Etihad Airways to Launch Flights to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Coast from October 4

ABU DHABI, September 8, 2026: Etihad Airways will launch direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast starting October 4, 2026, giving travellers easier access to one of the Kingdom’s growing tourism destinations.

The new service will operate through Red Sea International Airport in Tabuk Province, with a flight time of just over three hours from Abu Dhabi.

Passengers travelling from destinations across Etihad Airways’ global network will also be able to reach the Red Sea with one connection through Abu Dhabi. This includes travellers from the Gulf region and the Indian subcontinent.

The Red Sea will become Etihad Airways’ sixth destination in Saudi Arabia, joining Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Medina and Al Qassim.

Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said the new route will make Red Sea holidays more accessible to travellers looking for islands, coral reefs and relaxing beach experiences without the need for a long-haul flight.

Flights between Abu Dhabi and the Red Sea will start with one weekly service from October 4, 2026.

Etihad will increase the service to two flights per week from October 25, 2026.

The new route further expands Etihad Airways’ network in Saudi Arabia and strengthens travel links between the UAE and the Kingdom.