Wizz Air to close Abu Dhabi operations after five years

Wizz Air has said it will cease all operations from its Abu Dhabi base from 1 September, ending a five-year run in the UAE. 

 

The decision was made due to “operational challenges” and geopolitical developments in the Middle East. 

 

The move will end flights on 29 routes spanning the Middle East, Central Asia, Africa and Europe, cutting direct connections from Abu Dhabi to cities such as Athens, Rome and Alexandria. 

 

Passengers holding tickets beyond 31 August will be contacted regarding refunds or alternative arrangements, while those who booked through third-party providers are advised to contact their agents.

 

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Wizz Air Abu Dhabi was launched in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company in 2021, during the pandemic, but the UAE venture has long been experiencing problems with its Pratt & Whitney engines. The turbofans have lower service life in hot and harsh environments, requiring frequent maintenance.

 

The situation was complicated by escalating regional tensions and recent airspace closures that severely disrupted schedules and dampened demand. 

 

In a statement, Wizz Air CEO József Váradi said: “The operating environment has changed significantly. Supply chain constraints, geopolitical instability and limited market access have made it increasingly difficult to sustain our original ambitions.” 

 

The company emphasised that the move is part of a strategic realignment, with resources to be redirected toward strengthening Wizz Air’s position in Central and Eastern Europe as well as select Western European markets, which remains profitable. 

 

Airlines in the Middle East saw a 6.2% increase in passenger demand in May 2025 compared to the previous year, according to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This follows IATA’s prediction in early June that airlines in the Middle East would generate the highest net profit per passenger of all regions in 2025, with US$27.20, more than three times the global average.

 

For more information, visit www.wizzair.com