Etihad Airways has announced the launch of a new twice-daily service between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa, marking the airline’s first route to Ethiopia.
The launch of the new route also marks the start of Etihad’s joint venture with Ethiopian Airlines, under which Ethiopian Airlines will likewise operate a twice-daily service from Addis Ababa to Abu Dhabi.
In addition, the two airlines will coordinate schedules and jointly develop routes, offering guests more choice and convenience while strengthening trade, tourism, and cultural links between Africa and the Middle East.
Through the joint venture, Etihad passengers can now reach more than 55 destinations across 33 African countries via Ethiopian’s hub in Addis Ababa, while Ethiopian Airlines passengers gain streamlined access through Abu Dhabi to over 20 destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
The agreement also paves the way for broader cooperation in areas such as loyalty programmes, training, and cargo, the two airlines said.
Addis Ababa is the tenth destination added to Etihad’s network in 2025, with 20 more routes scheduled to launch later this year and in 2026.
Today, as covered by Airline Economics, Kabul became the 31st new route to be announced by Etihad Airways this year.