UAE-Bangladesh travel: Etihad Airways launches Dhaka flights
Strong diaspora demand drives new South Asia connectivity
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways has announced the launch of a seasonal service to Dhaka, reinforcing air links between the UAE and Bangladesh while responding to sustained demand for both passenger travel and cargo movement.
The new route will operate four times a week from 26 June to 24 October 2026, connecting Abu Dhabi with Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. The move is expected to enhance trade flows across the South Asia corridor, positioning Abu Dhabi as a critical hub for global logistics and connectivity.
The airline’s latest expansion reflects broader efforts to rebuild and strategically grow its network, with capacity aligned to high-demand markets. Bangladesh, a rapidly expanding economy, remains a key focus due to its strong export sectors and sizeable diaspora presence in the UAE.
Dhaka service
The Dhaka service will be operated using Boeing 777 aircraft, configured with 28 Business and 374 Economy seats. In addition to passenger capacity, the widebody aircraft offers significant belly-hold space, enabling efficient transport of cargo across continents. This is particularly vital for industries reliant on timely shipments, including textiles and garments, which dominate Bangladesh’s export economy.
Hello, Dhaka! ????????✈️
— Etihad Airways (@etihad) April 8, 2026
Starting 26 June 2026, we're launching seasonal nonstop flights between Abu Dhabi and Dhaka.
Fly direct on board the Etihad 777 and discover Bangladesh, a destination close to the heart of one of the UAE's largest communities.
Book now at… pic.twitter.com/CUt2PmSPuE
Flights from Abu Dhabi will depart at 22:00, arriving in Dhaka at 04:50 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Return services will leave Dhaka at 21:35, landing in Abu Dhabi at 00:40 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are already available, with fares starting from $199 one-way.
Trade boost
The introduction of this route is expected to significantly strengthen cargo corridors between Bangladesh and international markets. With Abu Dhabi serving as a gateway, exporters will gain improved access to destinations across the Middle East, Europe and North America. The additional capacity is particularly important for Bangladesh’s garment sector, which plays a central role in global supply chains.
Etihad’s Chief Executive Officer, Antonoaldo Neves, described Dhaka as a strategically important market with consistent demand across both passenger and cargo segments. He noted that the deployment of widebody capacity allows the airline to support trade flows while maintaining efficient connectivity across its network.
The route is also expected to enhance business ties, supporting industries that rely on seamless logistics and frequent travel between the two regions.
Bangladeshi diaspora in UAE
Beyond trade, the service will cater to one of the world’s largest Bangladeshi diaspora communities residing in the UAE. The direct connection offers a convenient travel option for families, reducing transit times and improving overall accessibility.
Passengers travelling from Europe and North America, particularly from countries such as the United Kingdom and Italy, will benefit from smoother connections via Abu Dhabi. The route is designed to accommodate both point-to-point travellers and those connecting onwards, reinforcing the UAE capital’s role as a global transit hub.
Bangladesh’s continued economic growth, driven by its export-oriented industries, has contributed to rising demand for reliable air services. The addition of this seasonal route aligns with these trends, supporting both economic activity and personal travel needs during peak periods.