MINISTRY OF ECONOMY
AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
OF GEORGIA

“One of the world’s leading airlines, Etihad Airways, is entering the Georgian aviation market. This is another success for our country and a result of our sound economic policy, including diversification, and recognition of the aviation industry. The entry of such a strong international brand airline into Georgia will further strengthen the country’s recognition and contribute to the further development of the tourism sector” – Mariam Kvrivishvili, Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development declared.

Etihad Airways, an airline from the United Arab Emirates, plans to begin operations on the Abu Dhabi-Tbilisi-Abu Dhabi route starting March 1, 2026, with 14 flights per week. Currently, such airlines as Fly Dubai, Air Arabia, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi operate flights between Georgia and the United Arab Emirates with approximately 49 frequencies per week. According to the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, Etihad Airways’ entry into the Georgian market will significantly contribute to the increase in passenger traffic between Georgia and the United Arab Emirates, as well as between Georgia and the Gulf countries as a whole.

“We have close trade and economic relations with the United Arab Emirates and Etihad Airways’ entry will further contribute to deepening cooperation and increasing the flow of high-spending tourists. Accordingly, this will positively affect the growth of tourism and tourism-related revenues. The Gulf countries are one of the most in-demand aviation destinations. Therefore, Etihad Airways’ flights will be an additional stimulus not only for the aviation sector but also for Georgia’s tourism sector and, as a result, for the entire economy. Our team will do its utmost to ensure that our cooperation and the airline’s operations in Georgia are successful” – Mariam Kvrivishvili noted.

It is worth noting that currently, a record number of over 70 airlines operate in Georgia, serving over 110 destinations worldwide. According to the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, marketing campaigns aimed at attracting new airlines to the Georgian market will continue actively in the future.