The airline has announced six new exciting destinations
Big travel news is taking off in Abu Dhabi, as Etihad Airways has expanded its reach across Africa with a wave of new routes opening up exciting connections between continents.
With growing demand across key African markets, Etihad is stepping in to connect some of the continent’s most dynamic cities directly to Abu Dhabi, and beyond.
African destinations are gaining increasing popularity among globetrotters, offering a dynamic mix of dynamic cultural hubs, fast-growing economies, and richly characterful experiences.
From the buzzing streets of Lagos (Nigeria) to the creative pulse of Kinshasa (DR Congo), and the unique architectural charm of Asmara (Eritrea), these new routes bring a mix of business and leisure travel opportunities.
Cities like Accra (Ghana) and Harare (Zimbabwe) also join the network, each offering its own blend of energy, history, and emerging potential.
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New route launch dates:
Six new destinations. One incredible continent ✈️🌍
🇬🇭Accra, Ghana
🇪🇷Asmara, Eritrea
🇿🇼Harare, Zimbabwe
🇨🇩Kinshasa, DR Congo
🇳🇬Lagos, Nigeria
🇨🇩Lubumbashi, DR CongoThis is Africa, in full colour 🌍
Book now at https://t.co/CWJT5GwpvU#Etihad #BeyondBorders pic.twitter.com/CIWY2Et6WH
— Etihad Airways (@etihad) April 17, 2026
- Asmara, Eritrea – 7 November 2026
- Accra, Ghana – 17 March 2027
- Kinshasa, DR Congo – 18 March 2027
- Lagos, Nigeria – 18 March 2027
- Harare, Zimbabwe – 24 March 2027
- Lubumbashi, DR Congo – 24 March 2027
What makes this expansion particularly interesting is how it links into a much bigger picture.
Etihad has already been strengthening its footprint in Asia, especially in China and India, meaning travellers can now move more easily between Africa and some of the world’s fastest-growing regions, all through one central hub.
In simple terms, Abu Dhabi is becoming an even more powerful bridge connecting continents.
Cargo is a big part of the story too. With industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals relying on speed and reliability, these new routes create faster, more efficient pathways for goods to move between markets.
The expansion also builds on existing partnerships, including collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines, further strengthening connectivity across the continent.
Speaking of the launch, Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Africa is a natural and compelling next step in Etihad’s network expansion. These are markets with strong underlying demand, driven by trade, investment and population growth. Our role is to provide the connectivity that enables that growth.
“Demand for air connectivity across key African markets is outpacing existing supply, particularly in cargo and trade-linked sectors. This expansion is a direct response to that structural opportunity.
“By extending our network alongside our recent China expansion, we are enabling a more efficient corridor linking Africa, the Middle East and Asia through Abu Dhabi. For passengers, this creates simpler, faster journeys. For cargo, it provides more direct and reliable access between two regions where trade is growing rapidly.”
All of this reinforces Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a global gateway, whether you’re flying for business, exploring new destinations, or moving goods across borders.
For further information, visit etihad.com
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