Etihad Airways launches Calgary–Abu Dhabi nonstop!

Big news for Western Canadian travellers. Etihad Airways has announced a brand new nonstop route between Calgary and Abu Dhabi, marking the only direct connection between Western Canada and the United Arab Emirates.

Service begins November 3, 2026, operating four times weekly year round.

For travellers based in Alberta and across the Prairies, this is a genuinely significant development. Not only does it create a direct link between two global energy capitals, it also opens up seamless access to Etihad’s extensive network across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and beyond.

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A major win for Western Canada

Until now, Western Canadians heading to the UAE or connecting onward through the Gulf have typically routed through Toronto, Europe, or the United States. This new service from YYC changes that entirely.

With nearly 20 million passengers annually, YYC is one of Canada’s busiest and most important hubs. Adding a long haul Middle East connection strengthens Calgary’s position as a gateway to both the Canadian Rockies and global markets.

From a trade and economic perspective, the route also reflects deepening ties between Alberta and the UAE, particularly in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and artificial intelligence. In 2024 alone, trade between Alberta and the UAE reached approximately 303 million dollars, with clear room for growth.

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The onboard experience

The route will be operated by Etihad’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, featuring the airline’s latest widebody Business and Economy cabins. The 787 is well suited for ultra long haul flying, offering improved cabin humidity, larger windows, and a quieter experience overall.

For premium travellers, Etihad’s Business Studio product continues to be one of the stronger offerings across the Atlantic and Middle East markets. In Economy, the airline is known for thoughtful service touches and a competitive soft product, especially on long sectors.

Given the stage length between Calgary and Abu Dhabi, comfort matters. The 787-9 is a smart choice for this market.

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Schedule details

Flights begin November 3, 2026 and will operate Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.

Abu Dhabi to Calgary
Departure 08:45
Arrival 12:20
Flight EY29
Aircraft 787-9

Calgary to Abu Dhabi
Departure 18:05
Arrival 19:00 the following day
Flight EY30
Aircraft 787-9

This schedule allows convenient onward connections through Abu Dhabi to Etihad’s network of more than 100 destinations across 40 plus countries.

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Why this route matters

This is the type of route that creates real opportunity.

Leisure travellers gain direct access to Abu Dhabi’s cultural attractions, desert landscapes, and growing luxury hospitality scene. It is also an ideal gateway to destinations such as India, Southeast Asia, the Maldives, East Africa, and the broader Gulf region.

On the inbound side, this service makes it easier than ever for travellers from the UAE and across Etihad’s global network to experience Calgary’s vibrant city life and the iconic landscapes of Alberta and the Canadian Rockies.

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The bottom line

This is more than just a new route announcement. It is a strategic addition that positions Calgary as a true intercontinental gateway and gives Western Canadians a long awaited nonstop link to the Middle East.

Flights are now on sale. As always, I recommend keeping an eye on launch fares and introductory promotions, particularly in the first few months of operation.

For those based in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, this is one to watch closely. Nonstop long haul options from Western Canada do not come around every day, and this one has real staying power.