London- Israel ’s Arkia Airways announced on Wednesday it signed a partnership deal with Qatar airways, in what would be the first deal between Israel and a Gulf Arab carrier.

However, Qatar Airways refused to comment on the announcement when contacted by Asharq al Awsat. A spokesperson would only say that this was not the first time that Israeli newspapers would publish such information.

The Jerusalem Post, which reported the agreement, indicated that Israeli passport holders would be allowed to travel from Tel Aviv to the Jordanian capital Amman on board Arkia flights and then continue their journey, using the same ticket, on Qatar Airways.

Arkia noted it was adjusting its timetable to Amman to allow for easier connections. Beginning in December, Arkia will operate two flights a week to Amman on Monday and Wednesday.

The airline said in a statement that under the deal, Israelis would not need a visa to be in the transit area in Qatar”s airport.