Etihad Airways is set to make aviation history this autumn as it becomes the first airline from the Middle East to launch direct flights to Luxembourg.
Starting 29 October 2026, the UAE’s national carrier will inaugurate a new nonstop service between Abu Dhabi and Luxembourg, marking a significant milestone in regional connectivity and international aviation.
The New Flights to Luxembourg…
The new route will operate three times weekly, offering the only direct air link between the Grand Duchy and the UAE capital.
This strategic move not only positions Etihad as a pioneer in Luxembourg’s aviation landscape but also responds to growing demand from travellers across the Benelux region, France, and Germany for seamless access to the Middle East.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways, described the launch as a landmark moment:
“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.”
“This route is about more than connectivity – it is about building new bridges between Europe and the UAE, unlocking opportunities for business, tourism and cultural exchange.”
The service will be operated by Etihad’s cutting-edge Airbus A321LR, a narrowbody aircraft configured in a premium three-class layout.
Passengers can expect an elevated onboard experience, with First Suites offering privacy and luxury, lie-flat Business Class seats with direct aisle access, and next-generation Economy seating featuring generous legroom, 4K touchscreen entertainment, Bluetooth pairing, and high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the cabin.
The timing of the flights is tailored to suit both business and leisure travellers.
EY 51 will depart Abu Dhabi at 02:45 local time, arriving in Luxembourg at 06:55, while the return flight EY 52 leaves Luxembourg at 09:35, landing in Abu Dhabi at 19:05.
Benefits of the Flights with Etihad Airways…
These schedules allow for productive day trips and smooth onward connections via Etihad’s global network through Zayed International Airport.
For business travellers, the route offers direct access between two financial hubs—Luxembourg, known for its banking and investment sectors, and Abu Dhabi, a rising centre for finance and innovation in the Middle East.
Leisure travellers, meanwhile, will benefit from easy access to Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural tapestry, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and the newly opened Zayed National Museum and Natural History Museum.
Yas Island’s theme parks and the emirate’s pristine beaches further enhance its appeal as a year-round destination.
Conversely, the route opens up Luxembourg to travellers from the UAE and beyond. Known for its fairytale castles, UNESCO-listed Old Town, and lush valleys, Luxembourg offers a blend of historic charm and modern sophistication.
Its central location also makes it a convenient gateway to neighbouring France, Germany, and Belgium.
The launch of this route underscores Etihad’s commitment to expanding its European footprint.
Luxembourg joins a growing list of destinations served by the airline, reflecting its strategy to connect underserved markets with premium travel options.
The deployment of the A321LR—a long-range, fuel-efficient aircraft—enables Etihad to reach new cities while maintaining its high standards of service and sustainability.
Flights are now available for booking, with the inaugural service set to take off on 29 October 2026.
As Etihad continues to redefine regional connectivity, this new route promises to strengthen ties between Europe and the Middle East, offering travellers a new bridge between cultures, economies, and experiences.
Continue to follow The Aviation Hub for more analysis and insight!
