Wizz Air suspends Wizz Air Abu Dhabi operations

Wizz Air Holdings PLC has suspended Wizz Air Abu Dhabi operations to focus on core markets in Central and Eastern Europe and select Western European destinations.

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has faced increasing operational challenges over the past year. Image: Wizz Air

The airline said the decision follows a comprehensive reassessment of market dynamics, operational challenges, and geopolitical developments in the Middle East.

As a result of the suspension of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi operations as part of this strategic realignment, Wizz Air will suspend all locally based flight operations effective 1 September 2025 and intends to exit from the joint venture going forward and will focus on its core markets.

Strategic Rationale

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has faced increasing operational challenges over the past year, including:

  • Engine reliability constraints, particularly in hot and harsh environments, which have impacted aircraft availability and operational efficiency;
  • Geopolitical volatility, which has led to repeated airspace closures and operational disruptions across the region, as well as wreaking consumer demand;
  • Regulatory barriers, which have limited the Company’s ability to access and scale in key markets 

József Váradi, CEO of Wizz Air, said: “These factors have significantly impacted the viability of Wizz Air’s ultra-low-cost model in the region and its ability to deliver profitability in line with its core European operations. Wizz Air will intensify its focus on its core Central and Eastern European markets, as well as select Western European countries such as Austria, Italy and the UK. This strategic realignment to core markets will enable the Company to redeploy resources to regions with greater long-term potential for sustainable growth and profitability.”

He added: “We have had a tremendous journey in the Middle East and are proud of what we have built. I thank our highly dedicated employees for their relentless efforts and commitment for developing the WIZZ brand in new and dynamic markets. However, the operating environment has changed significantly. Supply chain constraints, geopolitical instability, and limited market access have made it increasingly difficult to sustain our original ambitions. While this was a difficult decision, it is the right one given the circumstances. We continue to focus on our core markets and on initiatives that enhance Wizz Air's customer proposition and build shareholder value."

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