Ethiopian Airlines Launches Daily Passenger Flights to Abu Dhabi, Strengthening Ties with UAE

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier and one of the world’s fastest-growing airline brands, has commenced a new daily passenger service connecting Addis Ababa to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a significant expansion of its operations in the Gulf region.

The inaugural flight was celebrated at a colourful ceremony held at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, with key dignitaries in attendance.

Among those present were His Excellency Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa, Chairman of the Ethiopian Airlines Board; Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines; senior government officials from Ethiopia; representatives from the UAE Embassy in Addis Ababa; and airline executives.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Mesfin Tasew highlighted the significance of the new route, stating: “The launch of our new service to Abu Dhabi reflects Ethiopian Airlines’ strategic commitment to connecting Africa with the world. Through our collaboration with Etihad Airways, we are creating more opportunities for trade, investment, and tourism between our nations while offering our passengers expanded choice and convenience. This partnership is a powerful example of what can be achieved when two national carriers come together to unlock mutual growth.”

The newly launched service to Abu Dhabi’s futuristic Zayed International Airport adds to Ethiopian Airlines’ robust presence in the Gulf region. The airline now operates over 100 weekly passenger flights to 13 destinations in the Middle East and Gulf, reinforcing its role as a major connector between Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

The new route follows the recent launch in June 2025 of a four-times-weekly service to Sharjah. Ethiopian Airlines now serves four airports in three major UAE cities — Dubai (via Dubai International Airport, DXB and Al Maktoum International Airport, DWC, for cargo), Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi — further enhancing its footprint in the Emirates.

This development is a direct result of a landmark joint venture agreement signed between Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Airways.

The agreement aims to bolster cooperation between the two national carriers, facilitating joint route development, expanding air connectivity between Ethiopia and the UAE, and enhancing links across their respective global networks.

Ethiopian Airlines, renowned for its service excellence and expansive network, reiterated its mission to bring Africa closer to the world.

The airline sees strategic partnerships such as the one with Etihad Airways as a key driver of mutual economic growth and improved passenger experience.

With the Abu Dhabi route now operational, Ethiopian Airlines continues to solidify its position as a gateway carrier for Africa, connecting the continent to major global cities through a combination of strategic vision, international cooperation, and operational excellence.