In a significant step toward reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s status as a major international aviation hub, Etihad Airways has launched four new routes connecting the UAE capital to key cities across Africa and Asia. The new services to Tunis (Tunisia), Hanoi (Vietnam), Chiang Mai (Thailand), and Hong Kong mark a strategic expansion of Etihad’s network, now encompassing over eighty-five destinations worldwide. These additions are designed to facilitate greater tourism, trade, and business opportunities, contributing substantially to the UAE’s overall aviation growth, estimated at nearly forty-five percent in 2025.

These route launches demonstrate Etihad’s commitment to enhancing connectivity for passengers traveling between Abu Dhabi and important emerging markets in North Africa and Asia, while also offering residents of the UAE enriched options for leisure and business travel. The introduction of these flights complements Abu Dhabi’s vision to solidify its role as a global gateway and regional economic driver.

New Flight Routes Enhance Abu Dhabi’s Global Connectivity

Starting November 1, Etihad began operating thrice-weekly flights to Tunis using an Airbus A321LR. This service strengthens ties with North Africa, providing increased access between the UAE and Tunisia’s historic capital. The route is expected to foster cultural exchange and tourism growth, as well as facilitate business travel in this strategic region.

On November 2, Etihad launched six weekly flights to Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital city, employing Boeing 787 Dreamliners. This represents the airline’s first direct service to Hanoi, opening new opportunities for commerce and visitor traffic between Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Following closely on November 3, four weekly flights commenced to Chiang Mai, northern Thailand’s cultural hub, also operated with Airbus A321LR aircraft. This new link connects travelers seeking diverse Asian experiences with Abu Dhabi, making Northern Thailand more accessible than ever before.

Also on November 3, Etihad resumed five weekly services to Hong Kong, flying Boeing 787s, while reinstating its codeshare partnership with Hong Kong Airlines. This collaboration enhances onward connectivity throughout Asia, benefiting passengers with seamless transfers and expanded destination options.

Strategic Importance for Tourism and Economic Growth

The launch of these routes supports the UAE’s robust aviation sector and contributes significantly to the broader economic ecosystem. Tourism officials anticipate that increased accessibility will spark demand from inbound tourists across Africa and Asia, showcasing Abu Dhabi’s expanding appeal as a destination and transit hub.

Trade and business links will also strengthen, with enhanced connections allowing for smoother logistics, frequent face-to-face meetings, and deeper economic engagement between connected markets. The presence of daily or near-daily flights on these routes underlines Etihad’s dedication to meeting evolving traveler needs and supporting sustainable growth.

Deploying Advanced Fleet and Service Innovation

Etihad’s utilization of modern, fuel-efficient aircraft such as the Airbus A321LR and Boeing 787 Dreamliner underscores its commitment to environmental responsibility and passenger comfort. These aircraft feature spacious cabins, cutting-edge technology, and industry-leading amenities to enhance in-flight experience on medium- and long-haul segments.

The airline’s service model emphasizes luxury, personalized hospitality, and seamless integration with the broader Abu Dhabi airport ecosystem, enabling travelers to transition smoothly between flights, lounges, and ground transportation. This comprehensive approach reflects Dubai’s ambition to become not only a global transport hub but also a premier leisure and business destination.

Future Outlook and Route Network Expansion

The recent network growth to include Tunis, Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and Hong Kong is part of a wider Etihad strategy set to further expand its presence in emerging markets and reinforce its competitive position on the global aviation stage. The airline plans to continue enhancing intercontinental connectivity, leveraging Abu Dhabi’s location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Looking ahead, these routes will likely attract increasing passenger volumes as connections improve with partner airlines and as infrastructure investments around Abu Dhabi International Airport advance. This network diversification aligns with industry forecasts projecting sustained growth in Middle Eastern aviation fueled by tourism, global business recovery, and evolving travel habits.

Image Credit: Etihad Airways