Etihad resumes flights to Nairobi with focus on broader African expansion
As a major economic hub in East Africa, Kenya is expected to benefit significantly from the resumption of Etihad flights.
In a significant development for regional aviation and trade, Etihad Airways officially resumed flights to Nairobi on December 15.
Beyond reconnecting Abu Dhabi to Nairobi, the move signals the airline's broader strategic focus on Africa as a key growth market.
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In a statement, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) noted that the move enhances connectivity between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kenya.
"We are delighted to announce that Etihad has officially resumed flights to Nairobi, significantly enhancing the connectivity between the UAE and Kenya," KAA said.
The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) marked the return of Etihad Airways flights from Abu Dhabi to Nairobi with a grand evening cocktail event at the JW Marriott Hotel in Nairobi on Monday.
The occasion brought together key stakeholders, including travel agents, investors, and government officials, led by Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua.
KATA Vice Chairperson Hamisi Hassan welcomed Etihad Airways back to Kenya, highlighting the significant opportunity this presents for travel agents to connect clients to new and exciting destinations in the Middle East.
The UAE Ambassador to Kenya Salim Ibrahim Bin Ahmed Mohammed Alnaqbi emphasised the importance of the strengthened ties between the two nations and the critical role these flights play in boosting trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Increased trade flows
As a major economic hub in East Africa, Kenya is expected to benefit significantly from the resumption of Etihad flights.
Enhanced connectivity with the UAE creates a gateway for increased trade flows, investment opportunities and tourism.
With four weekly non-stop flights between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi, the airline will cater to business travellers, tourists, and cargo services, further strengthening bilateral economic ties.
"The resumption of these flights will provide enhanced access to Kenya's thriving tourism market, further unlocking opportunities for both inbound and outbound travellers, said Etihad's Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer Arik De.
"We recently announced ten new global destinations and aim to add at least ten more each year as we grow toward 2030," Arik said.
He said sustainability is the cornerstone of the airline's growth strategy, ensuring operations align with evolving market demands and environmental goals.
Vital economic boost
CS Mutua celebrated this milestone as a vital economic boost, highlighting the increased connectivity from recent entries of Brussels Airlines, Zambia Airlines, and AirAsia into Kenya's aviation sector.
The resumption of Etihad Airways flights to Nairobi marks a new chapter in UAE-Kenya relations, with far-reaching implications for connectivity, trade, and tourism.
As the airline doubles its African footprint, Kenya expects to capitalise on its position as a key regional gateway, connecting travellers and businesses to a world of opportunities.
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