Etihad Airways has marked another milestone in its record year of expansion, launching four inaugural routes to Tunis, Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and Hong Kong within just three days.
The airline’s accelerated growth further strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub, contributing to nearly 45 per cent of the UAE’s total aviation growth in 2025.
The new routes reinforce Etihad’s strategic focus on connecting Abu Dhabi to key global markets while supporting inbound tourism, trade, and investment.
They also provide UAE residents and international visitors with greater travel options across Asia and North Africa.
New Abu Dhabi routes
Each of the four destinations plays a distinct role in Etihad’s growing network of over 85 international routes, underscoring the airline’s pivotal role in linking Abu Dhabi with major global economies and travel corridors.
New routes from Abu Dhabi:
- Tunis (November 1, three weekly flights): Strengthening Etihad’s North African presence and catering to increasing travel demand between the UAE and Tunisia
- Hanoi (November 2, six weekly flights): Connecting Abu Dhabi directly with Vietnam’s capital for the first time, enhancing tourism and trade ties between the two nations
- Chiang Mai (November 3, four weekly flights): Opening Northern Thailand to travellers from the Middle East and Europe via Abu Dhabi
- Hong Kong (November 3, five weekly flights): Reconnecting Abu Dhabi with one of Asia’s most important business and leisure hubs, alongside the relaunch of Etihad’s codeshare with Hong Kong Airlines for greater regional connectivity
Strengthening Abu Dhabi’s role as a global gateway
Antonoaldo Neves, CEOof Etihad Airways, said: “Each of these destinations adds its own character to our network – from Tunis’s heritage to Hanoi’s vibrancy, Chiang Mai’s charm and Hong Kong’s global energy.
“Together, they expand options for our guests while bringing more visitors to discover Abu Dhabi – one of the world’s most exciting cities.
“As we continue to deliver almost half of the UAE’s aviation growth this year, our focus remains on connecting more people, cultures, and opportunities through our home in Abu Dhabi.”
Etihad’s latest expansion is expected to add thousands of new seats to and from Abu Dhabi, making it easier for travellers from Asia and Africa to experience the emirate’s cultural landmarks, pristine beaches, and growing calendar of global events.
The routes also reflect the airline’s contribution to the UAE’s long-term tourism and economic diversification goals, as outlined in Abu Dhabi’s Vision 2030.
With the addition of these new destinations, Etihad Airways continues to position itself as a key driver of the UAE’s aviation growth, enhancing connectivity, supporting global trade, and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a premier travel hub bridging East and West.
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