Etihad Airways has announced that it will increase flights between Abu Dhabi and Damascus, the Syrian capital, from November 14, operating a daily service on the route.

The airline said it would increase its weekly flights to Damascus from four to seven, following growing passenger demand since the route was launched in June.

Etihad said the additional flights would provide passengers with greater flexibility when planning their journeys and strengthen Syria’s air links to other international destinations across its network via Abu Dhabi.

Under the new schedule, passengers travelling from Syria will be able to connect through Abu Dhabi to destinations across North America, including New York and Toronto. The Canadian city of Calgary will also join Etihad’s global network from October 25.

Arik De, Etihad Airways’ Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said passenger demand for the Damascus service had exceeded the airline’s expectations since the route was launched in June.

“From the very first flight, the response to the Damascus route has been extremely encouraging, and increasing the service to daily flights is the natural next step for us,” he said.

He added that the expanded service would make it easier for UAE residents to travel to the Syrian capital and further establish Damascus as another destination connected to Etihad Airways’ network.

With thousands of Syrian citizens living in the UAE, the increase in flights could offer them greater flexibility when planning trips home.

Etihad Airways is expanding its Damascus services as Syria seeks to revive its economy and tourism sector after years of international financial restrictions and political upheaval. Rising tourist arrivals and new investment are among the developments seen as contributing to the country’s economic recovery.