Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Airways have forged a landmark Joint Venture (JV) that is set to significantly enhance connectivity between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The strategic partnership, announced at Ethiopian Airlines’ headquarters in Addis Ababa, includes a codeshare arrangement that opens up extensive travel opportunities across both airlines’ networks.

Ethiopian Airlines will begin operating flights from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) on July 15, 2025, while Etihad Airways will launch its nonstop flights from Abu Dhabi to Addis Ababa on October 1, 2025.

Subject to regulatory approval, the JV will also enable both airlines to collaborate to develop and expand routes between the UAE and Ethiopia, enhancing connectivity across both airlines’ networks.

The agreement marks a significant milestone for Ethiopian Airlines, expanding its reach to 145 global destinations and solidifying its presence in the UAE with Abu Dhabi as its third destination in the country, following Dubai and Sharjah (cargo).

Ethiopian Airlines will operate the new route using a mix of Boeing 777 and Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, while Etihad Airways will operate its daily flights to ADD with one of its state-of-the-art A320s.

Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, expressed his enthusiasm, emphasizing the partnership’s potential to provide passengers with greater travel convenience and exceptional service. The Joint Venture also promotes economic growth between Ethiopia and the UAE, making it an attractive opportunity for travel agents in Eswatini who are looking to enhance itineraries that link major African cities with key destinations in the UAE and beyond.