In the wake of the historical Peace Agreement, United Arab Emirates and Israeli citizens are finally able to travel to each other’s countries without applying for a visa. Flydubai announced the launch of regular flights between Dubai International (DXB) and Tel Aviv Ben Gurion (TLV) airports.
Dubai state owned airline flydubai will start the flights on November 26, 2020. There will be a twice-daily route with a total of 14 flights a week. The economy class fares will be starting from $360 and business class – from $1,600.
The airline said that travelers would be able to use these flights not only for visiting Israel but also for stopovers on the way to Indian Ocean, Far East and Africa.
“Following the recent bilateral agreement, the start of scheduled flights will contribute to economic development and create further opportunities for investment in pursuit of our shared interests and values,” said flydubai CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith.
The US assisted the Abraham Accords peace deal between UAE and Israel. “The Parties acknowledge the importance of ensuring regular direct flights between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, for passengers and cargo, as an essential means for developing and promoting their relations”, stated the treaty.
On October 19, 2020, Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways operated the first passenger flight to Tel Aviv. It brought Israeli delegation to the UAE capital for a visit. El Al Israel Airlines, the country’s biggest carrier, has also operated flights carrying official delegations.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that more countries are seeking to normalize ties with Israel and put the Palestinian issue behind. However, Saudi Arabia said it will not follow UAE’s example for diplomatic relationships without a resolution to a Israeli-Palestinian conflict.