Etihad Airways Expands Italian Network Amid Seventy Six Per Cent Travel Surge to Abu Dhabi, Fueling Tourism Growth and Strategic Europe–Gulf Ties, What You Need To Know

Etihad Airways expands Italian network with power and purpose as a seventy six per cent travel surge from Italy to Abu Dhabi stuns the industry. Etihad Airways expands Italian network not just with added flights but with strategy, vision, and value. This seventy six per cent surge to Abu Dhabi reflects deep demand, rising tourism confidence, and stronger Europe–Gulf ties. Etihad Airways expands Italian network while fueling tourism growth across Milan, Rome, and beyond. With Abu Dhabi in focus, the airline seizes momentum. This is what you need to know—Etihad, Italy, and Abu Dhabi are rewriting travel’s future together.

This exponential growth is more than a spike. It’s a signal of transformation. And Etihad is responding swiftly. Starting this year, it will operate triple-daily flights from Milan and double-daily from Rome, offering over 10,000 weekly seats per direction—an 80% capacity jump from just one year ago.

Italy Emerges as Etihad’s Fastest-Growing European Market

The numbers tell the story. Abu Dhabi has captured the attention of Italian travellers like never before, with rising demand across both leisure and business segments. From pristine beaches and high-end shopping to dynamic cultural districts and futuristic museums, the UAE capital is striking a deep chord with Italian audiences.

As a result, Italy has officially become one of Etihad’s top-performing European markets. Abu Dhabi isn’t just a stopover anymore—it’s the destination.

Milan–Abu Dhabi Gets Triple Daily Flights with First-Class Luxury

In response to this surging demand, Etihad is launching a third daily frequency from Milan Malpensa Airport, operated by its new Airbus A321LR. The aircraft brings long-haul luxury to a medium-haul route, featuring lie-flat Business Class seats, dedicated First Class suites, upgraded dining experiences, and high-speed Wi-Fi.

This isn’t just about more flights—it’s about elevated experience. By offering premium cabin comfort on short- and medium-haul sectors, Etihad is betting big on Italy’s high-value travel market.

Rome Service Rises to Twice Daily with 1,000 Weekly Premium Seats

Rome is also receiving a major boost, with double-daily flights now connecting Fiumicino Airport and Abu Dhabi. Etihad will now offer more than 1,000 premium seats weekly between Italy and the UAE—double the number compared to November 2023.

This strategic move caters to the growing premium segment, where Italian business travellers, luxury tourists, and honeymooners are demanding more flexibility, frequency, and first-class comfort.

Stopover Bookings Soar 92% as Abu Dhabi Shines

The Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme is another breakout success. Offering free hotel stays for up to two nights, the program has captured the imagination of Italian travellers eager to explore the UAE capital on the way to Asia, Africa, or Australia.

Since 2024, stopover bookings from Italy have surged 92%, showing that the strategy is working. Italian guests are staying longer, spending more, and discovering Abu Dhabi’s cultural icons, desert adventures, and family-friendly attractions.

This initiative strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position not just as a hub—but as a must-see destination.

Strategic Partnerships Drive Deeper Italian Connectivity

Etihad isn’t building this network alone. Its codeshare partnership with ITA Airways, active since December 2021, is a cornerstone of its growth. Through seamless connections at Rome and Milan, travellers can connect from 14 domestic airports and 31 Trenitalia railway stations directly to Etihad’s global network.

From Florence to Naples, Venice to Bari, regional cities across Italy are now linked to Abu Dhabi’s world-class tourism offerings—thanks to a seamless air-rail-air travel ecosystem.

This isn’t just an airline expanding flights—it’s a national strategy to elevate Abu Dhabi as a regional gateway.

Abu Dhabi: A Rising Star Among Italian Travellers

What’s driving Italians to Abu Dhabi in such large numbers? A mix of factors. Currency exchange rates, streamlined visa processes, and word-of-mouth buzz have made the emirate a bucket-list destination.

Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi’s expanding event calendar, including global sports, concerts, and cultural festivals, has positioned it as a dynamic urban escape for European travellers looking for something new.

The emirate’s emphasis on safe, clean, and luxurious experiences is also resonating with families, solo adventurers, and senior travellers alike.

Etihad’s European Strategy Gains Momentum

This Italy expansion is just one chapter in Etihad’s broader European growth narrative. As a premium boutique carrier, the airline is targeting selective, high-value markets where it can dominate on service, reliability, and guest satisfaction.

Its move to deploy next-generation narrowbody aircraft with full premium options on high-traffic routes is a game-changing strategy. It allows frequency, flexibility, and luxury—all in one flight.

Moreover, Abu Dhabi’s airport infrastructure is built to scale, and with Etihad’s deepening alliances, the Europe–UAE–Asia corridor is being redefined.

Travel Agencies, Trade, and Culture Also Benefit

This surge in traffic isn’t just helping tourism. It’s supporting trade, culture, and bilateral relations between Italy and the UAE. Travel agencies across Italy are reporting increased demand for Abu Dhabi travel packages, corporate bookings, and group itineraries.

Events, exhibitions, and business travel between Rome, Milan, and Abu Dhabi are expanding. Italian designers, artists, and entrepreneurs are increasingly tapping into Abu Dhabi’s growing creative economy and dynamic retail scene.

This is aviation building bridges—and creating long-term economic and cultural impact.

What Comes Next?

As winter 2025 approaches, Etihad’s Italian expansion strategy is expected to continue gaining altitude. With more than 10,000 seats per week between Italy and Abu Dhabi and expanded premium offerings, the airline is well-positioned to lead a new era of Europe–Gulf travel.

Its multi-modal partnerships, lounge upgrades, and fleet innovation reflect a carrier that is not only growing—but growing smart.

Final Thought: Italy’s Love Affair with Abu Dhabi Has Lift-Off

The message is clear: Italy is embracing Abu Dhabi, and Etihad is delivering on every front. With Milan and Rome now deeply connected to the UAE capital, and with stopover experiences rising fast, Etihad is becoming the carrier of choice for Italians seeking sun, luxury, and global access.

This isn’t just an increase in flights—it’s a strategic aviation shift. And as 2025 unfolds, all signs point to continued growth, deeper ties, and an enduring travel partnership between two cultures with a shared passion for elegance, adventure, and discovery.