Abu dhabi: Etihad Airways has announced the launch of flights to Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast starting from 4th October 2026, expanding its network to include a new year-round leisure destination via Red Sea International Airport in Tabuk Province. This location is conveniently just over three hours from Abu Dhabi.

According to Emirates News Agency, this development allows guests from across Etihad's network, including those from the Gulf and the Indian subcontinent, to reach the Red Sea with a single connection in Abu Dhabi. This marks the Red Sea as Etihad's sixth destination in Saudi Arabia, joining Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Medina, and Al Qassim.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, emphasized the convenience and appeal of the new route, noting that it offers a tropical holiday experience with islands and reefs just a short flight away from Abu Dhabi, and easily accessible with a single connection from anywhere across the airline's network.

The flights between Abu Dhabi and the Red Sea are set to commence with one service per week from 4th October 2026, with plans to increase to twice weekly from 25th October.