UAE-Italy travel: Air Arabia launches direct Sharjah-Rome flights
New route operated with fuel-efficient Airbus A320neo aircraft
SHARJAH – Air Arabia 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 launch makes Rome the airline's second destination in Italy and further strengthens connectivity between the UAE and one of Europe's most visited capitals.
The new route is expected to support tourism, business travel and cultural exchange while offering passengers greater choice and affordable travel options.
The service operates five weekly non-stop flights between Sharjah and Rome, enhancing access for travellers between the two countries. The route was officially launched with celebratory events at both Sharjah International Airport and Rome Fiumicino Airport, attended by senior government officials, airport executives and Air Arabia representatives.
Route launch
The inauguration ceremony at Sharjah International Airport was attended by Francesca Dell'Apa, Deputy Consul General of Italy; Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Airport Authority; Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority; Sheikh Faisal bin Saud Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Airport Authority; and Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, alongside members of the airline's senior leadership team.
Just welcomed @airarabiagroup’s inaugural flight from #Sharjah to Rome #Fiumicino, marking the launch of a new direct connection between the UAE and Italy! ????????????????
— Aeroporti di Roma (@AeroportidiRoma) July 14, 2026
With 5 weekly flights, this new route expands our intercontinental network and creates more travel opportunities,… pic.twitter.com/DXLs9hlon2
A second welcome ceremony was also held at Rome Fiumicino Airport in the presence of airport officials and Air Arabia representatives to commemorate the arrival of the inaugural direct flight from Sharjah.
Commenting on the launch, Adel Al Ali said the new service further expands Air Arabia's European network and reinforces the importance of Italy as a key market for the airline.
"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," he said.
Al Ali added that the airline remains committed to expanding its network with reliable, value-driven services that connect people, businesses and cultures across its growing international network.
Sharjah to Rome
Ali Salim Al Midfa said the introduction of direct flights to the Italian capital marks another step in Sharjah Airport's strategy to expand its presence across European markets in response to growing travel demand.
He described Rome as one of Europe's most significant destinations, combining historical importance with strong economic activity and tourism, making it a valuable addition to Sharjah Airport's international route network while strengthening cultural exchange between the UAE and Italy.
Ivan Bassato, Chief Aviation Officer of Aeroporti di Roma, said the new Sharjah service further expands Rome Fiumicino's intercontinental network and strengthens its position as a leading hub linking Italy with the Middle East.
He noted that Sharjah is the UAE's third most populous city and part of the country's largest metropolitan area. According to Bassato, the new route broadens travel opportunities to the Arabian Peninsula and strengthens connectivity with an important market for Rome Fiumicino, which handled more than 2 million passengers in 2025, representing a 5 percent increase compared with 2024.
European network
The addition of Rome further strengthens Air Arabia's growing European network from Sharjah. The airline now serves Milan Bergamo, Munich, Vienna, Athens, Prague, Krakow, Warsaw Chopin, Warsaw Modlin, London Gatwick and Rome, reflecting its continued focus on improving connectivity between the UAE and major European destinations.
The Rome service is operated using Air Arabia's latest Airbus A320neo aircraft, supporting the airline's commitment to greater operational efficiency and sustainability through the use of more fuel-efficient aircraft.
Air Arabia operates a modern fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft and offers passengers a range of onboard services, including generous legroom, the complimentary SkyTime in-flight streaming service and the SkyCafe onboard dining menu. Travellers can also earn benefits through Air Rewards, the airline's loyalty programme.
Customers can book direct flights between Sharjah and Rome through Air Arabia's website, call centre or authorised travel agencies.