Abu Dhabi in the spotlight: Israeli airlines weigh an alternative to Dubai

In depth

Following the freeze on flights to Dubai, Israeli airlines El Al, Israir and Arkia are considering launching a route to Abu Dhabi. Security officials have approved Israeli airlines flying to the destination. Passengers planning to travel to the Emirates continue to look for ways to reach Dubai, although the airlines have not yet resumed flights there.

Demand for Abu Dhabi has risen after Etihad became the main player on the route east, and dozens of flights now fill up each week. Some in the aviation industry are not rushing to jump on the destination, saying the alternative is not strategic for them and is not of the same value as Dubai.

An official announcement on the launch of the Abu Dhabi route has not yet been received by the airlines. Meanwhile, a foreign carrier continues to operate direct flights to the destination, and Israir is voicing its criticism of flydubai. Passengers wishing to reach Dubai have other options to continue from the nearby airport, including a bus, taxi or private driver to the hotel door.