flydubai Reconnects the Skies: First UAE Carrier to Land in Damascus Since Conflict
In a historic development for regional aviation and diplomacy, flydubai has become the first airline from the United Arab Emirates to resume commercial flights to Damascus, Syria. This milestone marks a significant step in normalizing relations between the two nations after more than a decade of suspended air travel due to the Syrian conflict.
On June 1, 2025, flydubai’s inaugural flight FZ229 took off from Terminal 2 at Dubai International Airport and touched down at Damascus International Airport in the evening hours. The airline’s entry into the Syrian capital after years of political tension and civil unrest symbolizes not just the resumption of air connectivity but also a deeper gesture of diplomatic engagement and rebuilding regional ties.
Why This Matters
The return of direct commercial flights between the UAE and Syria is not merely a logistical milestone. It’s a powerful signal of normalization in a region that has seen major political shifts over the past few years. The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011, led to widespread devastation and the severing of ties with several Arab nations. Air services to Syria were halted by most international carriers as conflict and safety concerns dominated the region.
Now, over a decade later, the resumption of flights is a sign of cautious optimism. It underscores Syria’s gradual re-entry into the Arab diplomatic and economic sphere, coinciding with its recent re-admittance to the Arab League and improved ties with Gulf nations like the UAE.
A Strategic Move for flydubai
flydubai has always positioned itself as a carrier focused on opening underserved routes in emerging markets. With Damascus added to its network, the airline is not only expanding its footprint but also tapping into a niche market poised for recovery and development.
Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO of flydubai, was present on the inaugural flight and emphasized the airline’s mission: “flydubai was established to make travel more accessible. By adding Damascus to our growing network, we are broadening travel options with affordable fares and reliable service.” He also acknowledged the cooperation of UAE and Syrian authorities in making the historic flight possible.
The reintroduction of the Damascus route is expected to benefit multiple stakeholders—Syrian expatriates, businesses, and travelers with cultural or familial connections to the region. As the security situation in Syria improves, there is growing demand for international travel, particularly from the Syrian diaspora looking to reconnect with their homeland.
Implications for the Region
The geopolitical significance of this development cannot be overstated. The UAE has been at the forefront of diplomatic efforts to re-engage Syria. In 2018, the UAE reopened its embassy in Damascus, and more recently, top-level visits between Syrian and Emirati officials have become more common. This resumption of commercial flights can be viewed as a natural extension of those diplomatic gestures.
It also reflects broader Arab-world dynamics. As the region moves toward stabilization, countries are reevaluating their relationships with Syria. The return of air travel is a concrete sign that regional powers are ready to explore the possibility of Syria’s reintegration into regional commerce and diplomacy, albeit carefully and gradually.
What This Means for Syrian Aviation
For Syria, this event marks a critical point in its post-conflict recovery. The Syrian aviation sector has suffered immense damage due to war, sanctions, and international isolation. The arrival of a foreign airline like flydubai brings hope for renewed investment, job creation, and tourism.
While Damascus International Airport has been operating sporadically for domestic and limited international flights, the return of a major regional carrier helps raise its profile and may encourage others to follow suit. It’s likely that other Gulf carriers—particularly from Bahrain or Oman—will assess the market opportunity created by flydubai’s entry.
Additionally, the flydubai route could serve as a foundation for future bilateral cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and reconstruction projects. Aviation, often a precursor to deeper economic ties, might just be the beginning.
Safety and Operational Considerations
Despite the optimism, safety and operational stability remain key concerns. Syria’s airspace has reopened, but challenges persist. Ongoing tensions in certain regions, along with the risk of airspace violations and security incidents, mean that airlines and travelers must remain vigilant.
flydubai’s decision to resume service likely followed comprehensive safety assessments, regulatory approvals, and logistical planning to ensure compliance with international aviation standards. This also reflects Syria’s efforts to reassure the global aviation community about the viability of its airspace.
Economic and Cultural Reconnection
The Damascus-Dubai route is more than a travel corridor—it is a bridge for cultural and economic reconnection. Syrian expatriates in the UAE represent a large and dynamic community. For many, the flight offers a long-awaited chance to return home or visit loved ones. On the business front, it opens doors for entrepreneurs and companies looking to invest in Syria’s rebuilding phase.
Moreover, Syria’s rich historical and cultural heritage has always held tourism potential. Once peace and infrastructure improve further, the return of airlines could help revive the tourism sector, drawing visitors to its ancient cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Mediterranean coastline.
Looking Ahead
flydubai’s resumption of flights to Damascus is a powerful reminder that even in regions marred by years of conflict, the skies can reopen. It signals hope, resilience, and a shared desire for regional healing.
As the first UAE carrier to touch down in Damascus post-conflict, flydubai has set a precedent. It is now up to other airlines and stakeholders in the Middle East to determine whether this bold step will spark a wider reopening of the Syrian aviation market—and perhaps, a new chapter in regional cooperation.
For now, one thing is certain: the skies over Damascus are open again, and that alone is a reason for hope
