Sharjah: Air Arabia, the first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC) in the Middle East and North Africa, on Tuesday announced the launch of services to Arbil, its second destination in Iraq. Flights to the Iraqi city will commence on October 14, marking Air Arabia’s 76th destination worldwide.

The carrier will offer four weekly services between Sharjah and Arbil. On Mondays, Fridays and Sundays, flights depart from Sharjah International Airport at 07:00 and arrives Arbil International Airport at 09:00. Return flights will depart from Arbil on the same days at 09:40 and arrive in Sharjah at 13:20 (local time).

On Wednesdays, flights depart from Sharjah International Airport at 15:20 and arrives Arbil International Airport at 17:20. Return flight will depart Arbil on the same day at 18:00 and arrive in Sharjah at 21:40 (local time),

“Arbil services is a continuation of Air Arabia’s promise to expand our Middle Eastern presence,” said Adel Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia. “Arbil has seen promising growth in the past years with major developments across various sectors of the economy.”

“Our business strategy will continue to be present where our customers want us to be. That said, we are confident that Air Arabia’s services to the fourth largest city in Iraq will further contribute to the trade and tourism ties between the UAE and Iraq.” said Ali.

The new service to Arbil complements Air Arabia’s existing daily flights to Najaf. Located in the Northern Iraq, Arbil is the fourth largest city in Iraq. The city has a population of 1.3 million, and is a major business and cultural hub.