Etihad Airways has launched its new service to Nairobi, marking another significant milestone in the airline’s exceptional year of network expansion.
The service, operating through the state-of-the-art Zayed International Airport, creates a vital connection between the UAE’s capital and one of Africa’s most dynamic cities.
Arik De Chief Revenue & Commercial Officer Etihad Airways
“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. 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.”
The launch comes at a significant time for Kenya’s tourism sector. The new Etihad Airways service to Nairobi is expected to further boost this recovery, providing easier access to Kenya for tourists from the UAE, the Middle East, and beyond. With visitor numbers expected to reach 3 million in 2024 and targets of 5 million visitors in the coming years, Kenya’s tourism industry is on a strong growth trajectory.
According to the statement, the Nairobi launch follows the successful introduction of services to Antalya, Bali, Boston, Jaipur, Kozhikode, Mykonos, Nice, Qassim, and Thiruvananthapuram in 2024.
Looking ahead to 2025, Etihad will continue its expansion with thirteen new destinations: 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.
