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Emirates returns to Damascus after 13 years: What travellers can expect as flights resume in July

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3 weeks ago

June 3, 2025

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After a 13-year pause, Emirates is set to reconnect Dubai with Damascus, resuming flights to one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Starting July 16, UAE residents and international flyers will be able to explore the Syrian capital, considered one of the Middle East’s most storied capitals.

Why It Matters

Once a vibrant stop on ancient trade routes, Damascus has long drawn travellers with its rich culture, historic souks, and deep-rooted heritage. The return of regular flights reconnects Syria with the region and the world.

Emirates will initially operate three weekly flights to Damascus on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays, adding a Saturday flight from August 2, and transitioning to daily flights from October 26. Whether you’re travelling to visit family, rediscover your heritage, or explore the city’s ancient sites, more options are now on the table.

A Homecoming for Many

The relaunch is especially significant for members of the Syrian diaspora living across the GCC, Europe, and the Americas. With easier access to Damascus, families can now reunite more easily, and travellers can reconnect with the history, food, and warmth of home.

“We’re proud to support Syria’s road ahead by restoring connectivity, opening trade routes, and offering travellers a way to return, rebuild, and reconnect,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group.

More Options with Flydubai

Travellers can also benefit from Emirates’ codeshare with flydubai, offering even more flexibility when booking trips to and from Damascus.

Whether you’re longing to wander through the Old City, taste Syria’s legendary cuisine, or experience the architectural grandeur of Umayyad mosques and hidden courtyards, this long-awaited reconnection offers a chance to rediscover a city rich in stories.

Related Topics:damascus Emirates Emirates Airline flights Syria Tourism Travel UAE-syriaflights

Michael Gomes

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

News

Abu Dhabi streets come alive with lights to celebrate Hijri New Year

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4 hours ago

June 25, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Abu Dhabi is welcoming the Hijri year 1447 in spectacular style, with illuminated decorations and vibrant art installations now adorning the city’s Corniche and bridges.

The initiative, led by the Department of Municipalities and Transport through Abu Dhabi City Municipality, is designed to reflect the spiritual essence and cultural beauty of the Islamic New Year, while adding to the emirate’s urban charm.

A Blend of Faith, Heritage and Art

The glowing displays feature intricate designs inspired by Islamic architecture, nature, and Emirati heritage, with the phrase “Hijri Year 1447” etched across many pieces. Using a stunning mix of golden yellow, white, pistachio, and sky blue hues, the decorations bring a festive and spiritual energy to the cityscape.

At the Abu Dhabi Corniche, visitors will find illuminated curtains suspended between lampposts, blending Eid Al Adha and Hijri New Year motifs in a celebration of light, colour, and joy.

Designed with Safety & Sustainability in Mind

All installations use energy-efficient LED lights and weather-resistant materials to ensure both durability and safety. Each piece has been strategically placed to match the layout of streets and walkways, making the city’s celebration beautiful and secure for pedestrians and drivers alike.

So whether you’re strolling the Corniche or driving through the city, take a moment to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s glowing tribute to the start of the Islamic calendar year, a celebration of faith, tradition, and forward-looking beauty.

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Dubai announces free parking and public transport for Hijri New Year holiday

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4 hours ago

June 25, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Heads up, Dubai residents. In celebration of the Hijri New Year, all public parking in Dubai will be free on Friday, June 27, except for multi-level parking terminals. Regular parking fees will resume on Saturday, June 28, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced.

Public Transport Hours – Friday, June 27

Dubai Metro: 5am (June 27) to 1am (June 28)
Dubai Tram: 6am (June 27) to 1am (June 28)

RTA Service Centres

Closed: All RTA Customer Happiness Centres and service provider centres
Open: Smart Customer Happiness Centres in Umm Ramool, Deira, Al Barsha, and RTA Head Office (available 24/7)

Vehicle Testing

No technical testing on Friday, services resume Saturday, June 28.

For the latest updates on bus and marine transport schedules, commuters are encouraged to check the RTA or S’hail app.

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UAE–Pakistan Travel: New agreement allows visa-free travel for select citizens

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5 hours ago

June 25, 2025

Michael Gomes

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In a move set to deepen long-standing ties, the UAE and Pakistan have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for mutual visa exemption, allowing diplomatic and official passport holders of both countries to travel without entry visas. The agreement is expected to streamline travel and strengthen people-to-people connections between the two nations.

The visa exemption MoU was signed during the 12th session of the UAE–Pakistan Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), held in Abu Dhabi, and attended by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Agreements Beyond Visas

The high-level meeting saw the signing of several key MoUs, including:

A joint task force to promote UAE investments in Pakistan’s strategic sectors
An MoU on cooperation in artificial intelligence and the digital economy

These were signed by Mohamed Hassan Al Suwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, and senior Pakistani officials, including Tariq Bajwa, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, and Zarar Hashim Khan, Federal Secretary at Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications.

A Trusted and Historic Partnership

The UAE and Pakistan reviewed cooperation across trade, investment, infrastructure, energy, and technology during the session.

Speaking at the event, Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, who led the UAE delegation, described Pakistan as a long-standing and trusted partner, highlighting diplomatic ties dating back to 1971.

“This partnership is built on mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision for the future,” Al Sayegh said, noting that non-oil trade exceeded $8.6 billion in 2024.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing bilateral relations and ensuring prosperity, stability, and development for future generations.