Etihad Airways Opens New Travel Corridor to Kazan, Expanding Connectivity, Culture, and Winter Tourism Across the UAE and Russia

Published on December 5, 2025

Etihad Airways has officially opened a new chapter in its global network with the launch of its inaugural service to Kazan, forging a direct air link between the dynamic capital of Tatarstan and Abu Dhabi, one of the Middle East’s most influential travel gateways. The milestone flight marks a significant expansion for the UAE’s national carrier as it strengthens its presence in Russia and enhances connectivity for travellers seeking new cultural, business, and leisure opportunities.

The new route, now operating three times weekly, reduces travel time between the two destinations to just over five hours, creating a smooth and efficient connection between Kazan’s rapidly growing metropolitan centre and Abu Dhabi’s world-class tourism landscape. The addition of this service allows travellers from across Russia to benefit from seamless access to Etihad’s extensive network across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Likewise, visitors from the UAE and abroad can now explore one of Russia’s most compelling destinations with unprecedented ease.

Etihad’s first flight on the route, EY839, arrived at Kazan International Airport to an enthusiastic welcome as traditional ceremonies marked the beginning of a route poised to elevate both tourism and commerce. Scheduled on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, the flights are ideally positioned to support weekend getaways, longer holidays, and business travel, accommodating a range of itineraries for international guests.

Abu Dhabi continues to shine as a top-tier global destination, offering a fusion of rich cultural heritage, modern luxury, and thrilling entertainment. The iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands as one of the world’s most spectacular architectural achievements, while Louvre Abu Dhabi showcases a diverse collection of masterpieces bridging global civilizations. Yas Island, home to adrenaline-filled theme parks and major sporting events, attracts families and adventure-seekers year-round. Combined with pristine beaches, desert experiences, and the welcoming spirit of Emirati hospitality, the UAE capital provides an exceptional travel experience during every season.

Kazan, the newest addition to Etihad’s growing network, is equally rich in attractions. Located along the legendary Volga River, the city is renowned for its harmonious blend of Tatar and Russian cultures. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Kazan Kremlin, where striking mosques and centuries-old cathedrals stand as symbols of unity and shared history. Kazan’s reputation as Russia’s “sports capital” also continues to flourish, with celebrated home teams such as FC Rubin Kazan, Ak Bars hockey club, and UNICS basketball drawing loyal fans from across the region. The city’s cutting-edge venues, many of which hosted matches during the 2018 FIFA World Cup and other international sporting events, further reinforce its global appeal.

The launch of the Kazan route forms part of Etihad’s far-reaching 2025 network expansion strategy, a blueprint that includes new destinations across multiple continents. The seasonal winter service will operate until 19 April 2026, with plans to return for the next winter period, reinforcing Etihad’s long-term commitment to providing cultural exchange and convenient travel links for its guests. As demand for travel grows, the airline continues to invest in new routes that inspire exploration and bring communities closer together.

Below is the current schedule for Etihad’s Kazan service, valid from 4 December 2025 to 19 April 2026:

Flight Schedule

• EY839
  Origin Abu Dhabi
  Departure 08:20
  Destination Kazan
  Arrival 12:35
  Frequency Tue, Thu, Sun
  Aircraft A320
• EY840
  Origin Kazan
  Departure 13:30
  Destination Abu Dhabi
  Arrival 19:50
  Frequency Tue, Thu, Sun
  Aircraft A320

With this new route, Etihad Airways continues to build meaningful bridges between cultures, expand global travel possibilities, and position both Abu Dhabi and Kazan as standout destinations on the world stage.