Etihad Airways, has launched first-ever nonstop flights between the UAE and Calgary, creating a new strategic air link between the Middle East and Western Canada.
Launching on 3 November 2026, the service marks another milestone in Etihad’s global expansion, supporting Abu Dhabi’s long-term goals to drive international trade, tourism and investment.
The nonstop route directly connects two globally recognized hubs of energy, innovation and culture, strengthening economic ties and creating new opportunities for both business and leisure travel. It links Abu Dhabi’s fast-growing economy and cultural offering with Calgary’s leadership in energy, advanced manufacturing and innovation, establishing a direct corridor for corporate travel and trade collaboration.
For leisure travelers, the route brings together two highly distinctive destinations. Canadian visitors gain seamless access to Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, coastal resorts and year-round sunshine, while travelers from the UAE and across Etihad’s global network can explore Calgary’s dynamic city life and its role as the gateway to Alberta and the Canadian Rockies, home to some of North America’s most iconic landscapes.
Calgary becomes Etihad’s latest long-haul destination, following recent route announcements including Luxembourg and Palma. Each new addition reflects the airline’s strategy of opening markets with strong economic and tourism relevance, while expanding travel options across its global network.
The route will be operated by Etihad’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, featuring the airline’s latest award-winning widebody Business and Economy cabins. Designed for long-haul comfort, the aircraft delivers Etihad’s signature service, inflight experience and onboard hospitality on one of the longest routes in its network.
Antonoaldo Neves CEO – Etihad Airways
“The launch of our Abu Dhabi–Calgary service is both a significant and historic step in Etihad’s global expansion. By creating the only nonstop link between the Middle East and Western Canada, we are opening new opportunities for trade, tourism and investment, while giving travelers direct access to two distinctive and globally important destinations. This is an exciting announcement for us, bringing together two remarkable places. For Canadian travelers, it opens direct access to Abu Dhabi’s rich culture and year-round experiences, while guests from the UAE and across our network gain seamless access to Calgary and the natural beauty of Western Canada. It is a route designed to stimulate two-way tourism and deepen ties between our regions.”
Chris Dinsdale, President and CEO of Calgary Airports, said that, “Calgary Airports is proud to partner with Etihad Airways to link two great cities. This direct route is key to connecting our region’s leisure and business travelers to important locations in the Middle East, as well as a wealth of linked destinations in Africa, Asia and around the world.”
The launch further strengthens Etihad’s presence in North America, complementing existing services to Toronto, New York and Chicago, as well as Charlotte, due to begin operations in March.
