Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest budget carrier operator, has inaugurated its new non-stop service between Sharjah International Airport and Rome Fiumicino Airport, marking another milestone in the airline’s continued expansion across Europe.

The new route operates five weekly non-stop flights, providing customers with greater convenience, affordability, and seamless connectivity between the UAE and Italy while further strengthening tourism, business, and cultural ties between the two countries.

The new route launch was marked by celebratory ceremonies at both Sharjah and Rome airports.

At Sharjah International Airport, the event was attended by Ms. Francesca Dell’Apa, Deputy Consul General of Italy, H.E. Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Airport Authority, H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Saud Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA), Mr. Adel Al Ali, Group Chief executive officer of Air Arabia along with members of senior leadership team.

Another welcome ceremony was held at Rome Fiumicino Airport in the presence of airport officials and Air Arabia representatives to commemorate the launch of the new direct service between Sharjah and Rome.

Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia, said: “We are delighted to further expand our European network with the launch of our new non-stop service between Sharjah and Rome. Italy continues to be an important market for Air Arabia, and the addition of Rome strengthens our presence in the country while providing our customers with even greater choice and affordable travel options. We remain committed to expanding our network with reliable, value-driven services that connect people, businesses and cultures across our growing international network.”

H.E. Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, said: “The launch of direct flights to the Italian capital, Rome, marks a new step in Sharjah Airport’s journey towards expanding its presence in European markets, in line with the continued growth in travel demand and the evolving expectations of travellers seeking more diverse and convenient options. Rome holds particular significance as one of Europe’s most prominent destinations, combining historical depth with economic activity and tourism, making it a valuable addition to our international destination network and cultural exchange between the two countries.”

“With the launch of the new Sharjah service, Rome Fiumicino further expands its intercontinental network and strengthens its role as a leading hub for connections between Italy and the Middle East,” said Ivan Bassato, Chief Aviation Officer of Aeroporti di Roma. “Sharjah is the third most populous city in the United Arab Emirates and forms part of the largest metropolitan area in the country. The inauguration of Air Arabia’s new flight expands travel opportunities to the Arabian Peninsula, helping to strengthen connectivity with a key market for Rome, which overtook 2 million passengers in 2025, marking a 5% increase compared with 2024”.

The addition of Rome further strengthens Air Arabia’s expanding European network from Sharjah, which now includes Milan Bergamo, Munich, Vienna, Athens, Prague, Krakow, Warsaw Chopin, Warsaw Modlin, London Gatwick, and Rome, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to enhancing connectivity between the UAE and key destinations across Europe.

The service is operated using Air Arabia’s latest Airbus A320neo aircraft, supporting the airline’s ongoing commitment to operational efficiency and sustainability through the deployment of more fuel-efficient aircraft.

Air Arabia operates a modern fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, offering passengers a comfortable and value-driven travel experience. Customers can enjoy the airline’s generous legroom, SkyTime, its complimentary in-flight streaming service, and SkyCafe, its onboard dining menu. Passengers can also benefit from Air Rewards, the region’s most generous loyalty programme.

Customers can now book their direct flights between Sharjah and Rome by visiting Air Arabia’s website, contacting the call centre, or through travel agencies.