Wizz Air, the London-listed ultra-low-cost carrier, announced on Monday that it will suspend its Abu Dhabi operations from September 1, 2025, and exit its joint venture in the UAE.
The decision, the company said, follows a comprehensive reassessment of regional market conditions, mounting operational difficulties, and intensifying geopolitical instability across the Middle East.
The airline, which launched its Abu Dhabi venture in 2020, was the first ultra-low-cost carrier to be based in the UAE capital. However, it faced fierce competition from established regional players such as Air Arabia, Jazeera Airways, and flynas.
In a statement posted to the London Stock Exchange, Wizz Air said the move was part of a “strategic realignment” focusing on its core strengths in Central and Eastern Europe and selected Western European markets.
“We have had a tremendous journey in the Middle East and are proud of what we have built,” said József Váradi, CEO of Wizz Air. “This was a difficult decision, but the right one given the circumstances. We thank our dedicated employees and passengers.”
Shares in Wizz Air rose 1.84% to £1,051.0 on the London Stock Exchange following the announcement.
The airline cited three main factors for its withdrawal:
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Engine reliability issues in hot climates affecting fleet availability
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Geopolitical instability disrupting airspace and suppressing demand
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Regulatory restrictions limiting market access and growth
Despite these setbacks, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi saw remarkable growth in 2024, operating more than 19,000 flights and carrying over 3.5 million passengers.
It also introduced innovative products such as the region’s first flight subscription models—Wizz MultiPass and All You Can Fly—which sold out rapidly. Passengers with bookings beyond August 31, 2025, will be contacted directly with refund or alternative travel options.
Those who booked through third-party agents are advised to reach out to them directly. Wizz Air confirmed that other operations within the group will remain unaffected.
The exit marks a notable shift in strategy for the airline, which plans to refocus on higher-performing markets in Europe amid mounting external challenges. The company emphasized that the decision was aimed at preserving profitability and maximizing shareholder value.
Wizz Air brought over 1.2 million international visitors to Abu Dhabi in 2024 and contributed 25% of the point-to-point traffic at Zayed International Airport. Its promotional fares starting at Dh79 and expanded route network had made it a favorite among budget-conscious travelers in the region.
With the suspension looming, the airline’s presence in the Gulf is set to fade, concluding what Váradi called a “tremendous journey” in the Middle East.