Etihad Airways
Abu Dhabi airline and cargo
Industry:Aviation
Year Founded:Operations commenced November 2003
Headquarters Location:Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Major Achievements:In 2024, Etihad delivered a record US$476 million profit (tripled from 2023) on nearly US$6.9 billion revenue, flying 18.5 million passengers (up 32%). The airline is preparing for an IPO, including an expansion to over 125 destinations by 2030 under its “Journey 2030” strategy. Recently, it surpassed 20.3 million passengers in a 12-month span.
Etihad Airways, established in 2003, is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates and Abu Dhabi’s flagship carrier. Headquartered in Khalifa City, near Abu Dhabi International Airport, Etihad has grown rapidly to become the UAE’s second-largest airline, operating an extensive network of passenger and cargo flights to destinations across six continents. Etihad offers a full range of passenger services, including First, Business, and Economy Class, designed to cater to premium, corporate, and leisure travelers. Its cabin experience emphasizes comfort, luxury, and innovation, with features such as fully flat beds, private suites, and award-winning in-flight entertainment systems. In 2025, the airline has continued expanding its fleet retrofits and introduced long-haul routes to new global destinations, enhancing connectivity for Abu Dhabi residents and international travelers alike. Etihad Cargo complements its passenger network by offering specialized air freight services. It handles a wide range of goods, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, automotive parts, and high-value cargo. The cargo division operates dedicated freighters and leverages belly-hold capacity on passenger aircraft, providing flexible and efficient solutions for global trade and logistics partners. The airline operates a modern fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, including the A350, A380, and 787 Dreamliner, supported by ongoing investments in fleet modernization. Etihad serves over 100 destinations worldwide, connecting the UAE to key business hubs, tourist hotspots, and emerging markets. Etihad has built strong global alliances, codeshare agreements, and joint ventures, enhancing its international network and operational efficiency. These collaborations strengthen the airline’s position in the competitive aviation sector and enable seamless travel experiences for passengers. Etihad invests in sustainable aviation initiatives, digital transformation, and customer-centric innovations. From reducing carbon emissions to upgrading digital platforms and introducing AI-driven services, the airline is committed to delivering safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible air travel.