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Hungarian low-cost carrier Wizz Air announced Monday its decision to discontinue all operations from its Abu Dhabi hub starting September 1, 2025.
The airline stated it plans to exit its joint venture in the region, which has faced difficulties in achieving profitability amidst various challenges.
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, a collaboration established in 2020 with the Emirati state-owned Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company, operated approximately 30 routes across the Middle East.
The airline cited several factors for its departure, including “engine reliability constraints, particularly in hot and harsh environments,” “geopolitical volatility” leading to airspace disruptions and reduced consumer demand following the 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, and “regulatory barriers.”
Strategic Shift to Core Markets
Wizz Air, which has previously grounded some Airbus planes due to issues with Pratt & Whitney engines, confirmed it will now focus its resources on core markets in Central and Eastern Europe, as well as select Western European countries.
This “strategic realignment” aims to redeploy resources to regions offering greater long-term potential for sustainable growth and profitability.
Founded in 2003, Wizz Air has seen a significant decline in its value on the London Stock Exchange, losing nearly 80% since its peak in March 2021.
Experts like Gabor Bukta of Concorde Securities suggest the airline may be grappling with more fundamental issues, citing “overambitious growth” and “weak fundamentals” in the face of strong, price-competitive rivals.
According to its latest financial report, Wizz Air operates 231 aircraft with over 8,000 employees, flying to 55 countries on 833 routes and carrying 63.4 million passengers annually.
