Photo: Shutterstock The national airline of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Airways, announced today, January 9, 2026, that it will open a new route to Luxembourg.
The news is even more noteworthy as it marks the first time in history that a Middle Eastern airline will operate flights to the country, offering direct flights between Luxembourg and Abu Dhabi. Service will begin on October 29, 2026, with flights operating three times a week.
The new route is designed to meet growing demand from passengers in Luxembourg, France, and Germany seeking direct access to the UAE capital. The flights will land at Luxembourg Airport and provide a direct connection to Abu Dhabi, one of the largest tourist and cultural centers in the Gulf.
Photo: ShutterstockThe flights will be operated on Etihad’s A321LR aircraft that feature three classes, including First Suites and Business Class with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access. Economy Class features premium seats, 4K touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity, and high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the flight.
The new route is expected to strengthen business and cultural ties between the EU and the UAE, and serve as a convenient gateway for business and leisure travellers alike. Luxembourg also serves as a gateway to neighbouring regions in France, Germany, and Belgium, and the move strengthens Etihad's presence in the European market. In addition, the new route will provide convenient connections via Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi to many destinations in Asia and India, as part of Etihad's global network of destinations. Flights are already on sale on the company's website.
Etihad also recently announced a historic milestone: for the first time since its inception, the company will operate a scheduled airline route with six daily flights.