‍LONDON — Demand for travel from the UK to the Middle East is growing. Gatwick Airport (LGW) reported a 22.7% increase in passenger numbers this summer. In response, Air Arabia (G9) will soon operate the only nonstop service between the UAE and the UK with twice-weekly flights from London Gatwick (LGW) to Sharjah (SHJ).

Flights begin on March 29 and will operate on Airbus A321LR aircraft. This service will increase the total number of weekly flights between London Gatwick and the Middle East in general to 80.

Multiple carriers have increased capacity to the region:

• Wizz Air (W6) launched its XLR services to Medina (MED) and Jeddah (JED)
• Qatar Airways (QR) operates larger 787-9 aircraft to Doha (DOH)
• Saudia (SV) is increasing the frequency of its new Neom Bay (NUM) route
• Gulf Air (GF) is delivering substantial numbers from its first summer at London Gatwick, operating to Bahrain (BAH)

Comments from Air Arabia, Gatwick officials

“The launch of our new service to London Gatwick marks a significant milestone in Air Arabia’s ongoing growth journey,” said Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia. “This expansion reflects our continued commitment to connecting our key markets with greater reach and convenience while delivering the value-driven travel experience Air Arabia is known for.

“The introduction of London Gatwick not only enhances connectivity from our Sharjah hub but reflects our commitment to offering customers, whether travelling for business or leisure, a greater choice of affordable and reliable air travel options. We look forward to welcoming travelers onboard and providing them with direct access between the UAE and the United Kingdom.”

Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer, London Gatwick, said, “Demand for flights to destinations across the Middle East has really taken off this yea,r and we have been delighted to offer passengers across London and the South East an increasingly fantastic range of routes and choice of carriers.

“It is an exciting time for another operator to join London Gatwick following the recent government approval for routine use of our Northern Runway, and we look forward to welcoming Air Arabia in March, serving the historic city of Sharjah and the wider Middle Eastern region.”