flydubai strengthens presence in Europe with four new destinations
flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, continues to grow its network with the launch of flights to four new destinations. This includes the start of flights to Chișinău and Iași from September 2025 in addition to Riga and Vilnius from December 2025, expanding the carrier's network in Europe to 35 destinations across 20 countries.This announcement makes flydubai the first UAE carrier to offer direct flights between Dubai and Iași International Airport (IAS) in Romania. The carrier first started operating to Romania in 2012 with the launch of flights to Bucharest.This also marks the carrier's first entry into the Baltic region with a direct service to Riga International Airport (RIX) in Latvia and Vilnius International Airport (VNO) in Lithuania, increasing the number of underserved markets on its network to more than 100 destinations.Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: 'the expansion of our network reflects our unwavering commitment to opening up underserved markets and stimulating free flows of trade and tourism, and we are pleased to see this happen with the launch of our latest destinations in Europe. Today, we have built a diverse network of more than 135 destinations, 75% of which are underserved routes from Dubai. With our new services to Eastern Europe and the Baltic region, we look forward to strengthening the UAE's trade and cultural links and supporting Dubai's position as an international aviation hub.'Commenting on the launch of flights, Jeyhun Efendi, Divisional Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations and E-commerce at flydubai, said: 'Europe remains an important market for flydubai and we are excited to grow our network with the addition of Chișinău, Iași, Riga and Vilnius. These gateways into Eastern Europe and the Baltic region will enable more passengers to enjoy an enhanced travel experience with a convenient service to Dubai and further beyond on the flydubai network as well as the Emirates network through our codeshare partnership.'Situated on the river Bîc, Chișinău is considered one of the greenest cities in Europe. Famous for its historic white limestone buildings, unique architecture and sprawling natural parks, Moldova's capital is the ideal destination for those who want to travel off the beaten path.Iași, Romania's second-largest city, is a vibrant hub with a rich history. One of the oldest cities in the country, Iași features stunning historical sites and charming neighbourhoods.As capital cities of these Baltic states, Riga in Latvia and Vilnius in Lithuania offer visitors the chance to discover their magnificent architecture and UNESCO World Heritage old towns.Flight details for the four destinationsFlights to Chișinău International Airport (RMO) and Iași International Airport (IAS) will operate from Terminal 2, Dubai International (DXB).Return Business Class fares from DXB to RMO start from AED 8,000 and Economy Class Lite fares start from AED 1,600.Return Business Class fares from DXB to IAS start from AED 8,000 and Economy Class Lite fares start from AED 1,600.Flights to Vilnius International Airport (VNO) and Riga International Airport (RIX) will depart from Terminal 3, Dubai International (DXB).Return Business Class fares from DXB to VNO start from AED 7,500 and Economy Class Lite fares start from AED 2,200.
Return Business Class fares from DXB to RIX start from AED 7,500 and Economy Class Lite fares start from AED 1,800.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Al Bawaba
4 hours ago
- Al Bawaba
Nadine Nassib Njeim was robbed in Cannes, $20,000 Hermes bag
ALBAWABA - Renowned Lebanese actress Nadine Nassib Njeim recently took to social media and revealed that a thief stole a $20,000 Hermes bag from her in France, after she attended the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. In a clip circulating on social media, the actress expressed her anger towards the incident and mentioned that the robbery occurred after she checked in her bags at the airport. Additionally, Njeim shared in disbelief that the Emirates Airlines staff are investigating the matter. However, she said that they offered her unfair compensation, which "wouldn't even buy an accessory for the Hermes bag," emphasizing its hefty price. The robbery sparked widespread debate on social media, with many users raising topics about image and overpaying for luxurious items such as her $20,000 Hermes bag. Others referenced China's recent videos about luxurious brands, criticized Njeim, and wrote, "Don't be upset, Nadine. Basically, all the international brands are manufactured in China, and their cost is a thousand times less than what you paid." They added, "I mean, if you paid $50,000, its real price in China is $500. So, you should be upset about your stupidity and the stupidity of others who pay these amounts. Go to China and buy all the brands, and there is a discount there too. Ridiculousness."
Al Bawaba
8 hours ago
- Al Bawaba
ADU Elevates Innovation at the 12th URIC, MENA's Premier Undergraduate Research Competition
Under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Nahyan Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) hosted the 12th edition of the Undergraduate Research and Innovation Competition (URIC) on May 29 at its main campus in Abu Dhabi. For the third consecutive year, the event was sponsored by RTX, demonstrating the company's ongoing commitment to supporting STEM education and fostering innovation in the UAE and beyond. The hybrid annual event brought together exceptional undergraduate talent from around the world to present breakthrough research and creative solutions across 27 academic disciplines, including engineering, business, education, law, and health sciences. This year's competition drew 650 research submissions from approximately 1,300 students representing 105 universities across 14 countries, reaffirming URIC's position as the largest undergraduate research platform in the GCC and MENA region. The event celebrated a diverse range of pioneering projects, including innovations in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Biomedical Engineering and Clinical Sciences, Cybersecurity, Finance, Fintech, E-commerce, and Digital Marketing, Sustainable and Renewable Energy, highlighting the breadth and depth of innovation led by undergraduate students. Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, commented: 'URIC continues to shine a spotlight on the ingenuity and research excellence of our youth. At ADU, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of discovery that empowers students to drive meaningful change. Through initiatives like URIC, we bridge academia with real-world impact - nurturing young innovators who will shape the UAE's future as a knowledge-based, sustainable economy. RTX's sustained partnership with URIC has been invaluable in providing students with the resources and opportunities to translate their innovative ideas into tangible solutions. Their commitment directly contributes to the development of a skilled workforce ready to tackle future challenges.' He added: 'We are immensely proud of all participating students and grateful to the faculty mentors, judges, and strategic partners who help bring this event to life each year.' Professor Montasir Qasymeh, Associate Provost for Research, Innovation, and Academic Development at Abu Dhabi University, said: 'This year's competition has hosted startup companies and witnessed significant interest from stakeholders, including government agencies, the private sector, and venture capital firms. Students were actively involved in various aspects of innovation and entrepreneurship. This is a significant experience for students, helping them mature to a competitive level by gaining hands-on expertise.' Fahad Al Mheiri, Managing Director of Raytheon Emirates, an RTX business, stated: "We are proud to partner with Abu Dhabi University for the third consecutive year and cultivate the next generation of STEM talent through URIC. By fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and providing opportunities for students to develop advanced solutions through research, we aim to support the UAE's ongoing efforts to diversify the economy and build a thriving, knowledge-based future." In addition to the core research competition, ADU reintroduced the dedicated Innovation Track, open to UAE-based students with high-potential business ideas. Three winning teams were awarded seed funding, mentorship from industry leaders, and access to ADU's incubation hub to support the development of viable, market-ready ventures. Now in its twelfth year, URIC has become a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi University's commitment to championing youth-driven research and entrepreneurship. The competition aligns closely with the UAE's vision to empower emerging talent, foster knowledge creation, and build a more inclusive and sustainable future. In 2024, URIC attracted nearly 600 research submissions spanning 27 disciplines, with participation from 1,400 students representing 78 universities across 16 countries in the MENA region and beyond. Delivered in a hybrid format, the competition continues to grow its global reach while cultivating a vibrant platform for students to innovate, collaborate, and lead. For more information about Abu Dhabi University, please visit:
Al Bawaba
8 hours ago
- Al Bawaba
Jazeera Airways Gears Up to Resume Direct Flights to Damascus
Jazeera Airways, Kuwait's leading low-cost airline, is all set to resume direct flights between Kuwait and Damascus, Syria. Regional carriers across the GCC have already re-established air links with Syria, and Jazeera will also commence flying once it receives the regulatory planned resumption of flights comes in response to a strong demand from the large 200,000 strong Syrian expatriate community in Kuwait—one of the largest Middle Eastern communities in the country—as well as increasing interest in re-establishing business, cultural, and familial ties between the two nations. Jazeera Airways previously operated flights to Damascus, Aleppo, and Deir Ez Zoor, and is now well positioned to restore this vital Boodai, Chairman, Jazeera Airways stated, 'We are excited to start operating to Syria after a 12-year hiatus. Restoring direct flights to Damascus will provide a critical bridge for thousands of Syrians living and working in Kuwait, while also supporting broader regional efforts to re-engage with Syria. In line with the wider momentum across the region, we are completely set up and ready to start flying as soon as we receive the required regulatory approvals.'Several GCC nations, including Qatar, UAE and others in the Middle East region such as Jordan and Turkey have already resumed or announced their intentions to resume air connectivity with Syria, recognizing the growing need for regional integration and the normalization of civil aviation ties. Jazeera Airways is committed to upholding the highest operational and safety standards in line with international aviation protocols. Upon approval, the airline plans to operate direct daily services to Damascus, with further expansions to other Syrian cities also under consideration.
