Etihad Airways expands African network with daily flights to Addis Ababa
New route opens fresh opportunities for tourism, trade and cultural exchange
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has inaugurated daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa, connecting Zayed International Airport (AUH) with Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD).
The inaugural flights operated at full capacity in both directions, reflecting the strong demand for travel between the two capitals and signalling a new chapter in Etihad’s African operations.
The launch also marks the formal start of Etihad’s landmark Joint Venture with Ethiopian Airlines, announced earlier this year. The partnership will see both national carriers operating daily services between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa, creating a twice-daily connection that strengthens ties between Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
Under this strategic collaboration, the airlines will coordinate schedules and jointly develop new routes, offering travellers greater flexibility and convenience. The agreement also includes plans for cooperation in loyalty programmes, training and cargo services, underscoring both airlines’ commitment to enhancing the overall travel experience.
Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves described the new route as “a bridge between two regions with expanding connections and growing economic relations”. He added that the partnership “redefines connectivity between Africa, the Middle East and Asia” and creates more opportunities for trade, tourism and cultural exchange.
Addis Ababa, we’ve landed ???????? Daily flights now live, connecting Ethiopia's capital of culture and coffee to the Middle East, Asia & beyond ???? #Etihad #BeyondBorders pic.twitter.com/aY7fFmWjGU
— Etihad Airways (@etihad) October 9, 2025
Through the joint venture, Etihad guests can now access more than 55 destinations across 33 African countries via Ethiopian Airlines’ hub in Addis Ababa. Meanwhile, Ethiopian Airlines customers gain access through Abu Dhabi to over 20 destinations across Asia, Australia and the Middle East.
The collaboration is designed to maximise network synergies, giving passengers a smoother, more connected journey while supporting the wider economic and diplomatic relations between the UAE and Ethiopia.
Discover Addis Ababa
Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, serves as both a gateway to Africa and one of its most influential cities. It is home to the African Union and numerous international organisations, attracting diplomats, business leaders and global travellers. The city offers a rich mix of history, culture and modern vibrancy.
Travellers can explore the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to the famous fossil “Lucy”, or visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, an architectural landmark of religious and historical importance. The Merkato, one of the world’s largest open-air markets, offers a sensory experience of Ethiopian life, while the Entoto Hills provide panoramic views over the city. Addis Ababa’s café culture, music and arts scene capture the heart of a nation that blends deep-rooted traditions with modern energy.
Expanding African footprint
The Addis Ababa launch is a key part of Etihad’s wider expansion strategy across Africa. The airline will increase flights to Nairobi to 14 weekly by December, while also enhancing services to Casablanca and Johannesburg. Its partnership with Air Seychelles continues to strengthen island connectivity in the Indian Ocean.
In North Africa, Etihad will introduce new routes to Tunis and Algiers next month, deepening its presence across the continent. These initiatives align with Etihad’s goal of establishing Abu Dhabi as a premier global hub that connects Africa, Asia, the Middle East and beyond.
The airline also plans to resume seasonal flights to Zanzibar in June 2026, expanding its leisure travel options in East Africa and reinforcing two-way connectivity between Abu Dhabi, Africa and Europe.
Global network
Addis Ababa becomes Etihad’s tenth new destination in 2025, part of a broader global growth strategy that includes 20 more routes set to launch later this year and into 2026. Each new destination builds on Etihad’s mission to connect people and cultures through Abu Dhabi, offering world-class service and seamless travel experiences.