Etihad Airways to Launch Direct Abu Dhabi-Tbilisi Flights in 2026

Starting March 2026, Etihad Airways will offer 14 weekly Abu Dhabi-Tbilisi flights, doubling current direct service. This boosts Georgia’s tourism and trade with the Gulf, responding to a 17% increase in Gulf visitors. Tickets are open for booking, pending regulatory approval before Operation.

Key Takeaways

• Etihad Airways will launch 14 weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Tbilisi from March 1, 2026.
• This doubles direct flights on the route, competing with Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s 7 weekly flights.
• Over 500,000 Gulf visitors traveled to Georgia in early 2025, up 17% from 2024.

Etihad Airways will launch direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Tbilisi, Georgia, starting March 1, 2026. This move marks a major change for travelers and the aviation industry in both countries. The airline plans to operate 14 flights per week, offering twice-daily service on this route. Tickets are already available for booking on Etihad’s official website, and the regulatory process to grant flight permits is set to begin before the winter 2025–2026 navigation season.

This development is important for several reasons. First, it doubles the number of direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Tbilisi. Until now, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi has been the only airline offering direct service, with seven flights per week. Etihad Airways, known for its full-service and premium experience, will now provide travelers with more choices and better service quality.

Etihad Airways to Launch Direct Abu Dhabi-Tbilisi Flights in 2026
Etihad Airways to Launch Direct Abu Dhabi-Tbilisi Flights in 2026

Levan Moseshvili, General Director of the Georgian Airports Association, explained the significance of this move:
“Etihad Airways is one of the world’s top full-service carriers… Its decision to launch daily flights to Tbilisi reflects a high level of trust in Georgia. This move will further boost tourist flows from the Gulf region, known for its high-spending travelers.”

The Ministry of Economy of Georgia also confirmed the operational details and highlighted the strategic importance of the United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪 market for Georgia 🇬🇪. This partnership is expected to bring more visitors, increase trade, and strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.

Why Etihad Airways Chose Georgia

Etihad Airways’ decision to enter the Georgian market is not random. The airline is expanding its network, and Tbilisi is one of seven new destinations it plans to add between November 2025 and March 2026. By the end of 2025, Etihad will have launched or announced 27 new routes. This aggressive expansion is a response to rising passenger demand, especially from the Gulf region.

In the first half of 2025, nearly 500,000 visitors from Gulf countries traveled to Georgia. This is a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2024. In 2024, 647,710 passengers traveled between Georgia and the United Arab Emirates, making up 59% of all Gulf–Georgia air traffic. These numbers show strong and growing interest in travel between the two regions.

Etihad’s CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, shared the airline’s vision:
“Our goal is clear, we want to bring more people directly to Abu Dhabi. These new routes connect us to fast-growing, culturally rich regions and will help stimulate demand for tourism and trade in the UAE’s capital.”

What This Means for Travelers

For travelers, the new flights mean more options and greater flexibility. The twice-daily schedule will make it easier for both leisure and business travelers to plan their trips. It also offers better connections to Etihad’s global network, which includes destinations in Asia, Africa, and Australia.

Here’s what travelers can expect:

  • More Choices: With 14 flights per week, travelers can choose from more departure and arrival times.
  • Improved Service: Etihad Airways is known for its high-quality service, comfortable seating, and premium experience.
  • Better Connections: The new flights make it easier to connect through Abu Dhabi to other parts of the world.
  • Potentially Lower Fares: Increased competition often leads to better prices for travelers.

For those interested in booking, tickets are already available on Etihad’s official website.

Tip
Book early to secure the best fares and preferred travel dates, as increased competition may lead to attractive introductory offers.

Impact on Georgia’s Economy and Tourism

Georgia stands to benefit greatly from Etihad Airways’ entry. The country has seen a steady rise in visitors from the Gulf region, who are known for spending more on travel, shopping, and hospitality. The twice-daily flights are expected to attract even more tourists, boosting the local economy.

The increased air traffic will also help Tbilisi become a stronger regional aviation hub. More flights mean more business for airports, hotels, restaurants, and other service providers. This can lead to new jobs and more investment in the tourism sector.

The Ministry of Economy of Georgia has emphasized the importance of the UAE market. The partnership with Etihad Airways is seen as a way to attract high-spending travelers and encourage more trade and cultural exchange.

Operational Details and What to Expect

  • Start Date: March 1, 2026
  • Frequency: 14 flights per week (twice daily)
  • Booking: Tickets are available now
  • Permit Status: The regulatory process will begin before the winter 2025–2026 navigation season
  • Aircraft: The specific aircraft for the Tbilisi route has not been announced, but Etihad’s recent expansions have used modern planes like the Airbus A350-1000

Travelers can expect a smooth and comfortable experience, as Etihad Airways is known for its modern fleet and high safety standards.

How the Permit Process Works

Before Etihad Airways can start flying the new route, it must receive the proper permits from Georgian authorities. This process is set to begin before the winter 2025–2026 navigation season. The permit ensures that the airline meets all safety, security, and operational standards required by Georgia.

For more information about aviation regulations in Georgia, travelers and industry professionals can visit the Georgian Civil Aviation Agency’s official website.

Competition and Market Changes

With Etihad Airways entering the market, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi will face new competition. Until now, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi has operated seven flights per week between Abu Dhabi and Tbilisi. Etihad’s entry will double the number of flights and introduce a full-service, premium option for travelers.

This competition is likely to lead to:

  • Better Service: Airlines may improve their offerings to attract more passengers.
  • Lower Prices: More choices often mean better deals for travelers.
  • More Route Development: Other airlines may consider adding new routes or increasing their own flight frequencies.

Industry analysts believe that Etihad’s move is part of a larger strategy to make Abu Dhabi a top global transit and tourism hub. As reported by VisaVerge.com, this expansion is a direct response to the growing demand for travel between the Gulf and Georgia.

What This Means for the Community

The new flights will have a wide impact on different groups:

  • Immigrants and Diaspora: People with family in Georgia or the United Arab Emirates will find it easier to visit loved ones.
  • Students: Georgian students studying in the UAE, or vice versa, will have more travel options.
  • Business Travelers: Companies with offices or partners in both countries will benefit from more flexible schedules and better connections.
  • Tourists: More flights mean easier access to Georgia’s natural beauty, culture, and history.

The increased connectivity may also encourage more people from the Gulf region to consider Georgia as a place to invest, study, or even settle.

Note
The regulatory permit process for Etihad’s new route will begin before the winter 2025–2026 navigation season. Travelers should monitor official updates for any changes to launch dates or schedules.

Background: Georgia’s Growing Popularity

Georgia has become a popular destination for travelers from the Gulf region. The country offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, rich history, and friendly visa policies. Many visitors are attracted by Georgia’s mountains, seaside resorts, and vibrant cities like Tbilisi.

In recent years, the government has worked to make it easier for travelers from the Gulf to visit. This includes simplified visa processes and more direct flights. The result has been a steady increase in tourist numbers and growing interest from investors.

Etihad Airways’ Broader Expansion

Etihad Airways is not just focusing on Georgia. The airline is adding seven new destinations between November 2025 and March 2026. By the end of 2025, it will have launched or announced 27 new routes. This expansion is part of a plan to meet rising demand and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global travel hub.

The airline’s CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, has made it clear that the goal is to bring more people to Abu Dhabi and connect with fast-growing regions. The new routes are expected to stimulate demand for tourism and trade in the UAE’s capital.

Future Outlook and Growth Projections

With Etihad Airways entering the Georgian market, experts expect passenger numbers between Georgia and the Gulf to keep growing at double-digit rates. The move may also encourage other Gulf carriers to add new routes or increase their own flight frequencies.

Georgia is likely to see more inbound tourism, especially from high-spending travelers. This will help the country’s economy and improve its global connections. The increased air traffic may also lead to more investment in infrastructure, such as airports and hotels.

Practical Steps for Travelers

If you are planning to travel between Abu Dhabi and Tbilisi, here are some practical steps:

  1. Check Flight Availability: Visit Etihad Airways’ official website to see available flights and book tickets.
  2. Review Visa Requirements: Make sure you have the right visa for your trip. Georgia offers visa-free or simplified visa processes for many Gulf countries. For official information, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.
  3. Plan Your Trip: Take advantage of the new flight options to plan your travel dates and connections.
  4. Monitor Updates: Stay informed about any changes in flight schedules or entry requirements by checking official announcements from Etihad Airways and the Georgian Ministry of Economy.

Summary Table: Etihad’s Tbilisi Launch

DetailInformation
Start DateMarch 1, 2026
Frequency14 flights per week (twice daily)
Booking AvailabilityOpen (as of July 2025)
Permit StatusRegulatory process begins late 2025
Current CompetitorAir Arabia Abu Dhabi (7 flights/week)
2025 Gulf Arrivals500,000+ (Jan–Jun, +17% YoY)
Stakeholder Quote“High level of trust in Georgia” – GAA
Official Websitewww.etihad.com

Official Resources

Conclusion and Next Steps

Etihad Airways’ entry into Georgia’s aviation market is a major step forward for both countries. The new flights between Abu Dhabi and Tbilisi will offer more choices, better service, and improved connections for travelers. Georgia is set to benefit from increased tourism, trade, and investment, while Etihad Airways strengthens its position as a leading global carrier.

Travelers, businesses, and the wider community should take advantage of these new opportunities. By staying informed and planning ahead, everyone can benefit from the growing ties between Georgia and the United Arab Emirates. For the latest updates, keep an eye on official announcements from Etihad Airways and the Georgian Ministry of Economy.

Learn Today

Etihad Airways → The national airline of the UAE, known for full-service, premium international flights.
Direct flights → Nonstop airline services between two cities without intermediate stops or connections.
Permit process → Regulatory approval required before an airline can operate a new route.
Gulf region → Countries in the Arabian Gulf, including UAE, major source of travelers to Georgia.
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi → A low-cost carrier currently operating seven direct weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Tbilisi.

This Article in a Nutshell

Etihad Airways is expanding its network by launching twice-daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Tbilisi from March 2026. This move doubles service options, enhances connectivity, and supports Georgia’s growing tourism market. The launch follows rising Gulf travel demand and strengthens trade and cultural ties between the UAE and Georgia.
— By VisaVerge.com

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Jim Grey
Senior Editor
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Jim Grey serves as the Senior Editor at VisaVerge.com, where his expertise in editorial strategy and content management shines. With a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of the immigration and travel sectors, Jim plays a pivotal role in refining and enhancing the website's content. His guidance ensures that each piece is informative, engaging, and aligns with the highest journalistic standards.
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