The national airlines of the United Arab Emirates and Ethiopia have joined forces in a landmark Joint Venture (JV). This strategic partnership also includes a codeshare arrangement, unlocking greater travel opportunities for passengers across both networks.
Follow Aeronews on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok and Bluesky
As part of this collaboration, the airlines are launching new flights between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa, strengthening ties between the two regions. Ethiopian Airlines will commence services from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) to Zayed International Airport (AUH) on 15 July, while Etihad Airways will introduce daily flights to Addis Ababa starting 1 October.
Subject to regulatory approval, the Etihad – Ethiopian JV will enable both airlines to collaborate in developing and expanding routes between the UAE and Ethiopia, as well as enhancing connectivity across their respective networks. This partnership is designed to deliver greater value to passengers by strengthening links between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, resulting in a more seamless and comprehensive combined network.
The JV underscores a shared commitment to offering expanded travel options and a smoother journey for passengers traveling between major African destinations on Ethiopian’s network—such as Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Kampala, Uganda; Kinshasa, DR Congo and Lusaka, Zambia—and key cities in the UAE and Asia, including Etihad destinations in Pakistan and Southeast Asia, such as Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Islamabad, Pakistan and upcoming new routes including Phnom Penh, Cambodia and Krabi, Thailand.
Ethiopian Airlines will operate the new route using its modern fleet, including the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350-1000, providing passengers with a comfortable travel experience. Ethiopian Airlines offers extensive connectivity from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, serving numerous international and domestic destinations with smooth transit options.