Etihad Airways to launch seasonal Dhaka service

The new route responds to strong and sustained demand for travel and cargo between the UAE and Bangladesh, while strengthening trade and logistics links across the South Asia corridor. The four-times weekly flights to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) will enhance connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Bangladesh, supporting both passenger and cargo flows through Abu Dhabi as a key gateway to international markets.

Flight and capacity details

The service will be operated by Etihad’s Boeing 777 aircraft, offering 28 Business and 374 Economy seats. The widebody aircraft will provide significant bellyhold capacity to support growing cargo volumes, particularly benefiting Bangladesh’s garment and textile sector. This addition forms part of Etihad’s phased approach to rebuilding and expanding its network, with capacity aligned to market demand.

Strategic and economic benefits

Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad CEO, highlighted that the Dhaka route is strategically important for trade, family travel, and connectivity across South Asia. The service will support export-driven industries, provide direct access for the Bangladeshi diaspora in the UAE, the UK, Italy, and North America, and enhance Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub linking Bangladesh with global markets. The route will benefit both point-to-point passengers and those connecting onward via Abu Dhabi.