ABU DHABI— Etihad Airways (EY) has confirmed its return to Zanzibar (ZNZ) for the 2026 summer season, expanding leisure travel options from Abu Dhabi (AUH).
The Abu Dhabi-based carrier announced that the new seasonal flights will commence in June 2025 and will be operated twice a week with modern Airbus A320 aircraft.
Etihad Adds Seasonal Zanzibar Service
Etihad Airways will operate its Zanzibar flights from June through September 2026. The twice-weekly schedule is designed to align with peak holiday travel demand.
This route provides travelers with a direct link between the capital of the United Arab Emirates and one of East Africa’s most popular islands.
The Airbus A320 fleet selected for the route offers a two-class configuration, ensuring passengers can choose between Business Class comfort and Economy Class affordability.
This service highlights the growing importance of Africa within Etihad’s broader network expansion.
Expanding Leisure Travel Options
The new Zanzibar route caters to travelers seeking both cultural exploration and relaxation. Zanzibar, known for its pristine beaches, historical Stone Town, and rich spice heritage, remains a top choice for holidaymakers from the Middle East and beyond.
Here are a few highlights of this archipelago:
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Beaches | White-sand beaches like Nungwi and Kendwa with turquoise waters |
| History & Culture | Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with winding alleys and old forts |
| Marine Life | World-class snorkeling and diving at Mnemba Atoll and Prison Island |
| Festivals | Sauti za Busara music festival and Mwaka Kogwa cultural celebrations |
| Wildlife | Jozani Forest with the rare red colobus monkey |
| Adventure | Dhow sailing, kitesurfing, and deep-sea fishing |
| Heritage Sites | The House of Wonders, Old Fort, and Sultan’s Palace |
Etihad’s return to Zanzibar is expected to benefit both tourism and trade. The additional air links not only encourage inbound visitors but also strengthen bilateral travel between the UAE and Tanzania.
The airline’s decision to launch seasonal flights is backed by increasing interest in sustainable tourism across Africa, noted the carrier:
Zanzibar becomes Etihad’s 30th destination, announced this year…Zanzibar is now more accessible than ever for guests from Europe and the GCC. The seasonal service taps into strong summer demand for the destination from across these regions and complements Etihad’s growing global network.
Zanzibar’s resorts and cultural attractions continue to draw international travelers, and Etihad’s direct flights offer a valuable boost to the island’s economy.
Bottom Line
Etihad Airways has been focusing on enhancing the passenger experience through optimized schedules and modern aircraft deployment.
The choice of the Airbus A320 ensures operational efficiency while offering a reliable service for leisure travelers.
The launch of these summer flights reflects Etihad’s ongoing commitment to balance premium service with competitive offerings in the leisure market.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
