Etihad starts Abu Dhabi–Al Alamein flights: UAE travellers get new beach escape option

Abu Dhabi: Etihad Airways launched a new seasonal route connecting Abu Dhabi to Al Alamein on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast, with twice-weekly flights now operating every Thursday and Sunday.

The new service aims to tap into growing demand for summer leisure travel from the UAE and the wider Gulf region. Al Alamein, located west of Alexandria, is increasingly being positioned as an emerging beach destination, offering a mix of upscale resorts, coastal attractions, and quieter alternatives to Egypt’s traditional tourist hubs.

Etihad’s new route is part of its broader network expansion strategy to cater to high-demand seasonal destinations. The service is operated using the airline’s Airbus A320 aircraft, which includes eight Business class seats and 150 in Economy.

“With this launch, Etihad adds another direct connection to Egypt, supporting the country’s tourism ambitions while providing UAE travellers with more summer holiday options closer to home,” the airline said in a statement.

The flight timings are designed to cater to weekend breaks and longer summer getaways, with a short flight time between Abu Dhabi and Al Alamein.

Etihad’s move aligns with the wider trend of Gulf carriers expanding seasonal operations to coastal cities around the Mediterranean, capitalising on the region’s increasing appeal to Middle Eastern travellers seeking leisure experiences without long-haul travel.