Etihad Airways Launches New Service to Nairobi, Expanding Global Network

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has proudly announced the launch of its new service to Nairobi, Kenya, marking another significant milestone in a year of impressive network expansion. This new route, which commenced on Sunday, 15 December 2024, operates through the state-of-the-art Zayed International Airport, forging a vital connection between Abu Dhabi and one of Africa’s most vibrant cities.

“The introduction of our Nairobi service enhances our growing network while responding to strong travel demand between the UAE and Kenya, as demonstrated by today’s completely full inaugural flight,” stated Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways. “As both Abu Dhabi and Kenya experience remarkable tourism growth and set ambitious targets for the future, this route creates valuable opportunities for both destinations. The service strengthens the important ties between our regions, supporting Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub while providing enhanced access to Kenya’s thriving tourism market.”

Kenya’s tourism sector is booming, with visitor numbers expected to reach 3 million in 2024 and aiming for 5 million visitors in the coming years, making this launch particularly timely.

The Nairobi service follows a successful year for Etihad, which saw the introduction of new routes to Antalya, Bali, Boston, Jaipur, Kozhikode, Mykonos, Nice, Qassim, and Thiruvananthapuram. Looking forward to 2025, Etihad plans to further expand its network with thirteen new destinations, including Warsaw and Prague in June, Al Alamein and Atlanta in July, Taipei in September, Medan, Phnom Penh, and Krabi in October, and Tunis, Chiang Mai, Hong Kong, Hanoi, and Algiers in November.

The Abu Dhabi-Nairobi route connects two destinations renowned for their unique offerings. Abu Dhabi invites visitors with its blend of modern attractions and rich heritage, including the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, alongside world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment. Meanwhile, Nairobi, known as the “Green City in the Sun,” is an East African business hub that combines commercial prowess with natural wonders, featuring Nairobi National Park within its city limits and serving as a gateway to Kenya’s world-renowned wildlife destinations.

Etihad Airways continues to enhance its global network, bringing people closer and fostering economic and cultural exchanges across continents.