UAE-Israel Relations Thrive Amid Regional Turmoil

In the midst of ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Ben Gurion International Airport in Israel has seen a dramatic shift in its aviation landscape. While many global airlines have canceled or suspended their flights due to the unstable security situation following Hamas's October 7th, 2023 attacks on Israel, one airline has remained a reliable connector to the outside world: flydubai, the UAE-based low-cost carrier.

As the only foreign airline continuing regular flights into Israel during the war, flydubai has become a symbol of the UAE's political and economic commitment to its relationship with Israel. This commitment was solidified in 2020, when the UAE, along with Bahrain, normalized relations with Israel under the *Abraham Accords*, brokered by then-U.S. President Donald Trump.

Strategic and Economic Significance of Emirati Flights

Despite the region’s turmoil, flydubai has maintained a consistent flight schedule, operating more than 1,800 flights to Israel since October 2023, only canceling a handful. This stands in stark contrast to the actions of other international carriers such as Delta Air Lines and Lufthansa, who have either halted or reduced services due to safety concerns.

For flydubai, continuing to operate flights into Israel is not only a *political statement—signaling stability and commitment to the diplomatic ties forged through the Abraham Accords—but also an economic boon. The carrier has been able to capitalize on the gap left by competitors, further solidifying its position in the Israeli market*.

UAE’s Continued Diplomatic and Security Ties with Israel

The UAE's support for Israel through continued air travel is also a reflection of the broader geopolitical dynamics in the region. While the UAE has voiced concerns over Israel’s military actions in Gaza, it has consistently underscored its commitment to peace and stability, stressing the importance of dialogue and a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict. However, the UAE has avoided taking drastic actions that could damage its relationship with Israel, understanding that the diplomatic, economic, and security benefits are significant.

At Dubai International Airport, where flights to Tel Aviv remain operational, a heightened security presence has been observed, reflecting the sensitive nature of the flights. Travelers on these routes can still be heard conversing in Hebrew and Arabic, indicating the deepening connections between the two nations despite broader regional tensions.

Economic Benefits for Israel and the UAE

For Israel, the continued flights provide a crucial lifeline, as many other international airlines have scaled back operations. The UAE's decision to maintain connections with Israel through flydubai and Etihad Airways has provided vital air travel options for Israeli citizens and businesses, bolstering both tourism and trade with the Gulf. Meanwhile, El Al, Israel's national carrier, has benefited from the influx of business as other foreign airlines pulled back.

The Future of UAE-Israel Relations Amid Ongoing Conflict

As the conflict continues to affect regional stability, the UAE-Israel relationship remains resilient. The relationship, rooted in mutual economic cooperation, *security collaboration*, and the shared interest in countering regional threats, has proved to be more durable than anticipated.

Dina Esfandiary, a senior adviser at the International Crisis Group, notes that the UAE’s decision to maintain flights to Israel despite the war is a clear *statement of commitment*: "No matter what happens, the UAE has decided that this is a step they took, and the relationship remains beneficial to them."