Latest news with #AliSalimAlMidfa
Gulf Today
4 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Air Arabia flights to Damascus take off
Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa's first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC) operator, today celebrated the resumption of its non-stop service between Sharjah and Damascus. The departure ceremony at Sharjah International Airport this morning was attended by Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, Air Arabia Group Chief Executive Officer Adel Al Ali, and Ziad Yahya Zaher Edin, Chargé d'Affaires of the Consulate General of the Syrian Arab Republic in the UAE. Upon arrival at Damascus International Airport, the flight was welcomed with a special ceremony attended by the airport senior management and other distinguished guests. The launch marks the resumption of Air Arabia's operations to the Syrian capital, reinforcing the airline's commitment to expanding regional connectivity and providing customers with affordable and convenient air travel options. The route operates with double daily non-stop flights, offering passengers more flexibility and seamless travel between the UAE and Syria. WAM
Al Bawaba
4 days ago
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Sharjah Airport and Air Arabia Celebrate the Resumption of Direct Flights to Damascus
As part of its ongoing commitment to expanding its network and strengthening air connectivity with brotherly nations, Sharjah Airport has announced the resumption of direct flights to the Syrian capital, Damascus, operated by Air Arabia. The route will operate twice daily between Sharjah Airport and Damascus International Airport, marking the return of this vital connection after a years-long inaugural flight was launched in a welcoming ceremony attended by His Excellency Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA); Dr. Ziad Yahya Zahreddine, Consul General of the Syrian Arab Republic in the UAE; H.E. Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia; along with a number of officials and directors from SAA, representatives from airport-based entities, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, and the Sharjah Department of Government Air Connectivity and Facilitating Travel for All Passenger SegmentsH.E. Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, stated that the resumption of direct flights between Sharjah and Damascus marks a significant milestone in the airport's strategic expansion journey. It underscores the SAA's steadfast commitment to enhancing air connectivity and facilitating travel for various segments of passengers.'This step reflects our ongoing efforts to position Sharjah Airport as a leading travel gateway, while contributing to the growth of economic and tourism exchanges between the UAE and Syria,' he added, 'At Sharjah Airport Authority, we continue to implement our comprehensive vision focused on improving the quality of services offered to passengers. Backed by advanced infrastructure and a skilled workforce, we aim to ensure a seamless and safe travel experience. Through our continued collaboration with strategic partners, we are consistently working to attract new destinations and provide an operational environment that adheres to the highest international standards — reinforcing Sharjah's growing reputation as a leading regional and international aviation hub.'Flexible and Comfortable Travel Options to Support Passenger MobilityThis decision comes in response to the increasing demand for travel between the UAE and Syria and highlights Sharjah Airport's pivotal role in fostering social and economic ties between the two countries. The resumption of this route offers passengers greater flexibility and comfort, facilitating easier mobility and enabling them to stay connected with their families and loved the Latest Technological Solutions to Ensure Optimal Operational Efficiency Sharjah Airport Authority continues to strengthen its efforts to attract more regional and international airlines and expand its network of strategic partnerships to launch new routes in line with the rapid growth in travel demand. These efforts are supported by the adoption of cutting-edge technological solutions that ensure the highest levels of operational efficiency, along with the development of innovative services aimed at enhancing the overall experience for passengers and stakeholders.
Arabian Post
4 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
Air Arabia Reinitiates Sharjah–Damascus Flights
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Air Arabia has recommenced double daily non‑stop flights between Sharjah and Damascus from 10 July 2025, marking a pivotal renewal of air connectivity between the UAE and Syria. The low‑cost carrier's decision, following a suspension since 2012, responds to rising demand and broader regional diplomatic easing. The carrier's reinstated schedule includes two early departures from Sharjah at 04:15 and 10:45, landing in Damascus at 06:30 and 13:00, respectively. Return services depart Damascus at 07:30 and 14:00, arriving in Sharjah at approximately 11:40 and 18:10 local time. Utilising Airbus A320s and A321s, Air Arabia's fleet will provide in‑flight entertainment via 'SkyTime', on‑board dining through 'SkyCafe', and loyalty benefits under its 'Air Rewards' programme. ADVERTISEMENT During a launch ceremony at Sharjah International Airport, attendees included Adel Al Ali, Group CEO of Air Arabia, and Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, indicating the route's strategic significance. A reception at Damascus International Airport featured UAE Ambassador Hasan Ahmed Mohammed Sulaiman Alshehhi and Syria's Chargé d'Affaires Ziad Yahya Zaher Edin. CEO Al Ali emphasised the route's importance in serving the substantial Syrian diaspora in the UAE, estimated at over 350,000 individuals, and facilitating enhanced travel for business, tourism, and family visits. He remarked, 'This route holds particular significance in serving the Syrian diaspora in the region and meeting the growing travel demand between the UAE and Syria.' The airline anticipates this service will bolster trade ties, with bilateral trade having reached US $680 million in 2024—a 23 percent increase over 2023. Air Arabia's restoring of direct flights aligns with a wider trend of regional airlines re‑engaging Syria. Emirates is scheduled to recommence services to Damascus from 16 July, expanding to daily flights by October. Flydubai resumed operations on 26 June. Additionally, national carrier Syrian Air has restarted several regional services since January, while Qatar Airways reinstated a Doha‑Damascus route in early January. Turkish budget airline Anadolu Jet launched flights from Istanbul and Ankara in April. Damascus International Airport itself underwent closure during an opposition offensive in December 2024, later reopening with limited commercial flights. Full international traffic resumed in January 2025, with renovation support from Turkey in February. The renewal of these services carries deeper geopolitical significance, reflecting a subtle shift in diplomatic engagement with Syria. In April, the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority formally lifted suspensions on flights to Syria, and UAE‑Syrian ministerial talks have since addressed aviation, banking, and consular matters. Travel agents and industry analysts have interpreted the move as a calculated expansion of Air Arabia's network, offering cost‑conscious alternatives to Gulf‑Europe‑Syria itineraries, especially for the UK and Europe‑based Syrian diaspora. The airline's fare structure and twice‑daily service are expected to attract both long‑standing diaspora links and emerging trade flows. Independent aviation analysts note that Air Arabia's streamlined operations, lean cost base, and digital platform—covering bookings via website, app, call centre, and travel agencies—are key competitive advantages. The company now serves more than 90 global destinations, including recent additions such as Sochi, Prague, and expansion within Russia and Europe. Despite the optimism, security concerns remain. Damascus Airport was only partially reopened in January, and while the civil aviation authority has announced upgrades, full operational stability depends on infrastructure restoration and geopolitical calm. Some observers caution that air travel to Syria may still face intermittent regulatory or safety challenges, advising prospective travellers to monitor advisories and airlines' updates closely. Nevertheless, the resumption of the Sharjah–Damascus route represents a turning point for mobility in the region. By restoring a decade‑long link, Air Arabia reinforces its position as a catalyst for regional integration and economic exchange, while filling a transport gap for displaced communities and traders across the Gulf.
Gulf Insider
5 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Air Arabia Resumes Sharjah–Damascus Flights With Double Daily Service
Air Arabia has officially resumed its direct flights between Sharjah and Damascus, marking a significant step in re-establishing regional air connectivity. The low-cost carrier will now operate double daily non-stop flights between the two cities, offering enhanced flexibility for both leisure and business travellers. A ceremonial send-off was held at Sharjah International Airport earlier today, attended by Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Airport Authority, Adel Al Ali, CEO of Air Arabia Group, and Ziad Yahya Zaher Edin, Chargé d'Affaires of the Consulate General of Syria in the UAE. Upon arrival in Damascus, the inaugural flight was received with a welcome ceremony at Damascus International Airport, where UAE Ambassador to Syria, H.E. Hasan Ahmed Mohammed Sulaiman Alshehhi, and other dignitaries were present. The relaunch of the route is part of Air Arabia's ongoing strategy to expand its network and meet demand for affordable, reliable travel options across the Middle East. The airline said the resumption reflects its commitment to 'enhancing regional connectivity while offering value-driven services.' Travellers can now book the UAE–Syria flights via Air Arabia's website, app, call centre, or travel agents. Air Arabia operates a modern fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, and offers a range of onboard services including: 'SkyTime', its free in-flight streaming platform 'SkyCafe', its à la carte menu of snacks and meals 'Air Rewards', its loyalty programme catering to frequent flyers With Damascus rejoining its destination list, Air Arabia is further reinforcing its position as the leading low-cost carrier in the MENA region, supporting greater people-to-people and economic exchange between the UAE and Syria.
Sharjah 24
20-06-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SAA holds ceremony to honour 'Matari' Award winners, partners
The annual ceremony included a special recognition of outstanding employees who won the third edition of the Sharjah Airport for Organizational Excellence Award 'Matari', Strategic partners and media representatives were also honored in appreciation of their contributions and initiatives that have been instrumental in advancing the airport's journey toward leadership and development. 'My Journey at Sharjah Airport' The annual ceremony featured a visual presentation highlighting major milestones and achievements—ranging from network expansion and rising passenger volumes to the launch of strategic development projects. The presentation also included a video chronicling the journey of the 'Matari' award as a tribute to the extraordinary efforts of the SAA's employees. A theatrical performance titled 'My Journey at Sharjah Airport' was also staged, showcasing the airport's latest smart services and innovations in partnership with stakeholders—services that continue to enhance the travel experience and keep pace with rapid transformations in the aviation sector. Remarkable Progress Fueled by Visionary Leadership In his address, His Excellency Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, emphasised that the remarkable progress and rapid growth witnessed at Sharjah Airport would not have been possible without the directives of the wise leadership, which has long recognized the aviation sector as a strategic driver of development. He extended his deep appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, whose vision and guidance have been the foundation of every achievement to date. He added: 'We reaffirm our commitment to continuing our comprehensive development efforts, including the Passenger Terminal Expansion Project, which will mark a quantum leap in the travel experience by integrating innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability. This will enhance the airport's capacity to 25 million passengers annually by the end of 2027—further solidifying its position as a fully integrated global aviation hub.' His Excellency also commended the efforts of the SAA's team, strategic partners, and media representatives, who continue to be true partners in Sharjah Airport's journey of excellence. He noted that honoring the outstanding employees in the third edition of the Sharjah Airport for Organizational Excellence Award 'Matari' reaffirms the SAA's belief that investing in human capital is the foundation of sustainable success and the main engine for improving operations and elevating service standards. He also announced the introduction of two new award categories this year, aimed at recognizing the vital role of strategic partners and airport-based entities in delivering an exceptional travel experience. A Model of Institutional Leadership and Strategic Planning In his opening remarks, His Excellency Sheikh Faisal Bin Saoud Al Qassimi, Director of Sharjah Airport Authority, stated: 'Last year was rich in strategic accomplishments that further established Sharjah Airport as an integrated hub for air transport and logistics. These achievements would not have been possible without the collective efforts of our teams, strategic partners, and media allies, alongside the shared vision that guides us toward excellence.' He continued: 'By continuing to invest in infrastructure, expanding our destination network, and empowering our teams through initiatives such as the 'Matari' Award, we are committed to positioning Sharjah Airport as a model of institutional leadership, strategic planning, and service quality. We place employee empowerment at the heart of our priorities, cultivating a motivating work environment that unlocks potential, celebrates excellence, and fosters institutional loyalty. We are not merely planning for the future—we are building it together with our national talents, values, and trust-based partnerships.' Honouring the Winners of the 3rd Edition of the 'Matari' Award One of the ceremony's highlights was the honoring of the winners of the third edition of the Sharjah Airport for Organizational Excellence Award 'Matari' —one of the SAA's leading initiatives to foster a culture of excellence, encourage innovation, and spotlight the impactful contributions of departments and individuals in improving operations and executing strategic initiatives. The Award reflects the SAA's commitment to empowering employees and advancing institutional performance in line with global best practices. The award is divided into two main tracks: the Institutional Categories, which include Outstanding Department, Outstanding Initiative, and Outstanding Shift; and the Individual Categories, which recognize excellence across various roles such as Outstanding New Employee, Innovative Employee, Supervisory Employee, Customer Service Employee, Specialist Employee, Administrative Employee, Field Employee, and Excellence in Passenger Experience category that highlights exceptional contributions to enhancing the passenger journey. The event concluded in a warm and appreciative atmosphere, with a formal dinner and entertainment program that added an engaging and interactive element to the gathering—reflecting the spirit of collaboration and harmony that defines Sharjah Airport Authority's work culture.
