Wizz Air to Exit Abu Dhabi Base by September 2025

Wizz Air has announced it will cease operations at its Abu Dhabi base from September 1, 2025, marking the end of a five-year presence in the UAE capital. The decision, disclosed on July 14 via the airline’s digital channels, comes amid mounting operational, geopolitical, and regulatory challenges that have made the venture unsustainable, according to the company.

In its official statement, the Budapest-based low-cost carrier cited three primary reasons for the closure. The first is ongoing engine reliability issues, exacerbated by the region’s extreme heat, which have negatively impacted operational performance. The second and third concerns are external: increased geopolitical instability and military conflicts in the surrounding region, which have triggered repeated airspace closures, and regulatory hurdles that Wizz Air claims have limited its ability to grow in key markets.

Wizz Air launched its Abu Dhabi operations in 2020 through a joint venture with Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company (ADQ), a government-owned entity that holds a 51% stake in the business. The airline used Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) as a hub to serve destinations across the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of Europe.

According to the ch-aviation database, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi maintained a fleet of 10 Airbus A321 aircraft, including two A321neo variants, tailored for medium-haul low-cost operations in the region. Despite initial growth and route expansion, the carrier has opted to exit the joint venture and refocus its resources on its core European markets.

As part of its wind-down plan, Wizz Air is offering affected passengers travel alternatives or rebooking options. Customers who booked directly with the airline are being contacted, while those who booked through third-party platforms are advised to reach out to their travel providers for assistance.

The withdrawal reflects the growing difficulty airlines face when operating in geopolitically volatile regions. Wizz Air’s departure from Abu Dhabi is a strategic pivot aimed at consolidating its network strength in more stable and profitable markets across Europe.

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