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Etihad Airways said in a statement that the launch of daily nonstop service to Tashkent marks a significant step in its network growth, which has included 27 new routes announced or started in a single year. The national carrier of the United Arab Emirates framed the route as a response to rising demand in one of Central Asia’s fastest-expanding aviation markets. Frank Meyer, Etihad’s Chief Digital Officer, stated that the new link positions Abu Dhabi as a premium gateway for travelers from Uzbekistan to destinations across the GCC, Europe, the Levant and North America.
Meyer added in the statement that Uzbekistan ranks among the region’s most dynamic economies with rich cultural heritage, strong tourism appeal and growing economic importance. The executive noted that the daily frequency will allow seamless connections through Abu Dhabi supported by the airline’s signature premium service. According to the carrier, the route will operate year-round to meet both leisure and business travel needs between the two countries.
The airline’s announcement highlighted a codeshare partnership with Uzbekistan Airways that took effect in May 2026, enabling Etihad passengers to reach eight destinations across Uzbekistan from Tashkent. Those cities include Samarkand, Bukhara, Fergana, Namangan, Andijan, Urgench, Nukus and Termez along with selected international points on the Uzbek carrier’s network. Etihad said the agreement enhances the overall value of the new Abu Dhabi service by providing single-ticket access deeper into the region.
Etihad’s earlier announcement of seven additional destinations, including Tashkent, formed part of a broader push to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s role as a hub for tourism, culture and commerce. The Tashkent route, which began daily operations after initial planning for March, aligns with that strategy by tapping into growing bilateral ties between the UAE and Uzbekistan. Data from the carrier shows the expansion supports point-to-point traffic directly into Abu Dhabi rather than relying solely on traditional transfer patterns.
Meyer stated, “Today’s inaugural flight to Tashkent is a proud moment for Etihad and an important milestone in our continued network expansion.” He continued that by launching the daily nonstop service, “we are opening a new gateway between Central Asia and the world.” The statement described Tashkent as blending rich history with a modern cosmopolitan spirit, from striking architecture and bustling bazaars to new developments and cultural institutions.
The carrier indicated that the service will boost opportunities in trade, investment and people-to-people links, with Abu Dhabi’s attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Saadiyat Island cultural sites and Yas Island entertainment options serving as complementary draws for visitors from Uzbekistan. Etihad’s latest network additions reflect sustained focus on underserved markets where demand for reliable connectivity continues to rise. The inaugural flight celebration on August 10 underscored the airline’s commitment to expanding its footprint in Central Asia through both own-metal operations and strategic partnerships.
