Etihad Airways to resume direct Abu Dhabi–Zanzibar flights in June 2026
According to the airline, the relaunch aligns with its broader European network, now providing several double-daily connections via Abu Dhabi.
Etihad Airways has announced the relaunch of direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Zanzibar next year, reconnecting the popular tourist destination with the Middle East.
In a statement, the Abu Dhabi airline said it will run four flights per week between June 14 and September 6, deploying Airbus A320 planes with eight business class and 150 economy seats.
More To Read
- Zanzibar opposition alleges voter fraud ahead of elections
- Uganda, Sudan, Somalia among countries hit by UAE tourist and work visa ban
- 2026 UAE visa ban: List of affected countries
- Kenya balances Quad backing with call for Africa-led peace talks to end Sudan conflict
- Zanzibar president urges peaceful campaigns, outlines development priorities
- US, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Egypt call for Sudan truce
The flights will depart Abu Dhabi at 9:10 am, arriving in Zanzibar at 1:50 pm with the return service leaving Zanzibar at 5:50 pm and reaching Abu Dhabi at 12:30 am, the following day.
The route will operate four times a week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, with tickets available for booking on the Emirates online platform.
According to the airline, the relaunch aligns with its broader European network, now providing several double-daily connections via Abu Dhabi.
"With two major European banks creating efficient connections in both directions, Zanzibar is now more accessible than ever for guests from Europe and the GCC region," the airline said.
"The seasonal service taps into strong summer demand and complements Etihad's growing global network."
The route is expected to boost tourism and commerce between Zanzibar, the Gulf and Europe, further establishing the island as a key regional air hub following recent route launches by Qatar Airways, Flydubai and Oman Air.
"Zanzibar is the perfect summer escape. From world-famous beaches and spice markets to rich history and culture, the island has something for everyone. We know it's a destination our guests have been eager to see return, and we can't wait to connect them to this unique island paradise," Etihad Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said.
Zanzibar, renowned for its UNESCO-listed Stone Town, spice plantations, and pristine beaches, also serves as a gateway to East Africa's safari circuit, offering easy access to destinations like Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro.
The Abu Dhabi-Zanzibar service marks Etihad's 30th new destination announced this year. It follows the airline's recent launch of flights to Palma de Mallorca, Spain, set to begin June 12, 2026, running three times a week through mid-September.
The Palma route will be the only direct link between Asia and Mallorca, providing travellers with new connections to Ibiza and the broader Mediterranean region.
Top Stories Today
