Air Arabia Expands Russian Network for Summer 2025

Air Arabia is set to enhance its Russian network in summer 2025, as seat capacity between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Russia continues to grow. The low-cost carrier (LCC) will launch new flights connecting Sharjah and Sochi starting June 27, 2025, operating three times per week with Airbus A320 aircraft. This addition will make Sochi the sixth Russian city linked to Sharjah by Air Arabia, joining Kazan, Moscow Domodedovo, Samara, Ufa, and Yekaterinburg.

In addition to the Sharjah-Sochi route, Air Arabia operates nonstop services from Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi to Moscow Domodedovo. The airline also plans to introduce a new route between Abu Dhabi and Yekaterinburg on December 27, with twice-weekly flights.

Adel Al Ali, Group CEO of Air Arabia, highlighted the significance of the expansion, stating that it strengthens the bond between the UAE and Russia while fostering growth in tourism and trade.

This expansion comes as UAE airlines continue their services to Russia despite many international carriers suspending operations due to Western sanctions following the conflict in Ukraine. The UAE has maintained a neutral stance on the conflict, advocating for diplomacy while preserving air connectivity with Russia.

Since the onset of the war, the UAE has become Russia’s largest international market by capacity, surpassing previous leaders. Data from OAG Schedules Analyser reveals a record 567,000 two-way seats available between the UAE and Russia in December 2024, a 99% increase from December 2021.

Air Arabia has demonstrated remarkable growth in capacity, offering 106,500 two-way seats in December 2024, a 1,305% surge from December 2021. Other UAE carriers, including flydubai, Etihad Airways, and Emirates, have also significantly increased capacity on UAE-Russia routes. Flydubai alone added nearly 100,000 seats compared to pre-pandemic levels.

While most UAE airlines have capitalized on the growing demand, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi remains absent from the Russian market. The ULCC initially planned to resume Moscow flights in October 2022 but canceled the decision amid criticism.

Air Arabia’s strategic expansion underscores its commitment to connecting major markets while supporting bilateral ties and boosting economic exchange between the UAE and Russia.

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