Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Georgia, Uzbekistan, and Armenia: Etihad Airways’ Exciting New Routes Boost Global Travel Opportunities – Travel And Tour World

Etihad Airways continues to bolster its growing international network by adding seven exciting new destinations. The UAE-based airline is set to launch flights to Almaty (Kazakhstan), Baku (Azerbaijan), Bucharest (Romania), Medina (Saudi Arabia), Tbilisi (Georgia), Tashkent (Uzbekistan), and Yerevan (Armenia), marking a significant expansion of its route network. This strategic move is designed to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s status as a key hub for travel, commerce, and culture.

The new routes are part of Etihad’s long-term goal to bring more point-to-point traffic to Abu Dhabi, enriching the city’s tourism and commercial landscape. The services are scheduled to start in March 2026, with Medina kicking off earlier in November 2025. This brings the total number of new destinations added by Etihad in 2025 to 27, reflecting the airline’s ambitious plans for growth.

A Growing Network Connecting Abu Dhabi to the World

Etihad Airways’ expansion reflects a broader strategy of connecting Abu Dhabi to regions that are fast growing in terms of tourism and trade. These new destinations will not only open direct routes from Abu Dhabi to important cultural and economic centers but will also offer travelers new opportunities to explore unique destinations with rich histories and vibrant cultures.

Newly Added Destinations Include:

• Almaty, Kazakhstan – A dynamic city known for its natural beauty and gateway to Central Asia.
• Baku, Azerbaijan – A modern, cosmopolitan city with rich history and cultural landmarks.
• Bucharest, Romania – A historic city blending medieval architecture with modern urban life.
• Medina, Saudi Arabia – A spiritual destination, drawing millions of visitors for its religious significance.
• Tbilisi, Georgia – A city filled with charming streets, stunning architecture, and a burgeoning wine industry.
• Tashkent, Uzbekistan – A city with a fascinating mix of Soviet-era buildings and ancient Islamic architecture.
• Yerevan, Armenia – A vibrant cultural hub rich in history and home to significant archaeological sites.

Strengthening Abu Dhabi’s Role as a Global Hub

Etihad Airways’ commitment to expanding its network reflects Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become one of the world’s leading hubs for both leisure and business travel. By adding these diverse and culturally rich destinations to its portfolio, Etihad is connecting Abu Dhabi to regions that are both historically significant and rapidly developing.

Benefits for Travelers:

• Seamless Connections: With these new routes, travelers can enjoy smooth connections to Abu Dhabi and beyond, experiencing the UAE’s vibrant cultural scene and world-class hospitality.
• Business Opportunities: The expansion also opens up new business and trade possibilities, connecting Abu Dhabi with key economic regions in Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
• Tourism Growth: These additions will help drive tourism to Abu Dhabi, allowing travelers to explore a blend of contemporary and traditional attractions in the UAE’s capital.

The Significance of Each New Destination

The new destinations were carefully chosen for their potential to enhance both tourism and trade flows into Abu Dhabi. Here’s a closer look at what makes each location unique:

1. Almaty, Kazakhstan: As the largest city in Kazakhstan, Almaty is a key economic and cultural center in Central Asia. Known for its stunning mountain backdrop, the city attracts outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and business travelers alike.
2. Baku, Azerbaijan: Baku is one of the most modern cities in the Caucasus, with a stunning blend of old-world charm and contemporary architecture. It is known for its rich history, museums, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
3. Bucharest, Romania: The Romanian capital is a mix of old and new, with a vibrant cultural scene, historical landmarks, and a thriving food and wine culture. It’s a city on the rise, perfect for both leisure tourists and business travelers.
4. Medina, Saudi Arabia: As one of Islam’s holiest cities, Medina attracts millions of religious tourists annually. Its spiritual significance makes it a key destination for Muslim travelers, with direct flights to Abu Dhabi making the journey more convenient than ever.
5. Tbilisi, Georgia: This charming city is known for its picturesque streets, ancient fortresses, and hospitable locals. Tbilisi is gaining recognition as a growing European destination, offering travelers a unique mix of history and modernity.
6. Tashkent, Uzbekistan: Tashkent is a major historical and cultural center in Central Asia, known for its ancient monuments, bustling markets, and rich Islamic heritage. The city is also a key stop on the Silk Road, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
7. Yerevan, Armenia: As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Yerevan offers a wealth of historical sites, vibrant art scenes, and stunning views of Mount Ararat. It is also a gateway to exploring Armenia’s mountainous landscapes and cultural heritage.

When Will the Routes Launch?

• Medina (Saudi Arabia): November 2025
• Other Six Destinations (Almaty, Baku, Bucharest, Tbilisi, Tashkent, Yerevan): March 2026

Etihad’s Expanding Global Footprint

Etihad Airways is no stranger to route expansion, and these new destinations are part of its broader strategy to meet the increasing demand for direct air travel between Abu Dhabi and key international cities. The airline continues to enhance its offerings by focusing on connecting travelers to regions that are seeing rapid economic growth.

Year of Expansion: 2025

This year alone, Etihad has announced or started operations for 27 new routes, a milestone that showcases the airline’s dedication to providing passengers with more travel options. From the modern vibrancy of Baku to the ancient wonders of Medina, Etihad’s new destinations will cater to diverse traveler interests, whether they’re seeking history, culture, business, or leisure.

Conclusion

The addition of these seven new destinations represents a significant leap forward for Etihad Airways, cementing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for tourism, trade, and culture. Whether it’s the rich historical significance of Medina or the modern flair of Almaty and Baku, these routes cater to diverse travelers, offering something for everyone. For those looking to explore new corners of the world while experiencing seamless service and connectivity, Etihad Airways remains a top choice.

With services starting in 2025 and 2026, this expansion further strengthens the airline’s commitment to growth and enhancing the traveler experience, ensuring Abu Dhabi remains at the heart of global connectivity.