Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Airways have established a landmark joint venture to transform connectivity between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Etihad will also start flights to Addis Ababa in October 1st, and Ethiopian to Abu Dhabi on July 15, 2025.
On Wednesday (March 19, 2025), Ethiopian Airlines announced the establishment of a milestone joint venture with Etihad Airways that will transform connectivity between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The agreement was signed at Ethiopian Airlines’ headquarters in Addis Ababa, and also includes a codeshare agreement. Under the agreement, Etihad Airways will start direct service between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa on October 1st, while Ethiopian Airlines will launch nonstop service between Addis Ababa and Abu Dhabi on July 15, 2025.
In Wednesday’s announcement, Ethiopian Airlines Group’s CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, said,
“We are delighted to enter into this strategic Joint venture with Etihad Airways. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance connectivity between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. By leveraging our combined networks, we are committed to providing our passengers with greater travel convenience and exceptional service. This partnership underscores our dedication to fostering strong bilateral relations and promoting economic growth between Ethiopia and the UAE.
“As part of our strategy to strengthen Ethiopian Airlines' global presence, the launch of our new flight to Abu Dhabi marks our third destination in the UAE, following Dubai and Sharjah (Cargo). With over 120 weekly passenger and cargo services to the Middle East and Gulf states, we are committed to providing exceptional connectivity and service to both our customers.”
Also commenting on the new strategic partnership, Etihad Airways’ CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, added,
“This Joint venture is great news for customers of both airlines. The start of flights between the two great cities of Addis Ababa and Abu Dhabi connects our expanding networks, giving our customers seamless access to a growing list of destinations via our extensive hubs. It also paves the way for deeper discussions on working together across our respective regions on other cooperation, including frequent flyer programs, training and cargo.
“We are excited to extend a warm welcome to Ethiopian travelers visiting Abu Dhabi, where they can experience our renowned hospitality and immerse themselves in the rich culture of our city. From breathtaking beaches and world-class cultural landmarks to thrilling theme parks and tranquil desert landscapes, Abu Dhabi offers a diverse array of attractions for all to enjoy.”
The Etihad-Ethiopian joint venture, subject to approval, will enable both carriers to collaborate in developing and expanding routes between the UAE and Ethiopia, and has been designed to deliver greater value to customers by offering stronger, seamless connectivity between Africa, the Middle East and Asia. The JV will provide a smoother journey for passengers traveling between major African destinations in Ethiopian’s network, including Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Kampala (Uganda), Kinshasa (DR Congo), and Lusaka (Zambia), as well key cities in the UAE and Asia, including Etihad destinations in India, Japan and Southeast Asia, such as Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Osaka (Japan), and Phuket (Thailand). New upcoming routes also include Phnom Penh (Cambodia) and Hanoi (Vietnam).
Addis Ababa will become Etihad’s 15th new destination for 2025, while Abu Dhabi will become Ethiopian’s 145th destination worldwide. Ethiopian Airlines will operate the new route to Abu Dhabi with a mix of Boeing 777s and Airbus A350-1000s. Etihad Airways will operate service between Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa with an Airbus A320 Family aircraft. Ethiopian Airlines offers seamless onward connectivity from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, serving numerous international and domestic destinations with smooth transit options.
Source: Ethiopian Airlines