Ethiopian Airlines Enhances Middle East Travel with New Addis Ababa to Sharjah Route, Boosting Connectivity Between Ethiopia and the UAE

Published on April 9, 2025

Ethiopian Airlines has recently announced the launch of a new passenger route connecting Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE). This new service, set to begin on June 1, 2025, is set to boost the airline’s Middle East operations, providing enhanced connectivity between Africa and one of the UAE’s most vibrant cities. As a leading African carrier, Ethiopian Airlines is strategically expanding its presence in the region, catering to both leisure and business travelers.

New Route Details and Flight Schedule

The new route will operate four times a week, utilizing Boeing 737 MAX aircraft for the journey. This is a notable move for Ethiopian Airlines, as it introduces a more efficient and comfortable travel experience. The flights will follow a well-coordinated schedule, offering convenience for travelers looking to connect between Ethiopia and the UAE.

The flight details are as follows:

• ET 622: The service departs from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 10:05 p.m., arriving in Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) at 3:25 a.m.
• ET 623: The return flight from Sharjah departs at 4:25 a.m. every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, arriving in Addis Ababa at 7:45 a.m.

This timing allows both business and leisure travelers to make the most of their time in each destination, with seamless transitions between the two cities. The frequency and schedule of the flights are expected to cater to the growing demand for travel between the two regions.

Strategic Expansion in the Middle East

Ethiopian Airlines’ decision to launch the Sharjah route reflects the airline’s continued commitment to strengthening its Middle East network. With an already established presence in the region, including extensive operations to Dubai, the new Sharjah service will allow Ethiopian Airlines to tap into a broader customer base.

The airline’s CEO, Mesfin Tasew, expressed his excitement about the new route, emphasizing that it would open up more travel options for passengers while further cementing the airline’s status as a prominent player in the Middle East. This expansion will also complement Ethiopian Airlines’ existing cargo services, enabling it to facilitate greater trade and business activity between Ethiopia and the UAE.

Ethiopian Airlines has long been a vital connection for passengers traveling between Africa and the Middle East. With Sharjah joining its growing list of destinations, Ethiopian Airlines will provide even more flight options for travelers seeking to connect between the two regions.

The Middle East’s Growing Role in Global Tourism and Trade

Sharjah, located just a short distance from Dubai, is an increasingly important destination for both business and leisure travelers. The UAE’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa makes it a key hub for international travel. With Sharjah’s rich cultural heritage, booming tourism sector, and thriving economy, the new Ethiopian Airlines service is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for travel to the region.

The introduction of the new route is expected to boost not only tourism but also the trade and business links between Ethiopia and the UAE. Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive network in Africa, combined with the connectivity it offers from the UAE, means that travelers can easily access both regions for work or pleasure. This increased accessibility will likely encourage more travelers to explore Ethiopia’s unique cultural and historical attractions, while also fostering increased tourism to the UAE.

For travelers, the new service will open up an affordable and convenient means to explore Sharjah and the broader UAE region. Sharjah, known for its cultural institutions, museums, and traditional markets, will now be more accessible to a wider audience. The flight connectivity from Addis Ababa will be especially beneficial for tourists traveling from Africa to experience the UAE’s rich cultural heritage and booming business environment.

Connecting Africa and the Middle East: More Than Just a Flight Route

The new Sharjah route not only connects two major regions but also has the potential to redefine travel for Africans and Middle Easterners alike. By offering a direct link between Addis Ababa and Sharjah, Ethiopian Airlines is facilitating easier access to both leisure and business travel, contributing to the growing flow of tourists and entrepreneurs between the two regions.

Ethiopia’s growing tourism sector will likely benefit from the new route, as travelers now have more options for reaching the country from the UAE. Ethiopia is home to world-renowned attractions such as the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the Simien Mountains, and the historic city of Axum. The addition of a Sharjah connection will make it easier for tourists from the Middle East to explore these sites, while also promoting cultural exchange between the two regions.

On the business side, the route opens up more opportunities for trade between Africa and the UAE. Ethiopia’s role as a growing economic hub in East Africa is strengthened by this new connection, which enables faster access for UAE businesses and investors to one of the most dynamic markets on the continent. This could lead to increased collaboration in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and technology, benefiting both nations.

Enhancing Ethiopian Airlines’ Middle East Presence

Ethiopian Airlines is no stranger to the Middle East market. Since its first flight to Dubai in 1979, the airline has built a robust network of services to the region, serving key cities like Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Jeddah. This deepening presence in the UAE with the Sharjah route will only further solidify the airline’s position as one of the most important carriers connecting Africa to the Middle East.

As the airline continues to expand its network, the new Sharjah route marks another milestone in Ethiopian Airlines’ ambitious growth plans. The airline is increasingly focusing on providing more travel options for passengers across Africa, while offering the comfort and quality service that passengers have come to expect from this award-winning carrier.

A Positive Impact on Global Travelers

The new Sharjah route will have a lasting impact on travelers from across the globe. With Ethiopian Airlines’ increasing network, travelers now have access to one of the most comprehensive air routes in Africa, with direct flights to key cities in Asia, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. This expanded network opens up new opportunities for exploration, business ventures, and cultural exchanges.

For travelers in the Middle East, this new service provides a direct connection to one of Africa’s most significant transportation hubs, making it easier to travel throughout the continent. Whether for leisure, business, or educational purposes, passengers from Sharjah and other cities in the UAE will now have increased access to African destinations, enhancing the possibilities for tourism and economic collaboration.

On a global scale, Ethiopian Airlines’ expansion into Sharjah is part of a broader trend where airlines are expanding their networks to meet the growing demand for connectivity. The aviation industry is constantly evolving, and Ethiopian Airlines’ strategic moves to enhance its service offerings are a great example of how airlines can serve a diverse range of passengers and foster international relationships.

Conclusion: Ethiopian Airlines Connects the World

In conclusion, the launch of Ethiopian Airlines’ new route between Addis Ababa and Sharjah is a significant step in enhancing travel between Africa and the Middle East. The airline’s expansion into Sharjah strengthens its position as a key player in the global aviation industry, offering more travel options and fostering stronger cultural and business connections between two dynamic regions. For travelers, this new service represents greater convenience, affordability, and accessibility, allowing them to explore more of what these regions have to offer.