One of the leading airlines in the region, Etihad Airways will double its flights between Abu Dhabi and Kabul starting from 15 July 2026, following strong demand and rapid growth on the route since its launch. The airline will introduce a second daily service in both directions to meet increasing passenger demand and enhance connectivity.
Kabul joined the Etihad network in March 2026, initially operating four times weekly. Demand has significantly exceeded expectations, with strong take-up from both point-to-point travellers and those using Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport as a hub to connect onwards to Europe and beyond.
The route is flown by Airbus A320 aircraft configured with eight Business and 150 Economy seats. With double-daily flights now in place, travellers between Afghanistan and the UAE will have considerably more choice over departure times, whether travelling for family, business or leisure.
Afghanistan has longstanding ties with the UAE, which is home to one of the Gulf’s largest Afghan communities. For the hundreds of thousands of Afghans living and working across the country, as well as those with business and trade connections between the two nations, the expanded schedule offers a more flexible and better-connected service.
Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said: “The response to our Kabul launch has been exceptional. Demand has remained strong from day one, and moving to double-daily is a direct reflection of what our guests have been telling us with their bookings.
“This rapid expansion is another example of the strategic approach we take to network development, allowing us to respond quickly to the wishes of our guests, and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s rile as an important gateway connecting regional markets with our global network.”
