If your summer travel wishlist needs a little inspiration, Etihad Airways has just delivered plenty of it.
The Abu Dhabi-based airline has kicked off its biggest summer programme ever, and it’s doing so in style with four brand-new destinations, five returning seasonal favourites and more than 300 flights a day across its growing global network.
In a whirlwind week of route launches, Etihad added four very different destinations to its map, giving travellers even more reasons to pack their bags.
First up is Kraków, Poland’s cultural gem, where medieval squares, castles and centuries of history meet a thriving food and café scene.
For those chasing sunshine, Palma de Mallorca brings the stunning Balearic Islands within easy reach.
Closer to home, Damascus returns to the network, strengthening regional connectivity and providing more travel options across the Middle East.
Meanwhile, Zanzibar adds a tropical twist to the schedule. With white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and a rich blend of African, Arab and Indian influences.
These four new routes showcase the variety of experiences now available from Abu Dhabi, from historic European cities to idyllic island escapes.
As if four new destinations weren’t enough, Etihad is also bringing back some of its most popular seasonal routes.
Travellers can once again fly to:
Mykonos from 15 June
Malaga from 15 June
Santorini from 16 June
Nice from 19 June
Al Alamein from 16 July
Whether it’s the famous sunsets of Santorini, the beach clubs of Mykonos, the French Riviera charm of Nice, or the coastal beauty of Malaga and Al Alamein, these routes are designed for travellers seeking the perfect summer getaway.
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Etihad’s biggest summer ever
Behind all these route launches is a bigger story: growth.
Etihad says it will operate more than 300 flights per day during the peak summer season, with capacity up 10 per cent compared to last year.
The expansion is supported by 23 additional aircraft joining the fleet over the past year.
The airline is also seeing exceptionally strong demand, with flights operating at close to 90 per cent load factors across its network spanning Europe, Asia, North America, Africa and the Middle East.
Adding another incentive for visitors, Etihad and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi will introduce complimentary medical travel insurance for eligible international visitors flying to Abu Dhabi between July and December 2026.
The standout additions are arguably Palma de Mallorca and Zanzibar, two destinations that tap directly into the growing demand for leisure travel and unique holiday experiences.
At the same time, Kraków adds a fresh city-break option that’s a little different from the usual European favourites.
The return of destinations such as Mykonos, Santorini and Nice also shows that Mediterranean travel remains as popular as ever among UAE travellers.
The only difficult part is deciding where to go first.
Whether you’re craving Mediterranean sunshine, island adventures or a cultural city escape, Etihad’s biggest summer yet has plenty of inspiration waiting at the departure gate.
For further information, visit Etihad.ae
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