Etihad Airways marks 20 years of Johannesburg–Abu Dhabi service.

Etihad carried over 100,000 passengers on the route in 2025 alone, demonstrating the market’s ongoing significance to the airline as well as consistent demand. This December, Etihad Airways will commemorate 20 years of flights between Abu Dhabi and Johannesburg, marking a significant milestone in Africa. Etihad has transported about two million passengers between the United Arab Emirates and South Africa since the route’s inauguration in 2005, strengthening ties between the two countries on a cultural, commercial, and tourism level.

Through Zayed International Airport, Etihad’s services to Johannesburg offer continuous access to the UAE’s capital as well as easy access to the Middle East, Europe, North America, the Indian Subcontinent, and Asia Pacific. Travellers from Johannesburg continue their journey beyond Abu Dhabi to important locations including Jeddah, Istanbul, Mumbai, Bangkok, and Phuket, highlighting the route’s significance as a crucial entry point to Etihad’s worldwide network. Smoother connections throughout the region are made possible by Etihad’s growing partnerships throughout Southern Africa.

For the past 20 years, Johannesburg has been a vital part of Etihad Airways’ African network, according to Javier Alija, Vice President Global Sales & Distribution. “The long-term relationship between the UAE and South Africa, as well as the value Etihad adds in facilitating trade and tourism, are highlighted by the robust performance we continue to observe in both passenger demand and corporate travel. As part of our larger Journey 2030 goals, we are happy to continue supporting Africa, which continues to be a crucial pillar of our worldwide strategy. At a time when Africa is bolstering Etihad’s worldwide network expansion, Johannesburg is celebrating its 20th anniversary. A rapidly expanding number of foreign visitors and strengthening economic and cultural links with the United Arab Emirates have contributed to the continent’s continued robust and resilient demand for travel.” This impetus is reflected in Etihad’s recent network developments.

With the introduction of additional services to major African gateways including Tunis, Addis Ababa, and Nairobi within the last year, the airline has increased its footprint. With access to Etihad’s expanding global network, established connections to places like Casablanca and Cairo continue to operate well. By providing passengers with better access to a wide range of locations around Africa outside of Etihad’s own network, the airline’s strategic alliance with Ethiopian Airlines expands Etihad’s reach throughout the continent. In honour of its 20 years in Johannesburg, Etihad is steadfast in its resolve to increase its footprint throughout Africa by offering better services, forming more extensive alliances, and growing its network to accommodate the continent’s growing demand.