Etihad Airways Launches Direct Flights to Kabul, Expanding Regional Travel Opportunities
Etihad Airways will start direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Kabul on 18 December 2025. The airline will operate three weekly flights—on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—using its modern Airbus A320 aircraft.
This launch marks an important milestone in Etihad’s network growth and reinforces the airline’s commitment to connecting key destinations across South Asia and the Middle East.
Convenient Schedule and Enhanced Comfort
The flights will feature eight Business Class seats and 150 Economy seats, offering comfort and convenience for both business and leisure travelers. The schedule has been designed to provide smooth connections through Abu Dhabi to Etihad’s broader network across Europe, North America, and Australia.
Passengers traveling from Kabul will also benefit from efficient return options, ensuring flexibility for family visits, business trips, and tourism.
Strengthening Regional Ties
The United Arab Emirates is home to around 300,000 Afghan expatriates, many of whom travel frequently between the two countries. These new flights will make travel faster, easier, and more affordable.
Beyond personal connections, the route will promote trade, healthcare travel, and tourism, strengthening the growing partnership between the UAE and Afghanistan. Etihad expects strong demand from business communities and travelers seeking convenient international connections.
A Step Toward Broader Growth
Kabul joins a growing list of destinations added by Etihad in 2025 as part of its strategic expansion plan. The airline continues to rebuild and diversify its route map, introducing new destinations across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Travel experts believe this move could spark greater tourism and investment between the two nations. If passenger demand increases, Etihad may consider adding more frequencies or introducing larger aircraft on the route.
