This latest route is all about turquoise waters, remote islands and seriously dreamy resorts
If you’ve been looking for a new weekend escape that feels much further away than it actually is, this could be the one.
Etihad Airways is launching flights from Abu Dhabi to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, opening up one of the region’s most exciting new holiday destinations from 4 October 2026.
The new route will fly into Red Sea International Airport in Tabuk Province, putting the spectacular Red Sea coastline just over three hours from Abu Dhabi.
And yes, that means the islands, coral reefs and laid-back beach escapes that usually sound like they require a much longer journey are suddenly looking rather more achievable.
The service will initially operate once a week from 4 October, before increasing to twice weekly from 25 October.
It will also run year-round, so this isn’t just another seasonal route to bookmark and forget about when summer rolls around.
For UAE residents, the appeal is pretty obvious. The Red Sea is rapidly emerging as one of Saudi Arabia’s big new luxury tourism destinations, with a very different feel from the country’s major cities.
You can start imaging a pristine coastline, dramatic desert landscapes, clear waters and a growing collection of high-end resorts designed around the surrounding environment.
Etihad is also positioning the route as a gateway for travellers beyond the UAE.
Passengers from across the Gulf and the Indian subcontinent will be able to reach the Red Sea with a single connection through Abu Dhabi, making the new service useful for international travellers as well as those starting their trip in the capital.
And this isn’t just another addition to Etihad’s growing map. The Red Sea will become the airline’s sixth destination in Saudi Arabia, joining Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Medina and Al Qassim.
For anyone already eyeing a winter sun break, the timing could be spot on. Etihad is already displaying Abu Dhabi–Red Sea return fares for October, with current fares starting from AED2,980 for a 4–11 October economy return, although prices can change.
So, if your idea of a good getaway involves swapping city skylines for sea views without spending half a day getting there, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast has just moved considerably higher up the list.
Launching 4-11 October. For further information, visit etihad.com
