Gothenburg, Sweden. Photo: Shutterstock Etihad Airways is set to launch a new seasonal route between Abu Dhabi and Gothenburg, Sweden, creating the Swedish city's first direct air connection with the United Arab Emirates.
The new service will begin on December 17, 2026, and operate four times a week through March 21, 2027. The route will be operated with Etihad's Airbus A321LR, adding Gothenburg to the airline's growing international network.
Etihad Airways. Photo: kamilpetran / Shutterstock.com
The new connection is expected to improve access between western Sweden and the Middle East while also providing convenient one-stop connections through Abu Dhabi to destinations across India and Asia.
For travelers from Gothenburg, Etihad's Abu Dhabi hub offers onward connections to popular destinations including Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Singapore, Hanoi, Bali, Shanghai, Taipei, Bengaluru and Colombo.
The route also gives passengers the option to turn a connection in Abu Dhabi into a short city break. Eligible Etihad passengers can use the airline's complimentary Abu Dhabi Stopover program to add a hotel stay of up to two nights before continuing their journey.
Abu Dhabi. Photo: Sergey_Bogomyako / Shutterstock.com
Visitors can explore attractions including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Saadiyat Cultural District, Jubail mangroves and Yas Island. Dubai is also around 45 minutes from Abu Dhabi, giving travelers access to another major destination in the UAE.
The Gothenburg route will be operated by Etihad's Airbus A321LR, the newest aircraft in the airline's fleet.
The aircraft is configured with two First Suites, 14 Business Class seats and 144 Economy seats. First and Business Class passengers receive fully flat beds and direct aisle access, while Economy features ergonomic seats and 13.3-inch 4K entertainment screens.
High-speed Wi-Fi will also be available across all cabins.
Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves said the A321LR makes it possible to introduce the airline's three-cabin product on a route suited to Gothenburg's market.
The new service will also strengthen connectivity for businesses and travelers in western Sweden, particularly those traveling to the Middle East, India and Southeast Asia.
Mats Johannesson, CEO of Swedavia Airports, said the airport operator was looking forward to welcoming Etihad, describing the service as the first direct connection between Gothenburg and the UAE.
For travelers heading in the opposite direction, Gothenburg offers access to Sweden's west coast, with its maritime setting, nearby archipelago, seafood scene, Haga district and Liseberg amusement park.
Gothenburg becomes the 15th new destination Etihad has launched in 2026, further expanding the airline's international network through its Abu Dhabi hub.