Size doesn’t matter: Little Luxembourg makes a big impression on Etihad
January 9, 2026
In a surprise move, Etihad is launching direct flights to Luxembourg from the end of October.
Abu Dhabi’s flag-carrying airline, which is currently undergoing a major fleet expansion plan, has made history as the first Middle Eastern carrier to serve the tiny, landlocked country of Luxembourg in western Europe.
The Abu Dhabi-based carrier is currently the only airline in the Middle East to offer nonstop flights between the two destinations.
Why Luxembourg has made a big impression on Etihad
Luxembourg, one of the world’s smallest countries, borders Belgium, France and Germany. The country has a long-standing reputation as a tax haven, making it an appealing choice for high earners and global businesses.
Etihad’s new route reflects the growing demand from travellers across Luxembourg, the Benelux region, France and Germany, with Luxembourg Airport serving as a gateway to the wider region. It will strengthen both economic and cultural ties between the EU and the UAE.
The link will also enable passengers travelling from Luxembourg to take advantage of Etihad’s expansive global network. From its home hub at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, the airline offers onward connections to destinations in Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia and India.
“This route is about more than connectivity – it is about building new bridges between the UAE and Europe, unlocking opportunities for business, tourism and cultural exchange,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways.
The “incredible” A321 serving Luxembourg
The airline will operate flights between the two cities three times weekly on an Airbus A321LR aircraft, featuring a three-class cabin and next-generation seating in economy and high-speed WiFi throughout the cabin.
Neves emphasised, “This incredible aircraft brings our guests a truly premium experience, while allowing us to cater to markets which may otherwise be unserved. For the first time, Luxembourg will be directly connected to the Middle East, with Etihad as the only airline offering a nonstop link to Abu Dhabi.”
Etihad’s wider network expansion
The addition of Luxembourg to Etihad’s network aligns with the airline’s aims to enhance its international footprint and connectivity. The airline places particular emphasis on high-growth markets and cities renowned for their rich cultural value.
Etihad’s expansion plans include the return of direct flights to Damascus, Syria, after a 14-year hiatus. It is also adding seven new destinations across the Gulf, Europe, North America, the Caucasus and Central Asia.
In November 2025, the carrier launched services to Medina in Saudi Arabia and to Kazan in Russia in December. The airline will also launch flights to Baku, Azerbaijan; Yerevan, Armenia; Tbilisi, Georgia; Almaty, Kazakhstan; Bucharest, Romania and Tashkent, Uzbekistan in March 2026.
“Through our Abu Dhabi hub, passengers can enjoy seamless connections to Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, the GCC region and Australia, opening up exceptional travel opportunities across Etihad’s global network,” said Natalia Goryunova, Country Manager Russia at Etihad Airways, speaking at the Kazan launch.
Whether exploring Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, pristine beaches and vibrant dining scene, or connecting onwards, she noted these new air links “open a world of possibilities for travellers in both directions.”
For later in the year, Etihad has its sights set on US expansion with the addition of Charlotte in North Carolina. Meanwhile, the airline is introducing seasonal flights to Krakow, Poland and Salalah, Oman for the summer 2026 season.
The carrier has also confirmed plans to reintroduce an eighth A380 into its fleet with plans to use the iconic double-decker passenger jet to serve Japan in June.
Featured image: Etihad
