ABU DHABI: Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced the launch of a new direct route to Sochi, a picturesque city on Russia’s Black Sea coast. The airline will commence flights from Zayed International Airport (AUH) to Sochi International Airport (AER) on 29 May 2025.
The new service offers travellers seamless access to one of Russia’s top tourist destinations, renowned for its summer beaches and winter ski resorts. Known as the ‘Russian Riviera,’ Sochi’s combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it a sought-after holiday spot throughout the year.
Flight schedule and experience
Etihad will operate three flights per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, utilising a modern Airbus A320 aircraft. The plane is configured with eight Business Class seats and 150 Economy Class seats, ensuring a comfortable journey with Etihad’s renowned onboard hospitality.
| Flight No | Departure airport | Departure Time | Arrival airport | Arrival Time | Frequency |
| EY858 | Abu Dhabi (AUH) | 09:00 | Sochi (AER) | 12:20 | Tue, Thu, Sun |
| EY859 | Sochi (AER) | 14:10 | Abu Dhabi (AUH) | 19:00 | Tue, Thu, Sun |
The new route is expected to attract both leisure and business travellers, offering a convenient link between the UAE and Russia’s Krasnodar Krai region. Sochi, which gained global recognition as the host city of the 2014 Winter Olympics, is famous for its ski resorts in the Caucasus Mountains as well as its subtropical climate, making it an appealing year-round destination.
Expanding global connectivity
Sochi is one of 14 new destinations being added to Etihad’s growing global network in 2025. Other upcoming routes include major international cities such as Atlanta, Hanoi, Hong Kong, and Taipei. In Europe, Etihad will begin flights to Prague and Warsaw, while expanding its footprint in North Africa with services to Algiers, Tunis, and Al Alamein.
In Southeast Asia, the airline will introduce flights to popular holiday destinations, including Chiang Mai and Krabi in Thailand, Medan in Indonesia, and Phnom Penh in Cambodia. These additions strengthen Etihad’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and offering diverse travel options for its passengers.
Boosting Abu Dhabi tourism
The introduction of the Sochi route is expected to benefit Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector by attracting visitors looking to explore the UAE capital. Travellers can take advantage of Etihad’s Abu Dhabi Stopover programme, which provides up to two complimentary nights in premium hotels, encouraging tourists to extend their stay and experience the city’s attractions.
Book now
Tickets for the new Sochi route are available for purchase, with flights subject to regulatory approvals. Travellers can book through Etihad’s official website or travel agencies.