Abu Dhabi Sees Surge in Israeli Bookings After Flydubai Halts Flights

Abu Dhabi is experiencing a significant increase in bookings from Israeli travelers following the suspension of Flydubai flights to Israel. Etihad Airways has reported a rise in reservations of over 60% as Israelis seek alternative routes to the East. This shift comes after Flydubai halted its services due to an attempted hijacking incident involving one of its aircraft. Previously, Istanbul served as a primary transit point for Israelis heading to Eastern countries, but the suspension of flights between Israel and Turkey due to the war led Dubai to emerge as a major hub. During the conflict, Flydubai maintained its operations to Israel, further solidifying Dubai's position as a preferred transit point, especially for travelers heading to Asia. The current suspension of Flydubai flights, expected to last until the end of the month, has left many passengers with limited options, with Abu Dhabi, about an hour's drive from Dubai, emerging as a potential alternative. Etihad Airways currently operates six daily flights between Tel Aviv and Abu Dhabi, totaling 42 flights weekly. Starting November 9, the airline plans to increase capacity on this route by using a larger aircraft for one of its daily flights. The airline noted that the cancellation of flights to Dubai has boosted demand for travel via Abu Dhabi, though flight occupancy was already high, leading to limited seat availability. Israeli travel companies confirm this trend. Nir Mazor, Vice President of Kesher Tiyulim, stated that the suspension of flights to Dubai has prompted more Israelis to consider Abu Dhabi as a tourist destination or a transit point to the Far East, noting that Abu Dhabi offers its own unique attractions. Tamar Garzon, General Manager of Gulliver, reported that bookings via Abu Dhabi have increased by over 60% since the Flydubai incident. However, Abu Dhabi's long-term potential as a major transit hub depends on seat availability, flight frequency, destination diversity, and pricing. Aviation and tourism expert Uzi Freund Weinstein pointed out that while Etihad's network is similar to Emirates', its fleet is considerably smaller, impacting capacity and pricing. He also noted that Emirates serves destinations not covered by Etihad. To solidify Abu Dhabi's position, an increase in flights from Israel, convenient connections, short layovers, and competitive prices are necessary. Regarding the potential return of Flydubai flights, Weinstein suggested that Emirates might resume direct flights to Israel, partially or fully replacing Flydubai. He did not rule out the possibility of travelers returning to Flydubai if it offers lower prices and competitor seats remain scarce. In parallel with the increased flight demand, Etihad Airways offers a stopover program allowing travelers to stay up to two free nights in participating Abu Dhabi hotels. The central question remains whether Abu Dhabi will maintain its enhanced role as a transit hub after Dubai resumes its flights, or if Israeli travelers will revert to using Dubai as their primary gateway to the East.