Published on
November 10, 2025
Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, is taking bold steps to expand its international network. The airline has announced new flight routes connecting Abu Dhabi with some of the most sought-after destinations in Asia and Africa. This move not only enhances the UAE’s status as a global aviation hub but also opens up new travel opportunities for passengers from around the world.
Connecting Abu Dhabi to Asia
With its new services, Etihad Airways is expanding its reach into Asia with three new destinations: Hong Kong, Chiang Mai, and Hanoi. These new routes will give travelers in North and Southeast Asia better access to Abu Dhabi, facilitating both tourism and business travel. Here’s what travelers can expect from the new routes:
Hong Kong: A Key Hub in Asia
Starting on November 3, Etihad will launch five weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong. This iconic destination, known for its vibrant culture and dynamic cityscape, is now even more accessible for travelers flying in from the UAE.
- Flight Details:
- Departure from Abu Dhabi (EY870): 9:15 AM
- Arrival in Hong Kong: 8:30 PM
- Return Flight (EY871): Departs Hong Kong at 7:35 PM, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 12:25 AM the next day.
For travelers seeking a gateway to both business and leisure, Hong Kong’s bustling streets, renowned shopping, and stunning harbour views offer an unforgettable travel experience.
Chiang Mai: Thailand’s Cultural Gem
In another exciting development, Chiang Mai, one of Thailand’s most iconic cultural destinations, will be added to Etihad’s roster. Beginning November 3, Etihad will operate four weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Chiang Mai, a city known for its stunning temples, lush landscapes, and vibrant festivals.
- Flight Details:
- Departure from Abu Dhabi (EY426): 9:20 PM
- Arrival in Chiang Mai: 6:05 PM
- Return Flight (EY427): Departs Chiang Mai at 8:50 AM, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 1:05 PM.
Chiang Mai’s rich history and scenic beauty make it a must-visit for travelers seeking a mix of culture and nature.
Hanoi: Vietnam’s Capital of Charm
For those looking to explore Vietnam, Etihad Airways will launch six weekly flights to Hanoi from November 2. The capital city is known for its vibrant street markets, stunning lakes, and French colonial architecture, making it a favourite destination for tourists seeking history and modernity combined.
- Flight Details:
- Departure from Abu Dhabi (EY430): 9:05 AM
- Arrival in Hanoi: 6:10 PM
- Return Flight (EY431): Departs Hanoi at 8:00 PM, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 12:35 AM the next day.
New Route to Africa: Tunis, Tunisia
The expansion doesn’t stop with Asia. Etihad Airways is also increasing its African footprint with a new route to Tunis, Tunisia. Starting on November 1, Etihad will operate three weekly flights to the capital of Tunisia, further enhancing travel connectivity between Africa and the Middle East.
- Flight Details:
- Departure from Abu Dhabi (EY739): 2:20 PM
- Arrival in Tunis: 6:20 PM
- Return Flight (EY431): Departs Tunis at 10:40 AM, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 7:25 PM.
Tunis, with its Mediterranean charm, offers a blend of ancient ruins, rich history, and vibrant markets, making it an attractive destination for both cultural enthusiasts and leisure travelers.
Why This Expansion Matters for Travelers
This network expansion is a significant boost for global travelers, offering more convenience and flexibility in travel options. Whether you’re flying from Asia to Abu Dhabi or heading to Africa, Etihad’s new routes make it easier to experience the cultural wonders, modern amenities, and dynamic landscapes of these regions.
For travelers, these new routes represent greater connectivity, with Abu Dhabi as the central hub for seamless connections to destinations around the world. Etihad Airways has long been committed to providing passengers with superior service, and these fresh routes further solidify the airline’s reputation as a global leader in aviation.
The Impact on UAE’s Tourism and Business
The expansion of Etihad’s network is also expected to have a positive impact on the UAE’s tourism industry. With more travelers arriving from Hong Kong, Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and Tunis, Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector stands to benefit greatly. In addition, these new routes will provide additional trade and business opportunities, especially between the UAE and these emerging markets in Asia and Africa.
The Future of Travel with Etihad Airways
Looking ahead, Etihad Airways is not only expanding its network to key cities but also investing in modernizing its fleet to offer passengers an even more comfortable and efficient flying experience. The airline’s commitment to quality ensures that travelers can look forward to an enhanced journey whether they are flying for business or leisure.
