Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, the second flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has announced plans to expand its services to South Africa starting in 2025. The airline will increase its flight frequency between Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg during the Northern Hemisphere summer season, strengthening connectivity between the two hubs.
Etihad Airways is launching four weekly return services between Abu Dhabi and Johannesburg on 30 March 2025. The flights will be scheduled for Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays. By the end of August 2025, Etihad Airways will offer daily flights on this route, giving travelers more flexibility and convenience.
The expanded schedule looks like this:
- Flight EY747 departs Abu Dhabi at 2:20 am and arrives at Johannesburg at 8:35 am.
- Flight EY748 departs Johannesburg at 9:55 am and arrives in Abu Dhabi by 19:50 pm.
Etihad Airways is committed to meeting the increasing demand for travel between South Africa and the UAE, as part of its strategy to improve connectivity with key markets around the world. The expansion of this route is a great way for African travel agencies to tap into the growing number of travelers who are looking for leisure and/or business opportunities in both these dynamic destinations.
Etihad Airways’ decision of strengthening its presence in South Africa coincides with the increasing interest in tourism, trade and investment between the Middle East Africa. Johannesburg, as the major gateway to Southern Africa is a popular destination for UAE nationals and travelers from around the world connecting through Abu Dhabi. The daily flights are also aimed at the growing South African Diaspora in the UAE, and the increasing number South Africans who visit Abu Dhabi for its cultural and commercial attractions.
Moreover, the route expansion allows African travelers to seamlessly connect with Etihad Airways’ extensive global network which includes Europe, Asia and North America. South African travelers can access new markets with shorter layovers through Abu Dhabi. UAE travelers will also have easier access to Johannesburg, and other popular destinations in South Africa, such as safaris and cultural attractions.
This announcement is strategically timed, as air travel demand has continued to recover and grow since the pandemic. South Africa, for example, has seen a surge in inbound tourism. The country’s natural beauty and wildlife experiences, as well as its vibrant cities, have attracted visitors from around the world. Abu Dhabi is also gaining in popularity as a destination that offers luxury tourism, world class shopping, and cultural experiences.
Etihad Airways’ expanded service offers African travel agents an opportunity to offer their clients more travel options between the Middle East, Southern Africa and Europe. The increased frequency of flights and the daily flights starting in August 2025 make travel easier for all travelers, whether it is for leisure, business or connecting flights. The airline’s reputation as a provider of premium service and seamless connectivity ensures that passengers have a better travel experience.
Etihad Airways’ expansion not just enhances connectivity, it also highlights the deepening relationships between the UAE and South Africa. The airline will play a major role in promoting tourism, trade and cultural exchanges between the two regions. As the launch of 2025 nears, African travel professionals need to be prepared to leverage the new offering to connect travelers to exciting opportunities on either side of the route.
