu Dhabi–Damascus route in June 2026, ending a suspension that began in 2012 when the country’s conflict escalated.
The route runs four times a week on an Airbus A321, connecting Zayed International Airport (AUH) with Damascus International Airport (DAM).
According to Etihad, Damascus is among more than two dozen new destinations the airline has added to its network over the past year.
Flight Schedule
Etihad operates the route on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. The published timings are below.
| Direction | Departs | Arrives |
|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi (AUH) → Damascus (DAM) | 14:00 | 16:20 |
| Damascus (DAM) → Abu Dhabi (AUH) | 17:50 | 22:00 |
The A321 flies in a two-class layout with Business and Economy cabins. Timings are shown in local time and can change, so confirm before booking.
Why Etihad Returned to Damascus
The airline says the route answers strong demand from the Syrian community living in the UAE, along with business travellers and families wanting a direct link between the two capitals.
CEO Antonoaldo Neves said the service connects “the Syrian community residing across the UAE, as well as business travellers and families seeking direct connections between the two capitals.”
The commercial case is real. Etihad points to deepening UAE–Syria ties:
- Syrian community: more than 350,000 Syrians live in the UAE.
- Trade: UAE–Syria trade grew 23% in 2024 to around AED 2.5 billion (about US$680 million).
Etihad joins a growing list of carriers restoring Syria service, including the resumption of Dubai–Damascus flights by Emirates.
What Travellers Should Know
If you’re planning to fly, two things matter most: entry rules and timing.
Check visa and entry requirements first. Rules for travel to Syria can change quickly. Confirm current requirements with the relevant Syrian authorities or your nearest embassy before booking.
You can compare fares and dates for the new route by searching flights to Damascus on Wego, and browse hotels in Damascus once your plans are set.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does Etihad fly to Damascus?
Etihad operates four flights a week between Abu Dhabi and Damascus, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays.
When did Etihad last fly to Damascus?
Etihad suspended its Damascus service in 2012 as the country’s conflict escalated. The 2026 relaunch is its first return to Syria in around 14 years.
Which aircraft operates the route?
Etihad uses an Airbus A321 with Business and Economy cabins on the Abu Dhabi–Damascus route.
Sources
Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.
