Etihad Airways to hire 1,500 employees in 2025 recruitment drive

Key Takeaways

• Etihad Airways plans to hire 1,500 employees in 2025 to support rapid fleet and route expansion.
• UAE employment visas include standard work permits, Golden Visas for skilled staff, and short-term mission visas.
• Processing time from job offer to work authorization averages 4–8 weeks, with Etihad covering visa-related costs.

Etihad Airways’ 2025 Recruitment Drive: A Comprehensive Guide to Employment Immigration

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪, is making headlines with its ambitious plan to hire an additional 1,500 employees in 2025. This major recruitment drive is part of the airline’s broader “Journey 2030” vision, which aims to double its fleet and triple passenger numbers by the end of the decade. For job seekers around the world, this expansion presents a unique opportunity to build a career with one of the Middle East’s leading airlines. However, for most international candidates, securing a job with Etihad Airways also means understanding the employment immigration process in the UAE.

This guide provides a detailed overview of the visa types available for Etihad Airways employees, eligibility criteria, the application process, processing times, employer requirements, and real-world examples to help you understand what to expect. Whether you’re a pilot, cabin crew member, engineer, or technical specialist, this resource will help you take practical steps toward joining Etihad’s growing team.

Etihad Airways’ 2025 Recruitment Drive: Who Are They Hiring?

Etihad Airways’ plan to hire 1,500 new employees in 2025 is driven by rapid fleet and route expansion. According to the airline’s latest financial results, nearly 1,000 new staff were already hired in the first quarter of 2025, including pilots, cabin crew, and technical staff. The recruitment drive targets several key areas:

• Pilots: All ranks, for Airbus A320, A350, A380, and Boeing 777, 787, and 777 freighter aircraft.
• Cabin Crew: Candidates from diverse backgrounds; the current team represents 112 nationalities.
• Technical Staff: Mechanics, engineers, and other specialists to support fleet operations.
• Emirati Nationals: Through the KHUTWATY 2025 career fair and other initiatives, Etihad aims to enroll over 1,000 UAE nationals in various roles over the next five years.

This expansion is closely tied to Etihad’s plan to add 15 new aircraft in 2025 and serve 16 new destinations, including Bali, Jaipur, and several European cities.

Employment Immigration: Visa Types for Etihad Airways Employees

If you’re considering a career with Etihad Airways and you’re not a UAE citizen, you’ll need to secure the appropriate work authorization. The UAE 🇦🇪 has a structured immigration system for foreign workers, with several visa types relevant to airline employees:

1. UAE Employment Visa (Work Permit)

This is the standard visa for most foreign employees in the UAE. It allows you to live and work in the country for a specific employer, such as Etihad Airways.

Key Features:
– Valid for two years (renewable)
– Tied to the sponsoring employer
– Allows dependents (spouse, children) to join under a family visa

2. Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit (5 or 10 years) for highly skilled professionals, including pilots, engineers, and other specialists. While most new hires start with a standard employment visa, some senior or highly qualified staff may be eligible for the Golden Visa.

Key Features:
– Not tied to a single employer
– Allows for business ownership and investment
– Family members can be included

3. Mission Visa

This is a short-term work visa (up to 6 months) for temporary assignments. It’s less common for full-time airline staff but may be used for consultants or trainers.

Official UAE government information on work visas can be found at the UAE Government Portal.

Eligibility Criteria for Etihad Airways Employment Visas

To qualify for a UAE employment visa through Etihad Airways, candidates must meet both general immigration requirements and specific job criteria set by the airline.

General Immigration Requirements

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months.
• Medical Fitness: All applicants must pass a UAE medical fitness test (including blood tests and chest X-ray).
• Security Clearance: Background checks are conducted for all foreign workers.
• Age: Minimum age is typically 18, but Etihad requires cabin crew to be at least 21.

Etihad Airways Job Requirements

• Pilots: Valid commercial pilot license, type ratings for relevant aircraft, minimum flight hours (varies by rank), and English proficiency.
• Cabin Crew: High school certificate or higher, excellent English skills, ability to swim, and customer service experience preferred.
• Technical Staff: Relevant technical qualifications, certifications, and experience in aviation maintenance or engineering.
• Emirati Nationals: Must meet role-specific criteria; additional programs are available for UAE citizens.

Note: Etihad Airways provides detailed job descriptions and requirements for each position on its official careers page.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Securing a job with Etihad Airways as a foreign national involves several steps, from initial application to visa stamping. Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Job Application and Selection

• Apply Online: Submit your application via the Etihad Airways careers portal.
• Assessment: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews, assessments, or recruitment events (e.g., First Officer events in Italy, Spain, and the UK).
• Offer Letter: Successful candidates receive a formal job offer.

2. Work Permit Approval

• Employer Initiates Process: Etihad Airways applies for your work permit (also called a labor card) through the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
• Entry Permit Issued: Once approved, you receive an entry permit (valid for 60 days) to enter the UAE.

3. Arrival and Medical Testing

• Arrive in the UAE: Travel to Abu Dhabi using your entry permit.
• Medical Fitness Test: Complete required medical exams at an authorized UAE health center.
• Emirates ID Application: Submit biometrics and documents for your Emirates ID card.

4. Residence Visa Stamping

• Visa Stamping: After passing the medical test, your passport is submitted for residence visa stamping.
• Emirates ID Issued: Once your residence visa is approved, you receive your Emirates ID, which serves as your official identification in the UAE.

5. Onboarding and Training

• Relocation Support: Etihad provides relocation assistance, including hotel accommodation for the first month.
• Training: Attend mandatory training programs for your role (e.g., safety training for cabin crew).

For more details on the UAE employment visa process, visit the UAE Government’s official employment visa page.

Processing Times and Costs

Understanding the timeline and costs involved is crucial for planning your move to the UAE.

Processing Times

• Job Application and Selection: 2–8 weeks, depending on the role and volume of applicants.
• Work Permit Approval: 1–2 weeks after job offer acceptance.
• Entry Permit Issuance: 3–7 days.
• Medical Test and Emirates ID: 3–5 days after arrival.
• Residence Visa Stamping: 5–10 days.

Total estimated time from job offer to full work authorization: 4–8 weeks.

Costs

• Visa and Permit Fees: Typically covered by Etihad Airways for direct hires.
• Medical Test: Paid by the employer.
• Emirates ID: Included in the onboarding package.
• Relocation Expenses: Etihad provides relocation support, including initial accommodation.

Important: Avoid third-party agencies that ask for payment to secure a job or visa with Etihad Airways. The airline does not charge candidates for recruitment.

Employer Requirements: What Etihad Airways Must Do

As a sponsoring employer, Etihad Airways is responsible for:

• Applying for Work Permits: Submitting all necessary documents to MOHRE and immigration authorities.
• Ensuring Compliance: Meeting UAE labor laws, including contract terms, salary, and benefits.
• Providing Medical Insurance: Covering employees under a valid health insurance plan.
• Renewing Visas: Managing timely renewal of work permits and residence visas.
• Supporting Dependents: Assisting with family visa applications if needed.

Employers must also maintain accurate records and report any changes in employment status to UAE authorities.

Case Studies: Real-World Scenarios

To illustrate how the process works in practice, here are two examples based on typical Etihad Airways hires:

Case Study 1: International Pilot from Spain

Background: Maria, a First Officer with 3,000 flight hours on Airbus A320, applies for a pilot position at Etihad Airways.

Process:
– Maria attends a recruitment event in Madrid.
– After passing assessments, she receives a job offer.
– Etihad applies for her work permit and entry permit.
– Maria travels to Abu Dhabi, completes her medical test, and receives her residence visa and Emirates ID.
– She begins training and receives relocation support, including hotel accommodation and a housing allowance.

Outcome: Maria’s entire process, from job offer to starting work, takes about six weeks. Her family joins her in Abu Dhabi under dependent visas.

Case Study 2: Cabin Crew Member from the Philippines

Background: John, a 25-year-old with customer service experience, applies for a cabin crew role.

Process:
– John submits his application online and is invited for an interview.
– He receives an offer and Etihad initiates his visa process.
– After arriving in Abu Dhabi, John completes his medical test and receives his Emirates ID.
– Etihad provides fully furnished accommodation and medical insurance.

Outcome: John starts his new role within two months of applying, enjoying tax-free salary and travel benefits.

Benefits and Opportunities for Etihad Airways Employees

Etihad Airways offers a range of benefits to attract and retain top talent:

• Tax-Free Salary: Competitive pay with no income tax.
• Medical and Life Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for employees.
• Housing and Schooling Allowances: Support for accommodation and children’s education.
• Relocation Support: Assistance with moving to Abu Dhabi, including initial hotel stay.
• Travel Benefits: Discounted tickets for employees, family, and friends.
• Career Development: Opportunities for promotion and internal mobility.
• Diversity and Inclusion: A multicultural workforce representing over 100 nationalities.

For cabin crew, additional benefits include fully furnished accommodation and allowances for flying hours and layovers.

Practical Guidance: Next Steps for Job Seekers

If you’re interested in joining Etihad Airways during its 2025 recruitment drive, here’s what you can do:

1. Check Eligibility: Review job requirements and ensure you meet both Etihad’s and UAE’s criteria.
2. Prepare Documents: Update your CV, gather educational and professional certificates, and ensure your passport is valid.
3. Apply Online: Submit your application through the Etihad Airways careers portal.
4. Attend Assessments: Be ready for interviews, assessments, or recruitment events.
5. Understand the Visa Process: Familiarize yourself with the UAE employment visa process and required documents.
6. Plan for Relocation: Consider housing, schooling (if applicable), and cultural adaptation.
7. Stay Informed: Monitor official Etihad Airways communications and government resources for updates.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, Etihad’s robust recruitment and immigration support make it one of the most attractive employers for aviation professionals seeking international experience.

Conclusion

Etihad Airways’ plan to hire 1,500 new employees in 2025 is a significant opportunity for aviation professionals worldwide. The airline’s comprehensive recruitment drive, supported by strong financial performance and ambitious growth targets, means that skilled pilots, cabin crew, and technical staff are in high demand. Understanding the UAE’s employment immigration process is essential for a smooth transition, and Etihad’s structured support ensures that new hires can focus on building their careers.

For more information on UAE employment visas, visit the official UAE Government Portal. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can take confident action toward joining Etihad Airways and advancing your career in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.

Learn Today

Employment Visa → A UAE visa allowing foreigners to live and work legally for a specific employer like Etihad Airways.
Golden Visa → Long-term UAE residence permit for highly skilled professionals, offering business ownership and family inclusion.
Work Permit → Authorization issued by UAE Ministry allowing employment; tied to the sponsoring employer and renewable.
Residence Visa Stamping → Process of officially endorsing a visa into a passport to legalize residency in the UAE.
Entry Permit → Temporary visa valid for 60 days to enter the UAE before obtaining a work visa.

This Article in a Nutshell

Etihad Airways is recruiting 1,500 employees in 2025, offering diverse roles and comprehensive visa support. International candidates must understand UAE immigration requirements and follow a step-by-step hiring process for a smooth career start in Abu Dhabi’s expanding aviation sector.
— By VisaVerge.com

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