Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national airline, continues to soar to new heights with its latest strategic move—launching direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Peshawar. This expansion is a testament to the airline’s growing regional influence and deepening ties between the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan. Beginning September 29, 2025, Etihad will connect the UAE capital with the vibrant city of Peshawar, offering more accessibility, enhancing tourism, and fortifying business relations across borders.
A Fourth Gateway into Pakistan
Peshawar becomes the fourth Pakistani city in Etihad’s network, joining the ranks of Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. The inclusion of this route underscores Etihad’s long-term vision of building robust connectivity across South Asia. The flights will initially operate five times a week, with plans to escalate to daily service by November 22, 2025. Utilizing the efficient and passenger-friendly Airbus A320 aircraft, each flight will accommodate eight passengers in Business Class and 150 in Economy Class.
This move is not just about adding another pin to Etihad’s map—it symbolizes a stronger cultural and economic bridge between Pakistan and the UAE. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, shared his excitement: “We are thrilled to further expand our presence in Pakistan with the launch of our daily service between Abu Dhabi and Peshawar. This new route reflects our commitment to providing vital connectivity for travelers between Pakistan and the Gulf, Africa, Europe, and North America.”
What This Means for Peshawar
Peshawar, nestled in the northwestern region of Pakistan, is a city steeped in history, culture, and economic significance. Often regarded as one of the oldest cities in South Asia, it is the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and a key urban center connecting Pakistan with Afghanistan and Central Asia.
The city’s growing business activities and a significant overseas Pakistani population, particularly in the UAE and GCC, make it a crucial link in the travel chain. The new route is poised to offer unparalleled convenience to travelers looking to reconnect with family, invest in local markets, or explore tourism opportunities. Additionally, this direct link reduces travel time and eliminates the need for layovers, enhancing travel comfort and efficiency.
UAE-Pakistan Ties Take Flight
Etihad’s expanded operations into Peshawar mark a strategic alignment with the UAE’s broader foreign policy and economic cooperation with Pakistan. Both countries have historically enjoyed warm bilateral relations, underscored by shared cultural values, large expatriate communities, and growing economic ties.
Over 1.5 million Pakistanis reside in the UAE, contributing significantly to the economy through sectors like construction, healthcare, hospitality, and services. The new flight path will serve as a lifeline for these expatriates, enabling easier access to their hometowns while fostering tourism and investment exchanges.
From a macroeconomic standpoint, increased air connectivity boosts not just passenger volumes but also cargo traffic—opening avenues for trade in perishable goods, textiles, electronics, and other industries.
Complementary Growth in Karachi
In tandem with launching the Peshawar route, Etihad has also announced an increase in flights to Karachi, Pakistan’s financial capital. Starting October 1, 2025, Karachi will see 17 weekly flights—further cementing Etihad’s ambition to become the preferred airline for travelers to and from Pakistan.
This simultaneous expansion illustrates a calculated, data-driven approach by Etihad to tap into the demands of a thriving aviation corridor. Both cities—Karachi and Peshawar—present unique demographic and commercial profiles, and Etihad is positioning itself to leverage them efficiently.
A Global Expansion Strategy
Peshawar’s induction into Etihad’s portfolio is part of a larger global strategy for 2025. This year alone, Etihad has introduced or reinstated 16 new destinations, including exciting additions such as Prague, Warsaw, Algiers, Tunis, and Atlanta. The airline has also increased frequencies to European hotspots like Paris, Milan, Manchester, Zurich, and Madrid.
Etihad’s network growth isn’t just about numerical expansion—it reflects a reinvention of its global business model post-pandemic, focused on sustainability, customer experience, and regional relevance.
With the airline intensifying its footprint in both established and emerging markets, passengers benefit from more travel options, competitive fares, and seamless connectivity across continents.
Customer-Centric Offerings
Etihad’s reputation for top-tier service remains intact with the introduction of this route. From a thoughtfully curated in-flight menu to its award-winning cabin crew and entertainment system, passengers traveling on the Abu Dhabi–Peshawar route can expect the premium experience that Etihad is known for.
The A320 aircraft deployed for the route is optimized for regional travel, offering both comfort and efficiency. Business Class travelers will enjoy plush reclining seats, gourmet dining, and exclusive airport lounge access. Meanwhile, Economy Class passengers will benefit from spacious seating and attentive service.
Moreover, Etihad Guest members will continue to earn miles on these flights, adding value for frequent travelers.
Etihad’s Role in UAE’s Aviation Vision
Etihad’s recent expansions align with the UAE’s larger aviation and economic diversification strategies. Abu Dhabi has made significant investments in enhancing infrastructure, including the newly upgraded Zayed International Airport, which serves as a hub for the airline’s operations.
The new routes support the capital’s vision to become a global transportation and logistics hub. The government is actively fostering aviation sector growth as part of its non-oil diversification plan, and Etihad plays a central role in that mission.
Looking Ahead
As the travel industry rebounds and global connectivity becomes a linchpin of diplomacy and business, Etihad Airways is positioning itself as a leader in creating meaningful links between nations. The Abu Dhabi–Peshawar route is not just a flight—it is a connection between families, businesses, and cultures.
This strategic expansion will significantly benefit communities on both ends. For Peshawar, it opens new doors to global markets, tourism, and overseas investment. For Abu Dhabi and the UAE, it reinforces their role as a gateway between East and West.
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