Calgary nabs new direct flight route to major city in the Middle East
A United Arab Emirates airline just announced a new flight route coming to YYC that will take you straight to Abu Dhabi.
On Thursday, Etihad Airways announced that starting in November 2026, travellers will be able to take a direct flight from YYC Calgary Airport to Abu Dhabi.
“Alberta and the United Arab Emirates share a strong and growing partnership built on trade and tourism, with approximately $303 million in trade in 2024,” Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said in a release.
“I have met with His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, here in Canada and the UAE, as well as UAE officials and the business community. I appreciate the commitment it has taken from all parties to build this relationship.”
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The new flight will make leisure and business trips to and from the Middle East easier for travellers to experience what Alberta has to offer, boosting the province’s tourism and economy.
“This new direct route between Calgary and Abu Dhabi strengthens Calgary’s role as an international hub, making it easier for more visitors to discover Alberta’s unique landscapes and warm hospitality. It reinforces Alberta’s position as one of Canada’s leading travel destinations, creates jobs, supports local businesses and grows the visitor economy,” said Andrew Boitchenko, the Minister of Tourism and Sport.
This route adds to the list of new flights announced from YYC this month, with Air Canada announcing two new Mexico flights next winter and WestJet adding a new South American destination to its lineup.