Air Arabia Abu Dhabi has launched new direct flights to Assiut in Egypt, boosting travel options between the UAE and Egypt. The service begins on November 4, 2025, with two weekly flights, marking a key expansion for the low-cost carrier in the region.
This move adds Assiut as the third Egyptian destination from Abu Dhabi, joining Cairo and Alexandria. It aims to offer affordable and convenient travel for passengers, strengthening ties between the two countries amid growing demand for budget air routes.
Flight Details and Schedule
Travelers can now fly non-stop from Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi to Assiut International Airport. The flights operate every Tuesday and Friday, providing a reliable schedule for business and leisure trips.
This addition comes at a time when air travel between the UAE and Egypt is on the rise. Recent data shows passenger numbers between the two nations increased by over 15 percent in the first half of 2025, driven by tourism and family visits.
The airline focuses on low fares to attract more flyers. Early bookings suggest prices start around 200 AED for one-way tickets, making it accessible for many.
To help plan your trip, here is a simple table of the flight schedule:
| Day | Departure from Abu Dhabi | Arrival in Assiut | Return Departure from Assiut | Return Arrival in Abu Dhabi |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM | 12:30 PM | 1:30 PM | 4:00 PM |
| Friday | 2:00 PM | 4:30 PM | 5:30 PM | 8:00 PM |
Note that times are approximate and subject to change based on operational needs.
Why This Route Matters
Assiut, located in Upper Egypt, opens doors to a region rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore ancient sites like the tombs of Meir or the vibrant local markets, which draw tourists year-round.
For UAE residents, especially the large Egyptian community, this route simplifies family reunions and business travel. It reduces the need for connecting flights through Cairo, saving time and money.
Economically, the new service supports trade links. Egypt and the UAE have seen bilateral trade grow to over 10 billion USD in 2024, with aviation playing a vital role in logistics and people movement.
This launch aligns with broader trends in the Middle East aviation sector. Low-cost carriers like Air Arabia are expanding rapidly to meet post-pandemic travel demand, with passenger traffic in the region projected to hit 500 million by 2026.
Statements from Key Figures
Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, expressed excitement about the new route. He highlighted how it extends the airline’s reach into Upper Egypt and offers more affordable options for travelers.
Local tourism officials in Assiut welcome the flights. They expect an influx of visitors from the Gulf, which could boost the local economy through increased hotel bookings and guided tours.
Industry experts note that this expansion reflects Air Arabia’s strategy to grow its network. The carrier has added over 20 new routes in the past year, focusing on underserved markets.
Broader Impact on UAE-Egypt Ties
The new flights strengthen overall connectivity between the UAE and Egypt. With existing services to Cairo and Alexandria, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi now covers key areas across the country.
This development follows other recent aviation news in the region. For instance, Wizz Air announced resumed flights from Sofia to Abu Dhabi starting November 17, 2025, adding to the competitive landscape.
Passengers benefit from more choices, which often lead to better deals. Here are some tips for booking:
- Check for promotional fares early, as they sell out quickly.
- Consider travel insurance for international trips.
- Look into visa requirements, as UAE residents may qualify for easier entry to Egypt.
- Combine flights with hotel packages for savings.
On a larger scale, such expansions contribute to sustainable tourism. Airlines are adopting fuel-efficient planes, reducing carbon footprints while meeting travel needs.
Future Outlook for Air Travel
Looking ahead, Air Arabia plans further growth. Insiders suggest more routes to Africa and Asia could be announced by early 2026, building on this success.
This fits into the UAE’s vision to become a global aviation hub. Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport handled over 25 million passengers in 2024, with expectations to exceed 30 million this year.
For Egypt, enhanced air links support its tourism recovery. The country welcomed over 15 million visitors in 2024, with goals to reach 20 million by 2026.
Experts predict low-cost carriers will dominate short-haul routes in the Middle East, making travel more inclusive.
What do you think about this new route? Share your thoughts in the comments below and spread the word to fellow travelers.
