Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi (UAE), has announced a major expansion of its route network. Starting in March 2026, the airline will launch regular flights to six new destinations across Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia.

These include Tashkent (Uzbekistan), Almaty (Kazakhstan), Baku (Azerbaijan), Bucharest (Romania), Tbilisi (Georgia), and Yerevan (Armenia).

In addition, as early as November 2025, Etihad will begin flights to Medina (Saudi Arabia). According to the airline’s official statement, ticket sales for the new destinations will open in the coming days.

With these additions, Etihad is significantly expanding its footprint in key regions, including the CIS, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. The new routes are intended to strengthen the airline’s market position amid growing competition and shifting regional dynamics.

The announcement comes shortly after budget carrier Wizz Air revealed it would shut down its Abu Dhabi subsidiary on September 1, 2025, citing operational difficulties. These include geopolitical instability, frequent airspace closures, and engine issues exacerbated by the extreme heat and high dust levels in the Persian Gulf region.

Against this backdrop, Etihad’s decision to expand its route network can be seen as a strategic move to fill the market gap left by Wizz Air’s withdrawal. It also forms part of a broader long-term strategy aimed at diversifying destinations and attracting transit passengers through its Abu Dhabi hub.