Etihad Airways Adds New Routes On Its Africa Network & These Are…

Etihad Airways, which is an Abu Dhabi-based airline, recently announced its significant expansion plan. Yes, the significant expansion will be on its African network, where it announced that it would be adding new routes. These would be to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and Eritrea. Here’s all you need to know about this travel-related development from the Abu Dhabi-based airline.

Etihad Airways Adds New Routes In Africa

With the expansion directly building on the Etihad’s recently announced China growth, it is now planning to add new routes to its African network. Positioning Abu Dhabi as a key gateway between Africa, India and Asia, this would enable a more efficient movement of people and goods between the fastest growing regions of the world.

As it happens, this move also aligns with the growing economic ties between the UAE and Africa. Additionally, the strategic joint venture with Ethiopian Airlines further strengthens connectivity across the African subcontinent. These new services would directly link African markets and Abu Dhabi. Not to mention it would also enable one-stop connection to China, India and across Asia through the Middle East.

The Airline Earlines Announced New China Routes As Well

Just a few days ago, Etihad Airways also announced that it would be enhancing its presence in China with five new routes. Complete with 28 additional weekly flights, the expansion would increase the airline’s mainland China operations to 35 weekly flights. The flights would connect Abu Dhabi to the cities of Shanghai, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. Not to mention, the services are expected to be rolled out between October 2026 and March 2027.

Also Read: You Can Explore Zayed International Airport Without Boarding A Flight For Ltd Period; Here’s How

The Airline Carried 22.4 million travellers in 2025

It should be noted that all new routes will be integrated into the joint venture of the airline with China Eastern Airlines. At the moment, China Eastern operates routes which link Shanghai, Kunming and Xi’an with the UAE.
Just at the start of the year, Etihad Airways had revealed the highest passenger numbers in its history. It mentioned how it carried 22.4 million travellers in 2025, which showcases its strong demand for Abu Dhabi. Moreover, the surge also meant more destinations, higher frequencies and your aircraft across the airline’s network. The passenger numbers also rose 21% year-on-year.

So, with the airline now adding new routes in Africa, one can expect that it’s bound to make connectivity even better.

Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/etihad