Abu Dhabi Soars Higher as Etihad Airways Launches Direct Flights to Tunis, Vietnam, Thailand and Hong Kong to Boost Tourism and International Connectivity

Etihad Airways strengthens Abu Dhabi’s global reach with new routes to Tunis, Vietnam, Thailand, and Hong Kong, boosting tourism, trade, and cultural exchange while enhancing international connectivity.

Etihad Airways has set another benchmark in its ongoing growth journey, unveiling four major new routes from Abu Dhabi to Tunis, Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and Hong Kong within just three consecutive days. This impressive expansion marks a significant chapter in the airline’s record-breaking year, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s standing as a world-class hub for air connectivity, tourism, and trade. The launch also underlines Etihad’s contribution to nearly 45% of the UAE’s total aviation growth this year — a testament to its ambitious network development and strategic global partnerships.

Expanding Horizons Across Continents

Etihad’s latest expansion connects the UAE capital with four dynamic destinations across North Africa and Asia, creating new bridges for travellers, businesses, and tourism boards. The new flights add thousands of additional seats to and from Abu Dhabi every week, inviting more travellers from Africa and Asia to experience the city’s architectural marvels, pristine coastline, luxury resorts, and vibrant cultural calendar.

The airline’s latest network additions not only enhance inbound tourism but also provide UAE residents and visitors with greater travel flexibility to key international destinations for leisure, business, and cultural exchange.

Strengthening Global Connectivity

Tunis – Bridging the UAE and North Africa
Commencing on 1 November 2025, Etihad now operates three weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Tunis. The new connection strengthens Etihad’s North African network, catering to the rising demand for travel between the UAE and Tunisia. Tunis, known for its Mediterranean charm and historical treasures, is now more accessible than ever for UAE travellers.

Hanoi – Linking Abu Dhabi and Vietnam’s Capital
On 2 November 2025, Etihad inaugurated six weekly flights to Hanoi, creating the first-ever direct link between Abu Dhabi and Vietnam’s capital city. This route deepens economic and tourism ties between the UAE and Vietnam, promoting trade, investment, and cultural collaboration. Hanoi’s growing reputation as a tourism and business hub aligns perfectly with Etihad’s strategic expansion into emerging Asian markets.

Chiang Mai – Opening Northern Thailand to the Middle East
Launched on 3 November 2025, Etihad’s four weekly flights to Chiang Mai connect travellers from the Middle East and Europe to one of Thailand’s most enchanting regions. This service offers seamless access to Northern Thailand’s cultural landmarks, scenic mountain ranges, and world-renowned hospitality. It also enhances Abu Dhabi’s status as a stopover destination linking East and West.

Hong Kong – Reconnecting with Asia’s Premier Business Centre
Etihad’s new five weekly flights to Hong Kong, also beginning on 3 November 2025, mark a significant return to one of Asia’s most influential financial and leisure hubs. The route coincides with the relaunch of Etihad’s codeshare agreement with Hong Kong Airlines, delivering enhanced connectivity across Asia. This collaboration expands travel options for passengers heading to cities across mainland China, Japan, and Southeast Asia through coordinated schedules and integrated services.

Driving Abu Dhabi’s Aviation Ambitions

Etihad’s latest route additions are aligned with Abu Dhabi’s broader vision to position itself as a central aviation hub connecting East and West. The expansion supports the emirate’s tourism and economic goals by attracting visitors, facilitating international business, and increasing trade flow.

Each new destination has been carefully chosen to complement Etihad’s growing network and deliver diverse options for travellers — from exploring ancient cities in Tunisia and Vietnam to discovering nature-rich escapes in Thailand or conducting business in Hong Kong’s dynamic metropolis.

The new flight schedules also reflect Etihad’s strategic approach to optimize aircraft utilization, offering passengers flexible flight timings and smooth transit connections through Abu Dhabi International Airport. The deployment of Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A321LR aircraft ensures passengers enjoy comfort, efficiency, and reduced environmental impact during their journeys.

Etihad’s Vision for Global Expansion

As the airline continues to expand its global footprint, these new routes demonstrate Etihad’s commitment to innovation, customer experience, and sustainable growth. The expansion highlights how the carrier is not just connecting destinations — but also connecting cultures, economies, and opportunities across continents.

By adding routes across North Africa and Asia, Etihad is strategically enhancing Abu Dhabi’s role as a global gateway and reaffirming its mission to deliver world-class connectivity that fuels economic and tourism development throughout the UAE and beyond.

Flight Details Overview

Abu Dhabi – Tunis (from 1 November 2025)

• Frequency: 3 weekly (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday)
• Aircraft: Airbus A321LR
• Departure: 02:20 from Abu Dhabi, arriving Tunis 06:20
• Return: 10:40 from Tunis, arriving Abu Dhabi 19:25

Abu Dhabi – Hanoi (from 2 November 2025)

• Frequency: 6 weekly
• Aircraft: Boeing 787 Dreamliner
• Sample Departures: 09:05 and 20:50 from Abu Dhabi, with return flights from Hanoi at 20:00 and 07:40 on select days

Abu Dhabi – Chiang Mai (from 3 November 2025)

• Frequency: 4 weekly
• Aircraft: Airbus A321LR
• Departure: 21:20 from Abu Dhabi, arriving Chiang Mai 06:05
• Return: 08:50 from Chiang Mai, arriving Abu Dhabi 13:05

Abu Dhabi – Hong Kong (from 3 November 2025)

• Frequency: 5 weekly
• Aircraft: Boeing 787 Dreamliner
• Departure: 21:15 from Abu Dhabi, arriving Hong Kong 08:30
• Return: 19:35 from Hong Kong, arriving Abu Dhabi 00:25 (+1)

Etihad Airways’ newest additions represent more than just expanded flight options — they embody the spirit of global connectivity and innovation that continues to define the UAE’s aviation success story.

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