In a landmark move that signals both economic optimism and regional reconnection, Emirates has officially resumed operations to Damascus International Airport, marking its return as the first foreign airline to re-establish full pre-conflict services in Syria. The carrier’s inaugural return flight, EK913, touched down on July 16, 2025, with 286 passengers aboard a Boeing 777-200LR, greeted by a symbolic water cannon salute and a grand welcoming ceremony attended by UAE and Syrian dignitaries.
The resumption of services not only reopens a vital international gateway to the historic Syrian capital but also expands Emirates’ already vast network across six continents. As of August 2, Emirates will operate four weekly flights to Damascus, with a further upgrade to daily service starting October 26, 2025.
A Ceremonial Welcome Reflecting Diplomatic Significance
The celebratory arrival at Damascus International Airport featured a high-level delegation led by H.E. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Minister of State for Higher Education and Advanced Skills and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency. Senior Emirates officials—including Acting CEO and COO Adel Al Redha and Divisional Senior Vice President Sheikh Majid Al Mualla—accompanied the flight, reflecting the political and economic weight behind the airline’s return.
The Syrian welcoming committee included UAE Ambassador to Syria H.E. Hasan Ahmed Al-Shehhi, along with aviation and airport authorities, including Anis Fallouh, Director of Damascus International Airport, and Amjad Nakhal from Syria’s General Authority of Civil Aviation.
Increasing Frequency to Meet Growing Demand
The Dubai-Damascus route now operates three times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays, providing streamlined access for Syrian expatriates, international travelers, and pilgrims. By August, an additional Saturday flight will increase service to four weekly flights, culminating in daily operations by late October.
This expansion is in direct response to rising demand for air travel to Syria and is expected to support growing tourism interest in Damascus—one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities known for its cultural heritage, UNESCO sites, and historic bazaars.
Strategic Connectivity Through Emirates and flydubai Network
In addition to restoring direct access to Damascus, the airline is strengthening regional air connectivity through its ongoing codeshare partnership with flydubai. Passengers will benefit from a streamlined booking process, baggage transfers, and seamless connections through Dubai to over 168 destinations in Africa, Asia, Europe, Australasia, and the Americas.
This partnership is especially beneficial for travelers flying from long-haul destinations such as New York, with convenient one-stop connections through Dubai. Emirates’ upcoming resumption of its Newark–Singapore route on May 10 further enhances this global reach.
Aircraft Experience: Emirates Boeing 777-200LR
Emirates is deploying its fuel-efficient Boeing 777-200LR on the Damascus route. The aircraft features 38 lie-flat seats in Business Class in a 2-2-2 configuration and 264 ergonomically designed seats in Economy Class, offering generous legroom and superior onboard comfort.
Dining onboard highlights regional flavors, with menus including Emirates’ signature Syrian mezze made from premium ingredients such as red pepper paste, tahini, and locally sourced olive oil, providing travelers with a taste of Syria even before they land.
Award-Winning Entertainment and Arabic Content
Onboard, passengers can enjoy Emirates’ award-winning ice entertainment system, which features over 6,500 channels. Arabic travelers are especially well-catered for, with nearly 650 Arabic-language channels, including more than 400 Arabic films, 100+ TV programs, and local series like Nafas, Tout Al Aswad, and Bi Al Dam. With 51 new Arabic film releases currently available, Emirates ensures passengers have access to the latest in regional entertainment.
A Major Step Toward Regional Reconnection and Economic Recovery
Emirates’ return to Damascus is more than an airline milestone—it marks a turning point in Syria’s broader reentry into the global travel ecosystem. As the UAE continues to lead regional efforts toward economic cooperation and reconstruction, this air route plays a critical role in enhancing people-to-people ties, cultural exchange, and business opportunities.
The renewed service is also expected to contribute to Syria’s tourism recovery. According to the Syrian Ministry of Tourism, the country welcomed over 1.2 million visitors in 2024, with further growth expected in 2025 as more airlines resume operations and tourism infrastructure is rebuilt.
Looking Ahead
Emirates’ Damascus relaunch demonstrates the airline’s confidence in Syria’s potential as a travel and transit hub. The carrier’s continued expansion across the Middle East and strategic investment in underserved markets reinforce its commitment to providing global travelers with more choices, comfort, and cultural experiences.
With daily service from October, travelers from Europe, Asia, North America, and beyond will find Damascus not only accessible but also a key part of the region’s renaissance—offering rich history, warm hospitality, and a new chapter in Middle East tourism.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
