ABU DHABI,— The United Arab Emirates and the Philippines have agreed to widen air services between the two countries after aviation talks held in Abu Dhabi, officials said.

The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority held consultations with the Philippines Civil Aeronautics Board to review existing air transport arrangements and future operational needs, Emirates News Agency, Wakalat Anba’a al Emarat (WAM) reported.

The discussions focused on passenger demand, airline capacity, and ways to improve direct air links between the two markets.

As a result of the meetings, the Philippines granted the UAE additional flight entitlements. This decision allows UAE national airlines to operate more services to Manila, expanding available seat capacity on the route and supporting continued growth in travel between the two countries.

According to WAM, the agreement reflects growing demand for air travel and the strong aviation relationship built over several years.

Officials said the expansion will help airlines better manage peak travel periods and improve options for passengers flying between the Gulf and Southeast Asia.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, said the outcome of the talks highlighted ongoing coordination between the two sides in civil aviation.

He said the move supports improved air connectivity, responds to passenger requirements, and contributes to sustainable development in the aviation sector.

UAE carriers already operate regular flights to Manila from major hubs including Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Philippine airlines also maintain daily services to several UAE airports.

The expanded entitlements are expected to provide flexibility for both scheduled and future commercial operations.

The Philippines and the UAE have a long established aviation partnership supported by steady passenger traffic. A significant Filipino community lives and works in the UAE, contributing to consistent demand for travel for work, family visits, and tourism.

Beyond aviation, the two countries maintain broad economic ties. According to WAM, non oil trade between the UAE and the Philippines reached about 940 million dollars in 2024.

Trade in the first half of 2025 totaled around 257.7 million dollars. Officials have said both sides are exploring further trade growth through a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which is expected to be concluded under the UAE CEPA program launched in 2021.

Investment links are also expanding. UAE companies have shown interest in sectors including renewable energy.

In January, Abu Dhabi based Masdar signed agreements to develop renewable energy projects in the Philippines with a combined capacity of one gigawatt, marking a new phase of cooperation.

Officials from both countries said cooperation in air services, trade, and investment remains a priority and supports tourism, business exchanges, and people to people connections.

(With files from WAM | Agencies)

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