Etihad Airways has launched its first non-stop flights between Abu Dhabi and Calgary, giving UAE travellers a direct link to western Canada and its popular natural attractions.
Abu Dhabi to Calgary flights
The inaugural flight, EY29, arrived at Calgary International Airport with all seats sold, marking the start of a new route connecting the UAE capital with Alberta’s largest city.
The service operates four times a week using Etihad’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Calgary is Etihad’s second destination in Canada, alongside Toronto, and its westernmost destination in the airline’s network.
The new route gives travellers from the UAE a direct option for reaching Calgary, while passengers arriving in Abu Dhabi can connect to destinations across the Gulf region, India, Asia and Africa through Etihad’s network.
What UAE travellers can explore in Calgary
Calgary offers access to some of Canada’s best-known outdoor destinations, including Banff and Jasper National Parks and the Canadian Rockies.
The city is also a business centre for Alberta, particularly in the energy sector, innovation and investment. The new air link is expected to support travel between the UAE and western Canada for tourism and business.
For Canadian visitors, the Abu Dhabi connection offers access to attractions including Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Saadiyat Island and Yas Island. Etihad’s stopover programme also gives passengers the option to spend time in the UAE capital as part of their journey.
Flights operated by Boeing 787 Dreamliner
Etihad is operating the route with its Boeing 787 Dreamliner, featuring Business and Economy cabins.
The service adds another direct connection between the UAE and Canada, complementing Etihad’s established flights to Toronto.
Airline and airport welcome new route
Etihad Airways chief executive Antonoaldo Neves said the route would create opportunities for travellers, businesses and communities in both regions.
“Some routes immediately feel significant, not simply because they connect two destinations, but because of the opportunities they create. Calgary is one of those routes.
“Today’s launch is a celebration of a new connection between three ambitious success stories. As the world’s fastest-growing airline, Etihad continues to invest in its future through network expansion, fleet growth and an unwavering focus on guest experience, underpinned by the ambition that has shaped both the airline’s evolution and Abu Dhabi’s rise as a global destination and gateway. Calgary shares that same forward-looking outlook, with a dynamic economy, growing international connections and a strong spirit of innovation. Together, they create a powerful new connection that opens opportunities for travellers, businesses, and communities on both sides.
“Whether guests are travelling for adventure in Canada, for business in Alberta’s dynamic economy, or to discover Abu Dhabi’s rich culture and attractions, we look forward to welcoming them with the warmth and care that define the Etihad experience and delivering an exceptional journey at every stage of their travels.
“Calgary represents an exciting new chapter in Etihad’s growth story. We are proud to mark this milestone alongside our partners and look forward to building a long-lasting connection between Western Canada, Abu Dhabi and the destinations across Etihad’s global growing network.”
Chris Dinsdale, president and CEO of Calgary Airports, said the new route would strengthen links between the two regions.
“Today, the distance between Calgary and Abu Dhabi feels a whole lot shorter,” said Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO, Calgary Airports. “With Etihad’s arrival at YYC, we’re creating a direct link between two dynamic regions as we open Calgary to the world and the world to Calgary. We’re proud to see this partnership take flight and even prouder to welcome Etihad’s first guests to Calgary.”
The launch also adds to efforts to strengthen tourism, trade and investment links between the UAE and Canada.
