ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – Etihad Airways is set to introduce a seasonal nonstop route linking Abu Dhabi and Gothenburg starting December 17, 2026. The flight schedule includes four weekly departures until March 21, 2027, providing winter travelers with direct flights from Zayed International Airport to Göteborg Landvetter Airport. Tickets are currently available through the airline’s booking channels, marking a new seasonal connection between the UAE capital and Sweden’s second-largest city.
This new route offers western Sweden its inaugural direct air service with the United Arab Emirates. Furthermore, Etihad describes it as Gothenburg’s first nonstop route to the Middle East and Asia. Through Abu Dhabi, passengers will be able to connect to various destinations across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and East Asia, including Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Singapore, Hanoi, Bali, Shanghai, Taipei, Bengaluru, and Colombo. The route also benefits UAE travelers seeking direct access to western Sweden.
Flights will be operated using an Airbus A321LR, which accommodates up to 160 passengers. The aircraft’s cabin features two First Suites, 14 Business class seats, and 144 Economy seats. The First and Business class seats convert into fully flat beds with direct aisle access, while Economy passengers can enjoy 13.3-inch 4K touchscreen entertainment systems. High-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the aircraft, enabling a seamless travel experience. The aircraft’s long-range capabilities allow Etihad to offer three cabin classes on the Gothenburg route.
Enhanced international connectivity for Gothenburg with direct service
The new schedule facilitates passenger access to Abu Dhabi and Etihad’s extensive connecting network. Eligible travelers can also benefit from the Abu Dhabi Stopover program, which offers hotel stays of up to two nights in the UAE capital. For travelers from Gothenburg, the route minimizes the need for multiple connections in Europe before reaching Abu Dhabi. It also offers a direct seasonal option for those traveling between western Sweden and the UAE.
Swedavia, the operator of Göteborg Landvetter Airport, confirmed the four weekly flights and the December launch date. The airport authority described the route as Gothenburg’s first direct link with the UAE. Swedavia’s CEO, Mats Johannesson, highlighted the improved connections to the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia. Gothenburg, a significant hub for industry, research, and commerce on Sweden’s west coast, is served by its airport, which caters to the broader regional market across western Sweden.
Three-cabin configuration on the Airbus A321LR highlights new route
Etihad’s CEO, Antonoaldo Neves, emphasized the aircraft’s three-cabin setup when announcing the route, noting Gothenburg’s strong industrial and research credentials as key aspects of the destination. The airline counts Gothenburg as its 15th new destination launched in 2026. The seasonal service will operate during the winter period on four days each week, with the final scheduled flight on March 21, 2027, as per the timetable announced alongside the route.
Adding the Abu Dhabi-Gothenburg route expands Etihad’s nonstop network from its hub, providing Gothenburg with direct scheduled access to Abu Dhabi for the first time. Passengers will be able to travel point-to-point or make onward connections through the UAE capital. The airline maintains the Airbus A321LR as the aircraft of choice for this route, offering First, Business, and Economy cabins. The announced launch date, frequency, and seasonal operation remain consistent with the initial August 2026 announcement.