Etihad unlocks Uzbekistan with new codeshare linking 8 cities via Tashkent
Daily Abu Dhabi-Tashkent flights begin this August
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways is widening its footprint across Central Asia through a new codeshare agreement with Uzbekistan Airways, giving travellers streamlined access to some of Uzbekistan’s most historic and rapidly growing destinations.
The partnership opens the door to easier travel across the region through a single-ticket booking system and expanded route connections.
The agreement officially takes effect on 15 May 2026, while the first codeshare flights under the partnership will begin operating from 9 August. The launch also aligns with Etihad’s new daily Abu Dhabi-Tashkent service, set to commence on 9 August 2026, creating a stronger air corridor between the UAE and Central Asia.
Under the agreement, passengers booking with Etihad will gain access to eight destinations across Uzbekistan via Tashkent on a single itinerary. These include Samarkand, Urgench, Nukus, Termez, Fergana, Namangan, Andizhan and Bukhara, alongside selected international routes operated by Uzbekistan Airways.
Silk Road
The move comes as Uzbekistan continues to emerge as one of Central Asia’s fastest-growing inbound travel markets. The country’s appeal stretches from the ancient Silk Road landmarks of Samarkand and Bukhara to Khiva’s medieval architecture and the vast landscapes of Karakalpakstan.
Tashkent, the region’s largest city, has increasingly become an important economic and cultural hub, with stronger international links creating new opportunities for tourism and business growth.
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, said the airline had seen strong demand for easier travel options within Uzbekistan.
“Uzbekistan is one of the most exciting markets in our network right now, and this agreement gives our guests something they’ve been asking for: easy access to eight Uzbek cities on a single ticket while offering direct service to our beautiful home in Abu Dhabi,” he said.
He added that Uzbekistan Airways’ fleet growth and network expansion made it a strong partner for future collaboration.
Wider reach
Passengers travelling with Uzbekistan Airways will also benefit from the partnership through easier access to Abu Dhabi using Etihad’s new daily service from Tashkent. The Uzbek carrier currently operates daily flights between Tashkent and Dubai, with the Abu Dhabi addition expected to further strengthen links between Uzbekistan and the UAE.
Shukhrat Yadgarov, Deputy Chairman of the Board for Commerce and Tourism at Uzbekistan Airways JSC, described the agreement as a strategic milestone in expanding the airline’s international reach.
He said the partnership would create stronger connections between the two countries while supporting tourism growth, cultural exchange and commercial relations.
The collaboration also extends beyond route access. Etihad and Uzbekistan Airways are working on a future frequent flyer partnership between Etihad Guest and UzAirPlus, which is expected to offer broader rewards and redemption opportunities for members.
With Uzbekistan Airways joining its network, Etihad now operates 46 codeshare agreements and more than 130 interline partnerships. The carrier says this makes it the largest partner network among non-alliance airlines, giving travellers single-ticket and through-fare access to more than 350 destinations worldwide.
Bookings under the new agreement are now available through Etihad and Uzbekistan Airways channels.