If you’ve been eyeing destinations beyond the usual routes, Etihad is expanding its network in Africa. The airline plans to add six new direct routes from Zayed International Airport (AUH), with flights starting in November 2026. By March 2027, all six routes will be operating.

The new destinations from Abu Dhabi to Africa include:

  • Ghana (Accra)
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo (Kinshasa and Lubumbashi)
  • Eritrea (Asmara)
  • Nigeria (Lagos)
  • Zimbabwe (Harare)

The new routes give passengers more direct flight options and less time in transit. For the airline, it means more connections between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, and a larger role as a transit hub. Etihad is also expanding its network in another direction, with 5 new routes from Abu Dhabi to China.

If you’re flying Etihad with your pet, here’s some good news. A limited-time Pets Onboard offer lets you bring your cat or dog into the cabin. Check all the details here.