Etihad Airways resumes Abu Dhabi-Nairobi direct flights

By Steve UMIDHA

Etihad Airways has resumed flights to Nairobi in a move that is expected to enhance connectivity between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kenya, with the resumption marking a significant milestone in the aviation landscape.

The resumption was first announced in August 2024, which took effect on the December 15. The airline further announced that from next year it will launch new routes to Tunis, Tunisia; Algiers, Algeria; and Al Alamein, Egypt.

Etihad, which is a national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), was serving four African destinations including Johannesburg, South Africa; Cairo, Egypt; Mahe, Seychelles; and Casablanca, Morocco.

“We are committed to growing our network in Africa and doubling our destinations over the next year. We are expanding our frequencies, including boosting both Johannesburg and Casablanca to daily services from next summer,” said Arik De, Etihad’s chief revenue and commercial officer.

The airline said that the 2025 expansion drive will connect its guests across the continent with its growing network and bring them to “our fantastic home in Abu Dhabi.”

Currently, Etihad Airways serves four cities with 39 frequencies a week. By next summer, the number is expected increase to 50 frequencies a week to six cities, and 57 frequencies a week to eight cities by December.

Meanwhile, Radisson Blu Hotel, Upper Hill emerged the best business hotel in this year’s KeTIBA awards, with Brussels Airlines voted the best new Airline and Jambo jet nominated the best domestic Airline.

The best travel technology firm went to Amadeus, while NCBA Insurance formerly AIG Kenya was voted the best insurance provider with the best Small- Size Travel Agency awarded Goodhope Travel and Tours. Similarly, Abdulrazak Khalfin was recognised and awarded with the Lifetime Achievement Award.