Etihad Airways has launched four new routes to Tunis, Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and Hong Kong within three days, marking another step in its year of rapid expansion.
The additions strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub and contribute to nearly 45 percent of the UAE’s total aviation growth in 2025.
Expanding global network
The new flights connect Abu Dhabi with key destinations across North Africa and Asia, offering greater travel options for both leisure and business passengers. Etihad said the services also aim to make it easier for travellers from Africa and Asia to visit Abu Dhabi’s cultural and leisure attractions, while increasing connectivity for UAE residents.
Details of new routes
The Tunis route began on November 1 with three weekly flights, expanding Etihad’s reach in North Africa. Flights to Hanoi, operating six times a week from November 2, connect Abu Dhabi directly with Vietnam’s capital for the first time. The Chiang Mai service started on November 3 with four weekly flights, providing access to Northern Thailand, while the Hong Kong route, also launched on November 3, operates five times a week and coincides with the airline’s renewed codeshare partnership with Hong Kong Airlines.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Each of these destinations adds its own character to our network – from Tunis’s heritage to Hanoi’s vibrancy, Chiang Mai’s charm and Hong Kong’s global energy. Together, they expand options for our guests while bringing more visitors to discover Abu Dhabi – one of the world’s most exciting cities. As we continue to deliver almost half of the UAE’s aviation growth this year, our focus remains on connecting more people, cultures, and opportunities through our home in Abu Dhabi.”
With the latest additions, Etihad’s network now covers more than 85 destinations worldwide. The airline said the expansion supports inbound tourism and trade, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role as a key link between Africa, Asia, and the wider world.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
