Explore the UAE with Ease: Condor and Etihad Launch Seamless One-Ticket Flights from Germany to Abu Dhabi in 2026

Published on December 10, 2025

Travellers flying from Germany to the Middle East will soon have a smoother experience. A new codeshare agreement between Condor and Etihad Airways will open direct routes from Berlin and Frankfurt to Abu Dhabi starting in 2026. The partnership is designed to give global tourists easier access to Abu Dhabi while offering convenient connections to destinations across Asia, Africa and the Indian Ocean.

A new gateway to the Gulf

The direct service from Frankfurt is scheduled to begin on 1 May 2026. It will be operated with wide-body aircraft suitable for long-haul comfort. The Berlin service is set to launch on 15 June 2026, using narrow-body aircraft optimised for shorter regional hops. Both routes aim to offer smoother, one-ticket travel for passengers heading beyond Abu Dhabi to connecting destinations.

For travellers, this means a more coordinated journey. Baggage can be checked through to a final destination. Layover times are planned to be shorter. And passengers will no longer need to book separate tickets to complete multi-city itineraries across continents.

Ideal for leisure, business and long-distance travellers

This development benefits a wide group of passengers. Leisure travellers flying to Abu Dhabi will enjoy easier access to beaches, islands, cultural districts and desert excursions. Business travellers gain a direct link between Germany’s key economic hubs and the UAE’s capital. Students, digital nomads and long-stay visitors also benefit from shorter routes, especially when travelling to Asia or Australia through Abu Dhabi’s international hub.

The simplified booking structure also helps families and group travellers. A single ticket reduces the chance of missed flights and helps ensure that connecting flights are protected if delays occur.

Traveller-friendly arrival guidance

Abu Dhabi provides straightforward arrival procedures for most tourists. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival, depending on bilateral arrangements. Entry documentation normally includes a valid passport, a confirmed accommodation booking and a return or onward ticket. Government authorities provide updated entry rules through official channels, and travellers are encouraged to check for the latest requirements before departure.

Transit travellers can also benefit from clear airport procedures. Abu Dhabi’s modern terminal facilities offer immigration services, transit assistance counters and well-signposted transfer points. For passengers staying in the transit area, movement is simple and usually does not require additional entry permits. However, those planning to leave the airport for short city visits must follow the standard entry process.

Efficient transit through Zayed International Airport

Abu Dhabi’s main international airport is designed for smooth transfers. Passengers can expect organised security filters, comfortable waiting areas and clear guidance from airport staff. Family-friendly lounges and dedicated spaces for children make long layovers less stressful. Those planning onward travel to destinations served by Etihad’s extensive network can move between gates with minimal disruption.

Once in Abu Dhabi, travellers can choose between taxis, airport shuttles and app-based ride services. Car rentals are also widely available for visitors seeking more freedom to explore. The city’s road network is modern, with clear signage in English and Arabic.

Suggested travel ideas once you arrive

Short-stay travellers can enjoy a mix of cultural and leisure experiences. A three-day itinerary might include time on Abu Dhabi’s pristine beaches, a visit to cultural landmarks and an evening desert activity. Longer itineraries allow visitors to explore the city’s attractions, island resorts and nearby areas at a relaxed pace.

For travellers using Abu Dhabi as a connection point, the codeshare simplifies longer journeys. It is now easier to combine Germany, the Middle East and destinations such as the Maldives, Thailand, India or South Africa in a single itinerary.

What travellers should know before flying

Tourists should prepare essential documents before departure. A passport with sufficient validity, printed booking confirmations and any required visas should be kept handy. Travel insurance is recommended for long-haul trips. Airport authorities in Germany advise passengers flying internationally to arrive early, especially during holiday periods.

Packing efficiently also helps. Travellers should place essential medications, documents and a change of clothes in their carry-on bag. This ensures convenience during transfers or unexpected delays.

A more connected future for global tourists

The new Condor–Etihad codeshare marks an important moment for travellers who frequently fly between Europe and the Middle East. It brings new choices, simplified routes and more comfortable long-distance travel options. With direct flights from Berlin and Frankfurt, Germany gains two efficient gateways to Abu Dhabi’s growing international network.

For global travellers, these upcoming routes mean more flexibility and more opportunities to build effortless, multi-city journeys across continents. The travel experience becomes easier, smoother and more reliable — the way modern air travel should be.