Flydubai starts operations to Najaf

Dubai: Low-cost airline flydubai yesterday began flying to Najaf, bringing its destinations in Iraq to four. The flight marks the second new Iraqi destination for flydubai this month, following the start of flights to the capital Baghdad 10 days ago.

"The new service reflects our strategy to link Dubai with underserved airports, making it more convenient for inbound and outbound passengers," said CEO Gaith Al Gaith.

"At a time when a number of international airlines are looking at opportunities in Iraq, flydubai is leading the way with direct flights to four cities across the country in just 18 months.

"I am also pleased to report that our first flight was sold out, which highlights the demand for travel to Najaf."

The start of flights to Najaf secures flydubai's position as the UAE airline with the largest Iraqi network, with four cities.

The new route brings flydubai's network to 48 destinations in 27 countries in the GCC, Middle East, Africa, Indian Sub-Continent, Asia, CIS and the fringes of Europe.

The Iraqi Government has allocated $40 billion (Dh146.8 billion) this year for development projects covering infrastructure, electricity, education and health.

Telecoms is another rapidly expanding sector.

In an effort to boost relations between Iraq and GCC countries such as the UAE, officials are in discussions to host the next Arab Summit in Baghdad in March.