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AirAsia, the World's Best Low-Cost Airline, continues to boost its international connectivity by announcing the launch of its first long haul low cost route into the Middle East between Abu Dhabi and Kuala Lumpur; further expanding its already vast network in the region.
This new Kuala Lumpur - Abu Dhabi route, serviced by AirAsia's low-fare long-haul affiliate, AirAsia X, will begin on 23 November 2009 with five times weekly flights in time for the peak Haj and Eid-dul Adha travel season. To mark the opening for sale of this new route, AirAsia X is offering an attractive promotional all-in, low fare of AED99 (RM99)* one-way which is exclusively available online via AirAsia's website at www.airasia.com, and via mobile at mobile.airasia.com. Booking period is from 20 August to 26 August 2009, for travel between 23 November 2009 to 31 July 2010.

AirAsia celebrated the announcement with an auspicious ceremony at the Shagri-La Qaryat Al Beri in Abu Dhabi today graced by Mr. Ahmed Al Haddabi, Senior Vice President, Airport Operations of ADAC, Ambassador of Malaysia in UAE; H.E. Dato Yahaya Abdul Jabar and Director General of Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA); H.E. Mubarak Hamad Al Muheiri, and AirAsia X CEO Azran Osman-Rani. Also present were over 200 guests from the hoteliers, trade and government authorities.

AirAsia X CEO Azran Osman-Rani said, "We are ecstatic with our first long haul route into the Middle East from Kuala Lumpur. This clearly indicates that our expansion plans are on track which represents our determination in providing truly low fares on our low-cost, long-haul services across the globe. We believe our low fares will help to stimulate and trigger new travel demand, and will help to boost tourism potential on both ends. This is part of our overall strategy in expanding into the Middle East. We see an untapped market which has strong economic potential for the route. Abu Dhabi is the largest city in UAE, with a population of 2 million - in which more than 80% of the populations are frequent traveling expatriates. Hence, we foresee an increasing trend of UAE travelers flying to Malaysia for holidays; tapping into a very lucrative market. There will also be potential demand from Malaysian and ASEAN travelers who dream to experience the wonders of the Middle East for the first time, as it is now so affordable to do so."

"Abu Dhabi was chosen as our first Middle Eastern destination due to its appeal as a major majestic holiday destination with various fascinating places to offer visitors, ranging from tranquil beaches, majestic mosques with towering minarets, 200 desert islands and nature reserve and world class infrastructure. Furthermore, the city also serves as a gateway to popular cities like Dubai which is just an hour away and bus services will be provided by Abu Dhabi airport to the city. Abu Dhabi is also an excellent gateway with many connecting flights to popular Middle East countries such as Saudi Arabia (Jeddah and Medina), Egypt, Turkey, Jordan, Iran, Bahrain, Qatar, and many more. We will work towards making Abu Dhabi as our major ‘brand' destination, like our trademark ‘Kangaroo routes' that we have in place for Australia," concludes Azran.

Chairman of ADAC, His Excellency Khalifa Al Mazrouei said, "This new route, which is due to begin in mid-November this year, will help to enhance the Emirate's connectivity to the Far East and beyond. ADAC is very focused on the resident population and at the needs of the local community, and it is apparent that there is a large market for this low cost carrier. South East Asia is one of our largest markets, with 2008 statistics showing a 24 per cent increase in origin and destination passengers from Abu Dhabi to this region. Kuala Lumpur is the third most popular destination and a convenient entry point to the rest of the South East Asia".

"AirAsia X will form an integral part of this ambition and I look forward to a lasting and prosperous partnership into the future," he concluded.

*All fares quoted are applicable for one-way travel only.