In an exciting move for travelers and the aviation industry alike, Etihad Airways has announced the launch of four new international routes in 2025. The airline, which continues to expand its global network, has introduced services to Tunis, Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and Hong Kong, marking a key milestone in its strongest year of expansion yet. With these new routes, Etihad Airways will account for nearly 45% of the UAE’s total aviation growth in 2025, significantly strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a global travel hub.

New Destinations to Explore: More Choices for Travelers

The four new routes bring additional travel options to Abu Dhabi, catering to both business and leisure travelers. These new services are designed to enhance tourism, trade, and connectivity between the UAE and key regions across Africa and Asia. Let’s take a look at what these new destinations offer to travelers:

• Tunis, Tunisia: Launching on November 1, 2025, this new route will operate three times a week, expanding Etihad’s presence in North Africa. The direct connection between Abu Dhabi and Tunis aims to meet the rising demand for travel between the UAE and Tunisia, which is becoming an increasingly popular destination for both tourism and business.
• Hanoi, Vietnam: On November 2, 2025, Etihad will begin operating six weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital. This new service is the first direct flight between the two cities, enhancing not just tourism but also fostering stronger trade ties between the UAE and Vietnam.
• Chiang Mai, Thailand: Starting on November 3, 2025, Etihad will introduce four weekly flights to Chiang Mai, opening up northern Thailand to travelers from the Middle East and Europe. Chiang Mai, known for its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere, offers a unique experience for tourists seeking an alternative to Thailand’s busy southern resorts.
• Hong Kong, China: Also launching on November 3, 2025, this service will operate five times a week, restoring direct flights to one of Asia’s key financial and tourism hubs. Etihad has also renewed its codeshare agreement with Hong Kong Airlines, improving regional connectivity and offering passengers more seamless travel options.

Boosting Abu Dhabi as a Global Travel Hub

With the addition of these four routes, Etihad Airways is reinforcing its commitment to turning Abu Dhabi into a key global gateway for travelers. The UAE capital already enjoys a strategic position as a stopover hub, with this expansion adding even more reasons for tourists to visit. Not only will it give passengers more direct flight options, but it will also showcase Abu Dhabi’s diverse attractions, from its stunning modern architecture to its rich cultural heritage.

Etihad’s CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, emphasized that these new destinations reflect the diversity and ambition of the airline’s growing network. He added, “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.”

A Boost for Tourism and Trade

The introduction of these new routes will not only benefit international tourists visiting Abu Dhabi, but also boost inbound tourism to the UAE. Etihad’s expanding network brings new opportunities for travelers to explore the UAE’s capital and beyond. For UAE residents, the expanded flight network provides more convenient access to Asia and Africa, making it easier to travel for both business and leisure.

Additionally, the new services are expected to boost trade between the UAE and these regions, further enhancing Abu Dhabi’s role in the global market. The airline’s ability to connect these destinations with Abu Dhabi means increased business exchanges and growing economic opportunities, which is great news for travelers looking for more than just a holiday destination.

Etihad Airways and the UAE Aviation Sector

Etihad Airways’ expansion is a significant contributor to the UAE’s aviation industry, which has witnessed rapid growth in recent years. The new services come as part of the airline’s broader efforts to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub for air travel and commerce.

With these new routes, Etihad’s global network now spans over 85 destinations, providing travelers with more choices and access to some of the most popular cities and regions worldwide. As one of the UAE’s leading airlines, Etihad continues to play a crucial role in the country’s growing tourism sector and its ambitions to become a global leader in aviation.

Conclusion: Etihad’s Growth and Abu Dhabi’s Future

As Etihad Airways launches these exciting new routes, it is clear that the airline is committed to expanding its global reach while strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a key player in the aviation industry. With more than 45% of the UAE’s aviation growth in 2025 expected to come from these new routes, Etihad’s contribution to tourism and trade in the region is undeniable.

For travelers, the new services to destinations like Tunis, Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and Hong Kong offer more options for exploring the world, while also showcasing Abu Dhabi’s growing prominence as a global hub for culture, business, and leisure. Whether you’re planning a holiday or a business trip, Etihad Airways’ new routes are sure to open up a world of possibilities.