Malaysian low-cost carrier AirAsia has decided to introduce flights to Abu Dhabi in November, marking its foray into the Middle East region.

According to carrier, the new Kuala Lumpur-Abu Dhabi route, to be functioned by the its long-haul affiliate AirAsia X, will commence on 23 November with five weekly flights in time for the peak travel season for Muslims.

AirAsia X Chief Executive Azran Osman-Rani said it indicated the group's expansion plans were on track despite the worldwide economic downturn.

The airline sees an untapped market in Abu Dhabi.