UAE-Bangladesh travel: Etihad Airways launches Dhaka route with sold-out inaugural flight from Abu Dhabi
New service enhances travel and cargo links across key markets
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways has launched its new service to Dhaka, marking the start of a four-times-weekly connection between Abu Dhabi and the capital of Bangladesh.
The inaugural flight departed fully booked on 26th June, highlighting strong demand for travel between the UAE and Bangladesh. The new route also adds greater cargo capacity between the two markets, supporting trade links and logistics flows across South Asia.
EY382 departed Abu Dhabi at 22:00 on 26 June aboard a Boeing 777 aircraft and arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka the following morning. The widebody aircraft serving the route features 28 lie-flat Business seats and 374 Economy seats, while its belly-hold capacity provides additional support for cargo operations.
Etihad network
The launch strengthens Etihad’s network across South Asia while providing a direct connection for communities, businesses and travellers between the two countries. The UAE is home to one of the world’s largest Bangladeshi communities, and the new service offers increased connectivity for families, professionals and the wider Bangladeshi diaspora travelling through Abu Dhabi to destinations across the GCC, North America and the UK.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways, said the fully booked first flight reflected the strong relationship between the UAE and Bangladesh, along with continued demand across both passenger and cargo segments.
The route also supports Bangladesh’s important garment and textile industry, which relies heavily on international trade networks. With increased widebody capacity, exporters gain additional access to markets across the Middle East, Europe and North America through Abu Dhabi, which continues to serve as a key connecting point within Etihad’s expanding global network.
Travel options
Passengers travelling through Abu Dhabi can also use Etihad’s stopover programme, allowing them to include a stay in the UAE capital before continuing their journey. The programme gives visitors the opportunity to explore attractions including Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi and the recently opened Zayed National Museum, along with the city’s beaches, dining destinations and waterfront experiences.
The addition of Dhaka further expands Etihad’s presence in South Asia, following the airline’s continued network growth across the region. The service provides travellers with another route into Abu Dhabi while strengthening links between South Asian communities and global destinations connected through the airline’s network.
Flights on the new route are now available for booking through Etihad Airways.