New UAE flight routes launching in 2026

A guide to the destinations Etihad Airways, Emirates, flydubai and Air Arabia will start flying to next year

Etihad will begin a seasonal flight to Salalah, Oman, in May 2026. Photo: Marwan Alfarsi / Unsplash

While there’s still plenty of time left in 2025, travellers are already planning for new adventures in 2026. Etihad Airways has announced two seasonal destinations for next year – Salalah, Oman and Krakow, Poland – as well as six other new routes, expanding its growing global network.

Though Emirates, Air Arabia and flydubai haven’t announced new routes yet, they’re still carriers to keep on your radar.

Abu Dhabi to Baku, Azerbaijan

Launching: March 2 (Etihad)

The streets of Baku's old town in the evening. Getty Images

Etihad Airways will operate 10 weekly flights to Azerbaijan’s capital.

Baku is known for its bold architecture, seaside promenade and dynamic energy. Visitors are drawn to its blend of tradition and innovation, from centuries-old palaces to futuristic towers that shape its striking skyline.

Abu Dhabi to Yerevan, Armenia

Launching: March 9 (Etihad)

The Yerevan Cascade Complex consists of five hillside terraces connected with more than 500 steps. Photo: Armenia Travel

The UAE’s national carrier will offer 10 weekly flights to Yerevan.

One of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Yerevan is celebrated for its grand squares, pink stone buildings and mountain views. Museums, galleries and open-air cafes reflect Armenia’s rich heritage and creative spirit.

Abu Dhabi to Tbilisi, Georgia

Launching: March 13 (Etihad)

Etihad will fly to Tbilisi eight times a week.

This vibrant city combines old-world charm with contemporary flair. Set along the Kura River, Tbilisi is known for its colourful balconies, historic baths, lively cafes and a thriving arts scene that celebrates Georgia’s cultural identity.

Abu Dhabi to Almaty, Kazakhstan

Launching: March 16 (Etihad)

Almaty is surrounded by mountains and offers access to ski resorts, hiking trails and green spaces. Photo: Ilyas Dautov / Unsplash

There will be 10 weekly flights from Abu Dhabi to Almaty.

The city has tree-lined avenues and alpine scenery, along with a cosmopolitan feel. Surrounded by mountains, it offers access to ski resorts, hiking trails and green spaces — all while its food and arts scene reflects Central Asia’s diverse influences.

Abu Dhabi to Bucharest, Romania

Launching: March 16 (Etihad)

Etihad will offer four weekly flights to Romania’s capital.

Bucharest blends elegant architecture, lively streets and vibrant culture, offering a spirited European getaway full of charm and character.

Abu Dhabi to Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Launching: March 17 (Etihad)

Six weekly flights will connect Abu Dhabi to Tashkent, one of Central Asia’s most populous cities.

Tashkent is a mix of history and modernity, with eye-catching architecture, bustling bazaars and a growing number of cultural institutions that highlight Uzbekistan’s heritage.

Abu Dhabi to Charlotte, North Carolina

Launching: May 4 (Etihad)

Charlotte, North Carolina, is Etihad's sixth destination in the US it will fly direct to. Photo: Ryan M / Unsplash

Etihad’s sixth US destination will be Charlotte, with four weekly flights.

Nicknamed the “Queen City", Charlotte pairs Southern hospitality with a modern edge. It’s home to the Nascar Hall of Fame, diverse neighborhoods, rich history and a thriving food scene.

Abu Dhabi to Salalah, Oman

Launching: May 21 (Etihad)

Etihad will launch flights to Salalah starting twice weekly (on Sundays and Thursdays), increasing to daily from mid-June to mid-September.

The southern Omani city is a rare summer oasis in the Arabian Peninsula, famous for its Khareef monsoon season, when misty mountains and waterfalls transform the landscape into a lush escape.

Abu Dhabi to Krakow, Poland

Launching: June 16 (Etihad)

Krakow service with Etihad will include flights operating three times a week (Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays) until September 5.

Known for its medieval Old Town, Gothic churches and cafe-lined squares, Krakow also provides access to Poland’s Tatra Mountains.