Zayed International Airport And Africa's Aviation Giant Ethiopian Airlines, Forge Direct Link To Abu Dhabi

Zayed International Airport (AUH) has welcomed the inaugural flight from Addis Ababa, operated by Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's largest and most awarded carrier. The arrival marks the launch of a strategic new route that enhances connectivity between the UAE and Africa's fast-growing capital cities.

The flight, which arrived in the early hours of July 16, was greeted with a special commemorative ceremony at AUH to celebrate the growing partnership between Abu Dhabi Airports and Africa's leading aviation group.

This new daily service reinforces Abu Dhabi's position as a global gateway, significantly extending its footprint in East Africa – a region of growing economic, cultural and strategic importance. Addis Ababa is home to the African Union and a hub for diplomacy, commerce, and aviation. It now serves as a key link in connecting Africa with the wider Middle East and Asia through Abu Dhabi.

Ethiopian Airlines serves more than 80 countries and over 145 destinations, including over 65 destinations in Africa in 2025, it was named 'Best Airline in Africa' by SKYTRAX at the 2025 World Airline Awards, receiving the prestigious recognition for the eighth consecutive year.

Operating daily, the new route caters to the growing demand for travel across Africa and the Middle East, and is a strategic addition to Ethiopian Airlines' expanding global network. It reflects a shared ambition to foster stronger ties between the UAE and Ethiopia, their two thriving capitals, and supports business, leisure, and diplomatic travel between both nations.

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