Etihad Airways, t
he national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced a significant expansion of its operations in Pakistan with the launch of direct flights to Peshawar, one of the country’s major regional hubs. This move marks a strategic step in deepening Etihad’s presence in South Asia, enhancing travel options for passengers while fostering stronger economic and cultural ties between the UAE and Pakistan.
The new service, scheduled to commence in the coming weeks, will connect Abu Dhabi International Airport directly with Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar. Etihad will operate several flights per week, offering both business and economy class options. The addition of Peshawar brings the total number of Pakistani cities served by Etihad to five, alongside Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, and Multan.
Speaking on the launch, Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer of Etihad Airways, said: Pakistan is a key market for us, and we’re pleased to meet the growing demand for direct connectivity from Peshawar to the UAE. This new route will serve the large Pakistani diaspora in the Gulf, facilitate family visits, and promote greater trade and tourism between the two nations.
Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, is a bustling center of commerce, culture, and history. With a large number of residents having close ties to the UAE either through family or work the route is expected to be highly popular, particularly among expatriate workers and those traveling for religious or personal reasons.
Travel industry analysts have welcomed the move, noting that it comes at a time of growing air travel demand in the region. Etihad’s expansion into Peshawar is a smart move, said travel analyst Faizan Khan. There’s a strong market for Gulf-bound flights from secondary Pakistani cities, and this route will give travelers more flexibility and better access to international connections via Abu Dhabi.
The new route also aligns with Etihad’s broader strategy to solidify its footprint in high-growth markets while leveraging Abu Dhabi’s position as a key transit hub. Passengers flying from Peshawar will gain access to Etihad’s extensive global network, connecting them to destinations across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia with seamless transfers.
In preparation for the route launch, Etihad has been working closely with aviation authorities in Pakistan and the UAE to ensure operational readiness and compliance with regulatory standards. The airline has also committed to maintaining the highest levels of safety, hygiene, and customer service on the new route.
Ticket bookings for the Peshawar-Abu Dhabi route are now open through Etihad’s website, mobile app, and travel partners. Early promotions and introductory fares are expected to attract strong interest, particularly during the peak travel season leading into the summer.
This latest move underscores Etihad Airways’ commitment to the Pakistani market and reflects its ongoing efforts to provide world-class connectivity to travelers across the region.
