By Business Insider Reporter
The decision by Etihad Airways to resume direct seasonal flights between Abu Dhabi and Zanzibar is expected to deliver a major boost to Zanzibar’s tourism and wider economy, strengthening the islands’ position as a high-end travel destination and expanding links with Europe and the Gulf.
Starting 14 June to 6 September 2026, the airline will operate four weekly flights – on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays – using an Airbus A320 offering both Business and Economy Class cabins.
According to Etihad’s CEO Antonoaldo Neves, Zanzibar represents “the perfect summer escape,” with its “world-famous beaches, spice markets, rich history and culture” offering immense appeal to both leisure and adventure travellers.
A timely boost
Etihad’s return is particularly significant for Zanzibar’s tourism sector, which has been diversifying its markets beyond Europe to include the Middle East and Asia. The direct link from Abu Dhabi, one of the Gulf’s busiest aviation hubs, will connect the islands to Etihad’s extensive global network, including key European and Asian cities.
Tourism experts say the route could increase visitor arrivals from high-spending tourists in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region – travellers often drawn to luxury resorts, exclusive beach villas, and cultural experiences. This aligns with Zanzibar’s Blue Economy and tourism diversification strategies, which aim to attract sustainable, premium tourism.
“Direct connections from major Gulf hubs are vital for Zanzibar,” said one tourism analyst based in Stone Town. “They not only bring in more tourists but also strengthen business links, investments, and trade opportunities tied to the hospitality and service sectors.”
Wider economic impact
Beyond tourism, the resumption of flights is expected to benefit the local economy through increased demand for fresh produce, crafts, and cultural experiences catering to visitors.
The hospitality sector – particularly hotels, restaurants, and tour operators – will likely experience a surge in bookings during the summer months.
Moreover, Zanzibar’s exporters of spices, seafood, and handicrafts could gain better logistical access to the Gulf and European markets via Abu Dhabi, reinforcing trade relations.
Strategic timing and connectivity
Etihad’s Zanzibar route will also feed into its expanded European network, providing seamless connections for tourists travelling from cities such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Milan. For Zanzibar, this improved connectivity enhances visibility and competitiveness against other Indian Ocean destinations like the Maldives and Seychelles.
The flight schedule – departing Abu Dhabi at 09:10 and arriving in Zanzibar at 13:50, with the return flight leaving Zanzibar at 17:50 and landing in Abu Dhabi at 00:30 (+1) – is tailored for optimal connections with inbound and outbound long-haul flights.
Towards greater regional integration
The move also underscores growing economic ties between Tanzania and the United Arab Emirates, particularly in trade, aviation, and tourism investment. Zanzibar’s government has been actively courting Gulf investors to fund new tourism infrastructure and renewable energy projects, positioning the islands as a strategic destination within the Indian Ocean’s travel and investment corridor. As Etihad Airways reconnects Zanzibar to the Gulf, the archipelago’s prospects for economic growth, job creation, and global visibility continue to brighten – marking yet another milestone in its transformation into a leading sustainable tourism hub in East Africa.
