Two new budget airlines set to transform tourism in Abu Dhabi
Mohamed Al Zaabi, CEO of Yas Island’s master developer Miral, said the airlines will open up access to many new markets
“Having two more low-fair airlines coming to Abu Dhabi Airport, that will be a game changer as well for the tourism market in Abu Dhabi,” he said. Image: ITP Media Group
The upcoming launch of two new budget airlines from Abu Dhabi International Airport has been described as a “game changer” for the emirate’s tourism industry, according to Mohamed Al Zaabi, CEO of Yas Island’s master developer Miral.
A partnership between Etihad Airways and Air Arabia to create Air Arabia Abu Dhabi was announced in October last year, while European low-cost carrier Wizz Air signalled its intention in December to set up an airline in the UAE capital.
Speaking at a media event in Ferrari World this week, Al Zaabi said the airlines will open up access to many new markets.
“Having two more low-fare airlines coming to Abu Dhabi Airport, that will be a game changer as well for the tourism market in Abu Dhabi,” he said.
“I think Air Arabia, with their experience to access second and third tier cities in source markets like India, KSA, Russia and having Wizz Air, with access to second tier cities in Europe, that will improve our position as an attractive destination, Yas Island particularly and generally Abu Dhabi.”
Al Zaabi said he was “very excited” by the €100 million investment by Abu Dhabi Holding in Germany’s FTI Group, the third biggest travel agency company in Europe.
“I’m sure with their collaboration that will help us to have more tourists coming to Yas and Abu Dhabi,” he said.
Source: arabianbusiness.com
