Etihad Airways has announced the addition of seven new cities to its rapidly growing global network as part of its ambitious 2025 expansion strategy, bringing the total number of new destinations launched this year to 29. This strategic move supports the airline’s broader mission to elevate Abu Dhabi as a premier aviation and tourism hub, connecting the UAE capital to emerging markets across Central Asia, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.
The latest destinations joining Etihad’s network include Almaty (Kazakhstan), Baku (Azerbaijan), Bucharest (Romania), Tbilisi (Georgia), Tashkent (Uzbekistan), Yerevan (Armenia), and Medina (Saudi Arabia). While flights to Medina are set to commence in November 2025, the remaining routes are scheduled to launch in March 2026, with ticket sales opening soon.
Etihad’s CEO Antonoaldo Neves stated, “Our goal is clear—we want to bring more people directly to Abu Dhabi. These new routes connect us to fast-growing, culturally rich regions and will help stimulate demand for tourism and trade in the UAE’s capital.” He added that the expansion targets multiple travel segments, including religious pilgrimages, historical tourism, and business travel, and reinforces Etihad’s position as a leading carrier for both direct and connecting flights across the Middle East and beyond.
This major milestone not only underscores Etihad’s commitment to global connectivity but also aligns with the UAE’s long-term goals to strengthen international partnerships, boost tourism, and enhance air access to underserved and high-growth markets. With world-class service and seamless travel experiences, Etihad continues to play a vital role in positioning Abu Dhabi as a top global destination for leisure and business travelers alike.
