UAE Ignites a Powerful Global Aviation Expansion as Etihad Airways and Riyadh Air Launch Major New Routes From Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Transforming International Travel Connectivity

Written By: Soumava Chakrabarty

Soumava Chakrabarty

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July 15, 2026 12:38 PM

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A major UAE flights expansion is being driven by Etihad Airways, while stronger regional connectivity is also being created by Riyadh Air. New links are being added between Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Riyadh and destinations across Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and the United States. More holiday choices are therefore being offered to travellers. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are also being strengthened as international gateways, while Riyadh is being developed as another powerful connecting hub. The latest routes are being supported by new aircraft, rising passenger demand and ambitious tourism plans across the Gulf.

Damascus Has Been Reconnected With Abu Dhabi

Direct connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Damascus has been restored by Etihad Airways. The route has been brought back after a long absence and is being operated as an important regional travel link. Family visits, essential journeys and business movement can all be supported by the service. Connections through Abu Dhabi can also be used for onward travel to other destinations in the Etihad network. A direct option can reduce the need for long transfers through another airport. Greater convenience is therefore being provided for travellers moving between the UAE and Syria, particularly during busy holiday and family travel periods.

Popular Seasonal Destinations Are Being Restored

Five established seasonal routes have also been returned to Etihad Airways’ summer schedule. Mykonos and Malaga were restored from 15 June 2026. Santorini was brought back from 16 June, while Nice returned from 19 June. Al Alamein was scheduled to return from 16 July. These services are being aimed mainly at travellers seeking beaches, culture, food, entertainment and warm-weather experiences. Familiar holiday destinations are therefore being combined with newly introduced cities, giving passengers a broader selection. Seasonal aircraft capacity can also be directed towards places where demand is strongest during summer.

Kabul Flights Are Being Doubled From Abu Dhabi

Etihad Airways has also doubled its Abu Dhabi to Kabul flights from 15 July 2026. The increase has been introduced after rapid growth was recorded on the route following its launch. More seats are being provided for travellers moving between the UAE and Afghanistan. Family travel, business movement and onward connections through Abu Dhabi can all be supported. Greater flexibility can be created when more flight options are available during the week. The expansion also shows how existing services are being strengthened alongside the opening of completely new destinations.

Medical Travel Protection Is Being Added for Visitors

Complimentary medical travel insurance is being provided to eligible international visitors travelling to Abu Dhabi on Etihad-operated flights. The programme is available from July to December 2026 and is being administered by The National Insurance Company – Daman. Up to 15 days of medical cover in the UAE is being included. Eligible travellers using the Etihad stopover programme are also being covered. More confidence can therefore be given to passengers who choose to spend time in Abu Dhabi. A connecting journey can be converted into a short holiday with fewer concerns about unexpected medical expenses.

Travellers Are Being Given More Choice Across the Gulf

The latest announcements show that Gulf aviation growth is being driven by both new destinations and higher frequencies. Etihad Airways is being expanded from an established Abu Dhabi hub, while Riyadh Air is being introduced as a new regional and international competitor. Dubai is being linked directly with Riyadh, and Abu Dhabi is being connected with more leisure destinations. More options can bring competitive fares, flexible schedules and shorter journeys. However, flight times and operating dates should still be checked directly with the airlines because schedules can be adjusted in response to demand, aircraft availability or regional operating conditions.

Abu Dhabi Tourism Is Being Supported by Every New Link

Etihad Airways’ expansion is not being limited to carrying connecting passengers. More overseas visitors are being brought directly into Abu Dhabi. Hotels, attractions, restaurants, tour operators and local transport services can benefit when additional travellers stay in the emirate. Stopover tourism is also being supported by easier booking options and temporary medical travel insurance. When a new international route is opened, Abu Dhabi is exposed to another visitor market. The wider network is therefore being used as a tourism tool as well as an aviation strategy. Greater global visibility can be secured for the UAE capital.

A New Gulf Aviation Era Is Being Formed

A more competitive Gulf aviation market is being created by the simultaneous growth of Etihad Airways and Riyadh Air. Established hubs are being strengthened, while new connecting patterns are being developed. Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Riyadh are all being positioned as important centres for international travel. Tourists are being given access to more beaches, cities, heritage destinations and business centres. Stronger links are also being formed between the Gulf, Europe, Africa, Asia and the United States. As aircraft are added and schedules are expanded, the region’s influence over global tourism flows is likely to be increased.

[Source:- Arabian Business]