Etihad Airways celebrated the launch of its new service to Nairobi yesterday, marking the airline’s latest milestone in a remarkable year of network expansions. Operating through the state-of-the-art Zayed International Airport, the service creates a vital connection between the UAE’s capital and one of Africa’s most dynamic cities.
The Nairobi launch follows the successful introduction of services to nine other cities including Antalya, Bali, Boston, Jaipur, Kozhikode, Mykonos, Nice, Qassim and Thiruvananthapuram in 2024. Moreover, it comes at a significant time for Kenya’s tourism sector. With visitor numbers expected to reach 3 million in 2024 and targets of 5 million visitors in the coming years, Kenya’s tourism industry is on a strong growth trajectory.
“The introduction of our Nairobi service enhances our growing network while responding to strong travel demand between the UAE and Kenya, as demonstrated by today’s completely full inaugural flight,” said Arik De, chief revenue and commercial officer at Etihad Airways.
Abu Dhabi-Nairobi route to support tourism growth
The Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi-Nairobi route connects two destinations known for their distinctive offerings. Abu Dhabi welcomes visitors with its blend of modern attractions and rich heritage, from the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, alongside world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment venues.
Meanwhile, Nairobi, a leading East African business hub known as the “Green City in the Sun,” seamlessly combines its commercial strength with natural wonders. The city uniquely features Nairobi National Park within its boundaries, offers diverse cultural attractions including museums and art galleries, and serves as a gateway to Kenya’s world-renowned wildlife destinations.
“As both Abu Dhabi and Kenya experience remarkable tourism growth and set ambitious targets for the future, this route creates valuable opportunities for both destinations. The service strengthens the important ties between our regions, supporting Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub while providing enhanced access to Kenya’s thriving tourism market,” added De.
Read: Etihad Airways passenger traffic surges over 30 percent to 16.8 million by November 2024
Etihad Airways to add 13 new destinations
Looking ahead to 2025, Etihad Airways will continue its expansion with thirteen new destinations. Flights to Warsaw and Prague will launch in June; Al Alamein and Atlanta in July; Taipei in September; Medan, Phnom Penh, and Krabi in October; and Tunis, Chiang Mai, Hong Kong, Hanoi, and Algiers in November.
Etihad’s expansion will bring tens of thousands of new visitors directly to Abu Dhabi, boosting its position as a premier destination for leisure, business, and cultural tourism. The move aligns with the UAE capital’s efforts to attract international travelers and reinforces its reputation as a hub of connectivity, innovation, and hospitality.
2025 will mark a pivotal year for Etihad Airways, with more than 90 destinations in over 50 countries and a fleet of more than 110 aircraft, including the new A321LRs. The airline expects to welcome over 20 million guests onboard next year, further supporting tourism growth in Abu Dhabi.
