Etihad Airways will double flights between Abu Dhabi and Kabul from July 15, 2026, after strong demand from travellers and connecting passengers

Etihad Airways will double its flights between Abu Dhabi and Kabul from July 15, 2026, after demand on the route significantly exceeded expectations following its launch earlier this year.

The airline said it will introduce a second daily service in each direction, less than four months after Kabul joined the Etihad network in March 2026.

The UAE is home to one of the Gulf’s largest Afghan communities, making reliable air connectivity important for residents travelling between the two countries.

The route also supports business and trade links, with Abu Dhabi acting as a connecting hub for passengers travelling beyond the UAE.

Arik De, Etihad’s Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, said the airline had seen strong demand since the route opened.

“The response to our Kabul launch has been exceptional. Demand has remained strong from day one, and moving to double-daily is a direct reflection of what our guests have been telling us with their bookings,” he said.

Etihad said the frequency increase is part of its network strategy, allowing the airline to respond quickly where demand is building.

“This rapid expansion is another example of the strategic approach we take to network development, allowing us to respond quickly to the wishes of our guests and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s role as an important gateway connecting regional markets with our global network,” De said.

The second daily Kabul service marks the route’s second frequency increase since flights began in March, pointing to stronger-than-expected demand within four months of launch.

Source: Arabian Business/Gulf News