Hungarian low-cost airline Wizz Air said today it is halting all operations in the Middle East, effective 1 September.
This is part of a "strategic realignment" of operations following "a comprehensive reassessment of market dynamics, operational challenges and geopolitical developments in the Middle East", the airline's subsidiary Wizz Air Abu Dhabi said via the X social media platform.
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi faced operational challenges over the past year, including engine reliability constraints particularly in hot and harsh environments, which have affected aircraft availability and operational efficiency. It also noted geopolitical volatility, which has led to repeated airspace closures and operational disruptions, and wrecked consumer demand.
Wizz Air also said regulatory barriers have limited its ability to access and scale in key regional markets.
The airline said it intends to exit from the joint venture with state-owned Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company (ADQ). ADQ holds a 51pc stake in the venture, while Wizz Air holds the remaining 49pc.
Wizz Air said it will turn its focus back on its core Central and Eastern Europe, as well as select western European markets such as Austria, Italy and the UK.
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi began operations in early 2021, after receiving its air operator certificate from the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority in October 2020.
