As Airlines Avoid Israel, UAE’s FlyDubai and Etihad Continue Flights for Diplomacy and Profit

UAE’s FlyDubai and Etihad Maintain Flights to Israel Amid Regional Tensions, Balancing Diplomacy and Economic Interests

The long-term consequences of more than a year of conflict are seen at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport. The airport, which was once teeming with international airlines, now has vacant gates as flights are canceled by those carriers, and the scant stream of travelers is met with chilling pictures of hostages still being held in Gaza. The check-in desks of UAE carriers FlyDubai and Etihad, which still run flights and provide an essential link between Israel and the outside world, stand out as an exception against this backdrop.

A Statement on Politics and Economics
Maintaining Emirati flights is a practical economic move as well as a political gesture signifying the closer ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, which were established by the 2020 Abraham Accords. According to Joshua Teitelbaum, a professor of Middle Eastern studies at Bar-Ilan University, this move is “a political and economic statement,” demonstrating the UAE’s resolve to maintain ties with Israel despite the current unrest.

Etihad, the flag carrier of Abu Dhabi, and FlyDubai, a low-cost airline connected to Emirates, have been essential in maintaining Israel’s international connectivity. FlyDubai has continuously flown numerous daily flights to Tel Aviv, ensuring continuity of travel and trade during the crisis, while major carriers including as Delta, Lufthansa, and other low-cost competitors suspended operations.

Maintaining Air Connectivity Amid Challenges
The decision to keep flights running comes with significant risks. Airlines remember incidents like the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over Ukraine and Iran’s 2020 accidental downing of a Ukrainian jetliner. Despite these risks, FlyDubai has demonstrated remarkable resilience, operating over 1,800 flights to Israel since October 2023, canceling just 77 flights, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium.

Although it operates on a lower scale than FlyDubai, Etihad has also expanded to Tel Aviv. These airlines’ dedication not only gives Israel vital connection, but it also highlights the UAE’s larger geopolitical objectives.

Financial Gains for the Airlines
Significant financial gains have resulted from the flights, particularly for FlyDubai, which is gaining market share in the face of less competition. The airline secured a 3.6% market share at Ben Gurion Airport by operating more than 200 flights to Israel in September alone. FlyDubai’s ongoing operations demonstrate its strategic intent on sustaining its presence in the region, even though this is insignificant in contrast to El Al’s 43.2%.

El Al, Israel’s national airline, has made record profits during the conflict, and the lack of competition has caused ticket prices to rise. However, FlyDubai and Etihad have largely filled the void left by El Al’s absence of international routes and partnerships, which restricts its worldwide connection.

The UAE’s Two-Pronged Strategy: Geopolitics and Business
Additionally, the UAE’s dedication to continuing flights to Israel is consistent with its geopolitical objectives. Normalized relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates were established by the Abraham Accords, which were mediated by former Donald Trump of the United States. Despite criticizing Israel’s actions in Gaza, the UAE has kept diplomatic connections; Israel’s consulate in Dubai and embassy in Abu Dhabi remain open.

The UAE’s choice demonstrates its emphasis on long-term strategic objectives, such as thwarting regional Islamist movements. Abu Dhabi’s geopolitical aspirations place stability and influence in the Middle East at the forefront, whereas Dubai’s strategy is mostly focused on business.

A Declaration of Commitment Amid Regional Tensions
Furthermore, the continuation of the flights is a symbolic demonstration of the UAE’s dedication to its alliance with Israel.
“The UAE has decided that this is a step they took, and the relationship remains beneficial to them despite challenges,” said Dina Esfandiary, a senior advisor at the International Crisis Group.

Improved Security Protocols

Increased security has been put in place as the flights continue. The Tel Aviv check-in area at Dubai International Airport is tucked away, with covert agents and visible private security making sure everyone is safe. Nonetheless, the combination of Arabic and Hebrew among passengers demonstrates the special diplomatic and cultural link these aircraft uphold.

Taking a Forward Look
The UAE’s FlyDubai and Etihad airlines, which maintain air connectivity while strengthening their connections with Israel, continue to serve as prime examples of striking a balance between diplomatic strategy and economic practicality. This unwavering dedication, which serves as a lifeline for tourists and a representation of changing Middle Eastern diplomacy, highlights the UAE-Israel relationship’s tenacity despite ongoing tensions.