Etihad Airways has announced a major expansion of its African network, unveiling plans to launch new routes from Abu Dhabi to five countries across the continent.
The airline said it will introduce services to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ghana, Nigeria and Zimbabwe as part of its wider global growth strategy.
The move is aimed at strengthening links with high-growth markets and boosting connectivity for passengers and cargo, as demand for trade and travel between Africa, the Middle East and Asia continues to rise.
Etihad said the expansion builds on its recent growth in China, including increased flight frequencies and a deeper partnership with China Eastern Airlines. Together, the developments are intended to position Abu Dhabi as a key hub linking Africa with India and Asia.
The airline added that the new routes also reflect strengthening economic ties between the United Arab Emirates and African nations, particularly across sectors such as energy, infrastructure, mining and logistics.
The announcement comes alongside closer cooperation with Ethiopian Airlines, with which Etihad has a strategic joint venture aimed at improving connectivity across the continent. Ethiopian Airlines recently marked 80 years of operations.
Etihad’s chief executive, Antonoaldo Neves, said Africa represented “a natural and compelling next step” for the airline’s expansion plans.
“These are markets with strong underlying demand, driven by trade, investment and population growth,” he said. “Demand for air connectivity across key African markets is outpacing existing supply, particularly in cargo and trade-linked sectors.”
The airline said the new routes are intended to address that gap, while supporting the movement of goods, investment and people between some of the world’s fastest-growing regions.
