Uzbekistan Airways and Flydubai expand route networks through interline agreement

Etihad Airways and Etihad Rail have concluded an agreement aimed at integrating their services. This includes developing comprehensive capabilities for booking both air and rail tickets, as well as establishing shuttle connections and passenger services directly at the stations to ensure a more seamless end-to-end travel experience for passengers.

Under this agreement, both companies will also explore the possibility of improving connectivity between Zayed International Airport and Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station through dedicated shuttles. This will facilitate transfers between the airport and the national rail network, thereby enhancing multimodal transport integration.

Aric De, Director of Revenue and Commercial Affairs at Etihad Airways, noted that Etihad Airways plays a vital role in attracting millions of visitors to Abu Dhabi annually. He emphasized that the partnership with Etihad Rail reflects the shared goal of strengthening the emirate's position as a leading global destination. According to De, the collaboration will open new opportunities to connect air transport with various destinations across the UAE, supporting tourism growth, increasing traveler convenience, and contributing to Abu Dhabi's long-term economic development.

Azza Al Suwaidi, Chief Operating Officer of Etihad Rail, stated that the UAE continues to develop an integrated national transport system that aligns with its comprehensive development path and supports future aspirations. She acknowledged that the future of transport lies in combining different modes of mobility.

Al Suwaidi added that since launching passenger rail services earlier this year, Etihad Rail has been strengthening the role of the national railway network in connecting cities and regions across the UAE, providing a more comfortable travel experience for residents and visitors alike.

Starting September 28, direct regular flights will operate between Tashkent and the Indian city of Hyderabad. These flights will run twice a week, with Centrum Air serving as the carrier. The flight schedule is set for Mondays and Thursdays.

According to the Tourism Committee, the opening of this new route is intended to facilitate travel between Uzbekistan and the southern regions of India, as well as promote the growth of mutual tourist flows.

Hyderabad is the capital of the state of Telangana in India and is recognized as one of the country's leading technology hubs, hosting offices of major global IT corporations.

Furthermore, plans were previously announced to connect Tashkent and Mauritius with direct flights. The first flight on this route is scheduled for December 26, with regular service planned to commence in June 2027.

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah discussed with the Governor of Samarkand Region, Aziz Boboev, the prospects of expanding tourism ties between the two countries, including the launch of a direct flight.

The issue of direct air connectivity was raised during the visit of a delegation from the Indonesian ministry, led by the Minister of Hajj and Umrah Muhammad Irfan Yusuf, to Samarkand. The parties noted that opening a direct flight could simplify travel for tourists and provide additional opportunities to include Samarkand in the itineraries of pilgrims performing Umrah.

Yusuf stated his desire to strengthen long-standing bilateral relations, emphasizing the historical nature of the ties between Indonesia and Uzbekistan, which were established even before both countries gained independence. He also linked the development of Islam in Indonesia to the work of theologians from Central Asia, including from Uzbekistan.

The Minister noted the potential for expanding cooperation in religious tourism. According to him, Indonesian pilgrims often continue their trips abroad after visiting holy sites in Saudi Arabia, naming Turkey, Dubai, and other Middle Eastern destinations as popular additional stops. He added that Samarkand could also be included in such routes, which would require further negotiations involving Indonesian travel companies specializing in organizing Umrah trips.

Yusuf clarified that the ministry he oversees has primarily regulatory powers and is not directly involved in organizing pilgrimage tours. During the visit, the minister also called for an increase in the number of tourists from Uzbekistan visiting Indonesia, noting that the country's tourism potential extends beyond Bali, including places like Lombok, Balitung, and Wakotobi.

In turn, Aziz Boboev welcomed the Indonesian side's initiative to strengthen friendly relations. The governor agreed that opening a direct flight could be an important factor in the future development of tourism ties. He also expressed hope for an increase in the number of Indonesian tourists visiting Muslim-significant sites in Uzbekistan, among which he highlighted sites related to prominent Islamic scholars such as Imam Bukhari, Imam al-Maturidi, Imam at-Tirmizi, and Bahauddin Naqshband.