Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has announced that it will launch direct flights to Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, starting from 18 December 2025. The new route aims to meet the growing travel demand between the two countries.
First Flight on 18 December
In an announcement made via its official account on the US-based platform X (formerly Twitter), Etihad Airways stated, “Starting from 18 December 2025, we are launching flights that will connect Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, with Abu Dhabi and beyond.”
According to information provided on the airline’s official website, Abu Dhabi–Kabul flights will operate three times a week. The new services are expected to respond to the increasing passenger traffic between the UAE and Afghanistan.
Strengthening Economic and Social Ties
Etihad Airways highlighted that the new flights not only enhance connectivity but also have the potential to strengthen economic and social relations between the two countries.
The UAE hosts one of the largest Afghan communities in the Gulf region. According to the Afghan Business Council, approximately 300,000 Afghan nationals live and work in the country.
With the introduction of the new flights, travel opportunities for this community are expected to become easier, and commercial ties are likely to deepen further.
Strategic Expansion by Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways has been pursuing a strategic growth plan in recent years to expand its network across Asia and the Middle East.
With the addition of the Kabul route, the Abu Dhabi-based carrier aims to strengthen its operational presence in the region and integrate Afghanistan into its global flight network.
