Georgian Economy Minister: Etihad Airways to begin flights to Georgia in 2026, boosting aviation, tourism
Mariam Kvrivishvili
Photo: Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia
Mariam Kvrivishvili, the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, on Friday said that Etihad Airways’ planned entry into the Georgian aviation market was expected to significantly enhance passenger flow, strengthen trade ties with the Gulf countries, and stimulate Georgia’s tourism and economy.
In her remarks over the matter, Kvrivishvili noted that the entry of such a prominent international carrier was a result of Georgia’s sound economic and diversification policies.
“The entry of Etihad Airways, one of the world's leading airlines, into the Georgian aviation market is another success for our country and a result of sound economic policies, including diversification, as well as recognition of the aviation industry. The arrival of such a strong international brand airline in Georgia will further enhance the country's visibility and contribute to the development of the tourism sector”, Kvrivishvili said.
The Minister further noted that Etihad Airways' decision would not only enhance Georgia’s visibility on the global map but also significantly increase tourist arrivals and passenger flow between Georgia and Gulf nations.
“We have close trade and economic ties with the United Arab Emirates, and Etihad Airways' entry will further strengthen cooperation and increase the flow of high-spending tourists. This will positively impact the growth of tourism and the revenues generated from it. The Gulf countries are amongst the most in-demand aviation destinations, so Etihad Airways' flights will provide an additional stimulus not only for the aviation sector but also for Georgia’s tourism sector and, consequently, the entire economy. Our team will do its utmost to ensure that our cooperation and the airline’s operations in Georgia are successful”, she noted.
Etihad Airways, one of the world’s leading airlines, will launch operations on the Abu Dhabi-Tbilisi-Abu Dhabi route starting March 1, 2026.
The airline is set to operate 14 flights per week, marking a new chapter in Georgia’s international connectivity and positioning in the Gulf market.
Georgia’s aviation sector has seen significant expansion in recent years. Currently, over 70 airlines operate in the country, connecting it to more than 110 destinations worldwide.
Airlines such as FlyDubai, Air Arabia, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi already operate around 49 flights weekly between Georgia and the UAE.
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