Air Arabia launches direct flights between Sharjah and Rome

Air Arabia, the first and largest low-cost airline in the Middle East and North Africa, announced the launch of its new direct flights between Sharjah International Airport and Rome Fiumicino Airport, in a new step within its continued expansion strategy in Europe.
The carrier operates the new service between Sharjah and the Italian capital, Rome, at a regular rate. To celebrate the launch of the new destination, inauguration ceremonies were held at both Sharjah International Airport and Rome Fiumicino International Airport.

The inauguration ceremony at Sharjah International Airport witnessed the presence of the Italian Deputy Consul General in Dubai, Francesca Del Apa, the Chairman of the Sharjah International Airport Authority, Ali Salem Al Midfa, the Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, the Director of the Sharjah International Airport Authority, Sheikh Faisal bin Saud Al Qasimi, and the CEO of the Air Arabia Group, Adel Al Ali, along with a number of senior officials in the company.

A reception ceremony was also held at Rome Fiumicino Airport to celebrate the launch of the new service, in the presence of airport officials and representatives of the Air Arabia group, on the occasion of the launch of the first direct flights linking Sharjah and Rome.

On this occasion, Air Arabia Group CEO, Adel Al Ali, said: “We are pleased to continue expanding our network of European destinations by launching our new direct service between Sharjah and Rome. Italy is one of the important markets within the Air Arabia network in Europe, and the launch of this new destination strengthens our presence in the Italian market and provides our customers with more diverse and flexible travel options at competitive prices. We continue our commitment to expanding our international network of destinations by providing reliable, value-added services, and enhancing communication between individuals, businesses and cultures across the various destinations we serve.”

Ali Salem Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah International Airport Authority, said: “The launch of direct flights to the Italian capital, Rome, represents a new step in Sharjah Airport’s journey towards expanding its presence in European markets, keeping pace with the continuous growth in travel traffic and meeting the aspirations of travelers looking for more diverse and easy options. Rome gains special importance as one of the most prominent European destinations that combines historical depth with economic and tourism activity, which makes it a qualitative addition to our international network of destinations. It also reflects our ongoing vision to develop the Sharjah Airport network of destinations in line with the growing demand for travel, and guarantees travelers an integrated experience based on efficiency, ease of access, and quality of services.”

Ivan Passato, CEO of the Aviation Sector at Rome Airports, said: “The launch of the new service between Sharjah and Rome contributes to strengthening the international flight network of Rome Fiumicino Airport, and consolidating its role as a major hub linking Italy and the Middle East region. Sharjah is the third largest city in terms of population in the UAE, and is characterized by a strategic location inhabited by millions. The launch of the new Air Arabia flight contributes to expanding travel opportunities to the Arabian Peninsula and enhancing air connectivity with a major market of the city of Rome, as the number of passengers between Rome and the Arabian Peninsula exceeded two million passengers during the year 2025, recording a growth of 5% compared to 2024.

The launch of the Rome destination strengthens Air Arabia’s growing network of destinations to Europe from Sharjah, which currently includes Milan Bergamo, Munich, Vienna, Athens, Prague, Krakow, Warsaw Chopin, Warsaw Modlin, London Gatwick, and Rome, confirming the company’s commitment to enhancing air connectivity between the UAE and the most prominent European destinations.

Air Arabia operates its new flights to Rome on board its latest Airbus A320neo aircraft, which features a longer operational range and higher fuel efficiency, enhancing the carrier’s commitment to operational efficiency and sustainability.

Air Arabia operates a modern fleet consisting entirely of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, and provides its customers with an integrated travel experience through SkyTime, a free on-board streaming service that allows passengers to enjoy a wide range of movies and entertainment through their personal devices, in addition to the SkyCafe menu, which offers a variety of dishes and snacks at reasonable prices. Travelers can also take advantage of the benefits of the AirRewards loyalty program, which is one of the most generous loyalty programs in the region.