Air Arabia Expanding Abu Dhabi Operations as Wizz Air Exits
As Wizz Air prepares to leave Abu Dhabi, Air Arabia ramps up fleet and destinations to meet rising demand.
While Wizz Air is pulling out of Abu Dhabi, Air Arabia is stepping up its game in the same market. The Sharjah-based low-cost airline has confirmed expansion plans for its Air Arabia Abu Dhabi division, developed in partnership with Etihad Airways.
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, which launched mid-2020—six months ahead of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi—currently operates a fleet of 12 Airbus A320 aircraft. The airline plans to add two more A320s by the end of 2025 to meet the growing demand for travel to and from the UAE capital.
“This growth supports the rising demand for air travel to and from Abu Dhabi,” said Air Arabia Group CEO Adel Ali, noting that the fleet addition aligns with their commitment to operational efficiency and network expansion.
The airline serves over 30 destinations from its Abu Dhabi hub. Its aircraft use CFM International engines—unlike Wizz Air, which faced engine degradation issues with its Pratt & Whitney-powered fleet.
Wizz Air’s exit raises questions about the future deployment of its pending Airbus A321XLR orders, though the airline may shift some aircraft to other variants.
