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In a bold move that underscores its global ambitions, Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has unveiled ten new destinations daily, marking a historic moment in the airline industry. This expansion, slated to begin in 2025, reflects the airline’s commitment to strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier global hub for tourism, business, and cultural exchange.

A Game-Changing Expansion

For the first time, Etihad will connect travellers to an eclectic mix of destinations, including Algiers, Atlanta, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Krabi, Phnom Penh, Taipei, Tunis, Medan, and Hong Kong. This monumental announcement not only broadens Etihad’s network but also caters to its guests’ diverse travel aspirations.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, described the expansion as a reflection of the airline’s customer-first philosophy:

“This is more than a network expansion; it’s about creating meaningful connections. These routes embody the adventures, opportunities, and experiences our guests value most. Abu Dhabi will now welcome even more global travelers, showcasing its incredible hospitality, culture, and attractions.”

Boosting Abu Dhabi’s Global Appeal

The ten new routes complement Etihad’s previously announced destinations for 2025, including Prague, Warsaw, and Al Alamein. Together, they are set to attract tens of thousands of visitors to Abu Dhabi annually, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a world-class destination.

Etihad’s expansion aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to enhance its global connectivity, further supported by the state-of-the-art Zayed International Airport. The airport’s cutting-edge infrastructure and capacity to handle rapid growth are integral to ensuring seamless experiences for passengers.

Highlights of the New Destinations

Each destination adds unique value to Etihad’s network:

Algiers: A treasure trove of history and culture, blending Mediterranean charm with Islamic architecture.
Atlanta: A global hub for business and innovation, renowned for its Southern hospitality and dynamic cultural scene.
Chiang Mai: The cultural heartbeat of Thailand, surrounded by lush mountains and rich heritage.
Hanoi: Vietnam’s historic capital, offering a fusion of traditional and modern influences.
Hong Kong: A vibrant metropolis known for its iconic skyline and rich culinary diversity.
Krabi: A tropical paradise famed for its limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and adventure opportunities.
Medan: A gateway to Sumatra’s breathtaking natural wonders, including Lake Toba and orangutan sanctuaries.
Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s bustling capital, a blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy.
Taipei: A city of contrasts, where ancient temples meet cutting-edge architecture.
Tunis: The gateway to North Africa, offering a rich tapestry of history and culture, from its medina to the ruins of Carthage.

Supporting Tourism and Sustainability

Etihad’s innovative free stopover program, in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism—Abu Dhabi, provides travellers with a complimentary one—or two-night stay in select hotels. This initiative aims to encourage exploration of Abu Dhabi’s attractions, including its pristine beaches, exhilarating theme parks, and diverse culinary offerings.

Neves added:

“By 2025, we will serve over 90 destinations in more than 50 countries with a fleet exceeding 110 aircraft. Our vision is to bring over a million visitors to Abu Dhabi, enriching its cultural and economic fabric.”

Enhancing the Guest Experience

Etihad Guest, the airline’s award-winning loyalty program, is set to expand alongside the network. Travellers can look forward to earning and redeeming miles across a broader range of destinations, unlocking exclusive benefits tailored to their needs.

The Road Ahead

As Etihad accelerates its growth, this historic expansion underscores its commitment to shaping the future of aviation. With over 20 million guests expected to fly with the airline in 2025, Etihad is poised to redefine global travel standards while placing Abu Dhabi at the centre of the world map.