Emirates has exciting news for travelers as they plan to resume flights to Damascus, Syria starting July 16, 2025, pending regulatory approval. This decision comes after a thorough evaluation process in collaboration with the GCAA, the UAE regulatory authority, following the suspension of operations to Syria in 2012.

Pilotcenter.net News reports that initially, Emirates will operate three weekly flights departing from Dubai on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays, with intentions to increase to four flights a week from August 2, 2025, by adding a Saturday service. The goal is to eventually offer daily flights to Damascus starting October 26, 2025, contingent upon approval.

The airline's services to Damascus, covering a distance of 1,266 miles (2,025km), will be facilitated by a Boeing 777-200LR aircraft with 302 seats, a model currently possessed in a quantity of ten by the carrier. Travelers can anticipate flight EK913 departing Dubai at noon and landing at Damascus International Airport (DAM) at 14:10 local time. The return journey, EK914, will depart Damascus at 16:30 and arrive back in Dubai at 20:30 local time on the same day.

Emirates expressed enthusiasm about the new routes, highlighting the opportunities it will unlock for travelers to connect with its extensive network of almost 150 destinations. The airline also emphasized its commitment to supporting Syria's rebuilding efforts and attracting foreign investment in sectors like energy, construction, and agriculture.

In a statement by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, he noted, "Emirates is pleased to restart operations to Damascus and support Syria’s road ahead by providing better choice and connectivity…". With the resumption of flights, there is optimism for the Syrian diaspora across different regions to reconnect with their homeland and contribute to ongoing development initiatives.

Emirates recognizes the importance of the UAE-Syria trade relationship, which saw a 23% increase to reach US$680 million in 2024. The airline values the significant contributions of the UAE's Syrian community to the country's flourishing economy and diverse cultural landscape.

The Boeing 777-200LR flights to and from Damascus will consist of 38 business class seats and 264 economy class seats, with a business class cabin featuring a comfortable 2-2-2 configuration. Prior to the cessation of operations in 2012, Emirates had been serving Damascus since 1988, transporting over 2.1 million passengers to and from Syria.

With these new developments, Emirates aims to enhance connectivity, support economic growth, and foster stronger ties between the UAE and Syria. The resumption of flights to Damascus marks a positive step towards re-establishing essential air travel links and facilitating trade and cultural exchange between the two nations.