Planning your summer getaway this year? Etihad Airways Summer Routes are making it easier than ever with the launch of nine stunning routes: four new routes and five beloved seasonal favourites. Just as peak travel season kicks into high gear, between June 11-14, the airline has expanded its network to over 300 daily flights, connecting Abu Dhabi with some of the world’s most sought-after summer locations. Whether you are dreaming of European charm, Mediterranean beaches or the Indian Ocean escapes, Etihad has curated the perfect lineup for summer 2026.
Etihad’s latest expansion demonstrates the airline’s commitment to connecting Abu Dhabi with the world’s most captivating locations. With regions from Poland, Spain, Syria, Tanzania added in the summer escape list, the airline is fully prepared to handle the surge in summer travel demand. If you are considering any of these new or existing routes, here’s what you need to know before booking.
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Four new routes launched between June 11- June 14
Krakow, Poland: Cultural Gateway to Europe
Etihad launched direct flights to Krakow on June 11, opening doors to one of Europe’s most captivating cultural cities. Known for its stunning medieval old town, rich Jewish heritage and proximity to historic sites, Krakow is a destination for culture enthusiasts and history buffs. Flights connect Abu Dhabi directly with this East European gem, making it more accessible than ever for European explorations.
Palme de Mallorca, Spain: Balearic Island Paradise
Starting June 12, Etihad now offers direct connectivity between Abu Dhabi and the Balearic Islands via Palma de Mallorca. This Mediterranean hotspot is perfect for beach lovers, with pristine coastlines, vibrant nightlife and charming old-town streets. Up to four weekly flights are available, providing flexibility for both short beach breaks and extended island holidays.
Damascus, Syria: Regional Connectivity Strengthened
Launched on June 13, the Damascus route reinforces Etihad’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity across the Middle East. This strategic additions strengthens the business as well as leisure travel options between Abu Dhabi and the Levantine region, catering to both travelers with regional connections and those exploring the broader Middle East.
Zanzibar, Tanzania: Indian Ocean Escape
Etihad’s newest leisure route, launched on June 14, brings the exotic allure of Zanzibar with easy reach. Famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, spice plantations and rich Swahili culture, Zanzibar is one of the Indian Ocean’s most coveted areas. Direct flights from Abu Dhabi make it an ideal choice for those seeking an off the beaten path tropical escape.
Our biggest summer yet ✈️
— Etihad Airways (@etihad) June 15, 2026
300+ daily flights, near-record passenger loads and +10% capacity year-on-year – driven by strong demand across Europe, Asia, North America, Africa and the Middle East.
In days:
•4 new routes launched (Kraków, Palma de Mallorca, Damascus, Zanzibar)… pic.twitter.com/RHbKdJb8PT
Five seasonal routes return
As peak summer arrives, Etihad is welcoming back five beloved seasonal routes that travelers have been waiting for.
Mykonos, Greece: Set twice a week, from June 15, the iconic Greek Island, is perfect for those seeking Mediterranean sun, vibrant beach clubs and charming whitewashed villages. The destination garner’s the visitors attention with sun-seekers to turquoise waters and nightlife. Famous for its vibrant beach clubs, whitewashed cubic buildings and picturesque windmills, Mykonos offers an intoxicating blend of relaxation and revelry. The island’s charming Little Venice waterfront and cosmopolitan atmosphere make it a magnetic destination for those seeking the quintessential Mediterranean escape.
Malaga, Spain: Flights up to four times weekly from June 15. One of Spain’s most glamorous beach destinations is back with increased frequency, offering direct access to the sun-drenched Costa del Sol. This Andalusian jewel enchants visitors with its golden sandy beaches, historical Alcazaba fortress perched dramatically above the city and the stunning Picasso Museum. From leisurely beach days to exploring the charming old medina, Malaga delivers an irresistible mix of culture, history and beachside bliss.
Santorini, Greece: Set twice a week, from June 15, the postcard perfect Cycladic Island resumes operations with its breathtaking beauty intact. Famous for its iconic white-washed churches with striking blue domes, dramatic volcanic cliffs plunging into the sparkling Aegean Sea and romantic sunsets that paint the sky in shades of orange and pin, Santorini is a dream destination. Explore the enchanting clifftop villages of Oia and Fira, immersing yourself in timeless Greek Island.
Nice, France: The glamorous French Riviera favourite returns with bi-weekly flights, starting from June 19, connecting Abu Dhabi travelers directly to one of Europe’s most elegant and refined coastal cities. Nice boasts pebbled beaches lapped by azure Mediterranean waters, a picturesque Promenade des Anglais lined with Belle Epoque architecture and a vibrant old town brimming with Provencal character. From world class museums and gourmet dining to leisurely seaside strolls, Nice delivers sophisticated European elegance.
Al Alamein, Egypt: The historical Egyptian coastal location makes it seasonal comeback, catering to both leisure and heritage travellers. Famous as the site of the pivotal World War II Battle of El Alamein, this compelling destination seamlessly blends poignant history with pristine Mediterranean beaches. Visitors can explore moving war memorials ad museums by day, then unwind on serene sandy shores by evening, making Al Alamein a unique and enriching getaway.
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How to Book these flights
Booking your journey on Etihad’s new and returning summer routes is straightforward and easy.
- Online Booking; Visit Etihad.com search for your desired route. The airline’s user-friendly platform allows you to compare fares, flight times and seat options across all nine routes.
- Mobile App: Download the Etihad Airways app for on-the-go booking, real time flight updates and exclusive app-only deals on selected routes.
- Travel Agencies: Partner travel agencies worldwide can assist with your bookings, specially if you are looking for a package deals combining flights with accommodation.
- Call Centre: Contact Etihad’s customer service team directly for personalized assistance, group bookings or other requirements.
Flight Details and Capacity
With 23 additional aircraft added to Etihad’s fleet compared to last summer, the airline is operating these new routes with modern, comfortable aircraft. Flights are operating at close to 90% load factors, indicating strong demand across all nine routes.
Most routes are scheduled with convenient departure times from Abu Dhabi, allowing for easy connections and optimal arrival times at your destination. Flight durations may vary. The European routes typically take 4-6 hours, Mediterranean flights take around 3-4 hours and the Zanzibar route approximately 5-6 hours.
Additional Travel Benefits
To sweeten your summer travel experience, Etihad and the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi have launched complimentary medical travel insurance for international visitors flying on Etihad-operated flights. Will be accessible from July to December 2026, this initiative provides up to 15 days of medical cover in the UAE, administered by The National Insurance Company, Daman.
Additionally, Etihad’s stopover programme continues to attract growing numbers of visitors to Abu Dhabi by transforming a transit into a holiday. This option can prove to be perfect if you are connecting through the capital to reach any of these nine routes.
Plan your Summer now!
Etihad’s largest summer programme ever is designed to meet the accelerating demand for travel to, from and through Abu Dhabi. With four new routes and five existing seasonal routes spanning across the globe, covering Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean, there is never been a better time to explore.
Whether you are dreaming of Krakow’s historic streets, Palma’s sandy beaches, Zanzibar’s tropical paradise or Greek’s timelessly charming islands, Etihad has covered it all. Book your summer escape today and experience the airline’s expanded network, increased capacity and world-class service.
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