Air Arabia, the first and largest low-cost carrier in the Middle East and North Africa, announced today the launch of service to Kabul, Afghanistan, from its hub in Sharjah, UAE starting December 16, 2010.

With a history that spans over 3,500 years, Kabul is Air Arabia’s first destination in Afghanistan. With the addition of this new destination, Air Arabia now serves 66 routes from three hubs in the UAE, Morocco and Egypt.

Roundtrip flights will operate four times per week between Kabul International Airport and Sharjah International Airport. The low-cost carrier will fly to Kabul on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, departing Sharjah at 6:00 AM and arrive in Kabul at 9:00 AM. On the same days, return flights will depart Kabul at 9:45 AM and arrive in Sharjah at 12:05 PM.

“The launch of direct service to Kabul, our first destination in Afghanistan, will mark another milestone in Air Arabia’s ever growing network,” said AK Nizar, Head of Commercial Department, Air Arabia. “Kabul is a city full of history and culture. Its strategic location along the trade routes of South and Central Asia also makes it a prime hub for trade and commerce.”

Situated 1,800 metres above sea level in a narrow valley between the Hindu Kush mountains and along the Kabul River, the city of Kabul is an economic and cultural centre.