May 15, Tashkent, Uzbekistan — The national airline, Uzbekistan Airways, announces a significant expansion of its international flight geography and the signing of a strategic code-share agreement with Etihad Airways. This partnership opens a brand-new destination for Uzbekistan Airways passengers — Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Ticket sales for flights on the Tashkent – Abu Dhabi – Tashkent route under the national carrier’s HY code will launch on May 25, 2026, with the first joint flights commencing on August 9, 2026.

Through this agreement, which officially takes effect on May 15, 2026, Uzbekistan Airways strengthens its position in the Middle Eastern market. Passengers can now plan their travels to Abu Dhabi by purchasing a single ticket directly from the national carrier. In turn, Etihad Airways guests gain convenient access to eight domestic destinations within Uzbekistan via Tashkent: Samarkand, Bukhara, Urgench, Nukus, Termez, Fergana, Namangan, and Andijan.

The collaboration also includes the integration of the UzAirPlus and Etihad Guest loyalty programs. This will allow frequent flyers of both airlines to expand their opportunities for earning and redeeming points, making travel even more rewarding. The launch of flights to Abu Dhabi will serve as a vital addition to Uzbekistan Airways' existing daily flights to Dubai, offering passengers even more flexibility and comfort when planning trips to the UAE.

Uzbekistan continues to demonstrate rapid growth as one of the most attractive tourist destinations on the Silk Road. This new partnership not only opens the world to the citizens of our country but also makes the rich cultural heritage of Samarkand, Khiva, and Bukhara more accessible to travelers from across the globe.

— “Partnering with Etihad Airways marks another strategic milestone in the continued expansion of Uzbekistan Airways’ international network. Through this codeshare agreement, passengers of the national carrier will gain access to a new destination within our route portfolio — Abu Dhabi. The new service will complement our existing daily operations between Tashkent and Dubai, further strengthening air connectivity between Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates.

This partnership brings together the shared commitment of two leading airlines to the highest standards of safety, service excellence, operational reliability, and traditional hospitality. We are confident that this agreement will serve as a strong air bridge between our nations and will contribute significantly to the further development of tourism, cultural exchange, and business relations,” noted Shukhrat Yadgarov, Deputy Chairman of the Board for Commerce and Tourism at Uzbekistan Airways, JSC.

Arik De, Etihad Airways Chief Revenue & Commercial Officer, said: “Uzbekistan is one of the most exciting markets in our network right now, and this agreement gives our guests something they’ve been asking for: Easy access to eight Uzbek cities on a single ticket while offering direct service to our beautiful home in Abu Dhabi. We’ve found a strong partner in Uzbekistan Airways, an airline expanding its fleet and reach, and we’re looking forward to growing the relationship from here.”

Starting May 25, 2026, tickets for the new flights will be available for booking on the official website uzairways.com, via the mobile app, at all Uzbekistan Airways Sales branches, and through the airline's agents.

About Uzbekistan Airways

Founded in 1992, the national airline Uzbekistan Airways is today the largest carrier in Central Asia. Based in Tashkent, the airline operates flights to more than 100 destinations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America. Operating a modern fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, including the innovative Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Uzbekistan Airways ensures the highest standards of safety and legendary Uzbek hospitality at every stage of the journey.

About Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, was founded in 2003 and is one of the world's leading airlines. From its hub in Abu Dhabi, Etihad flies to hundreds of destinations worldwide. In recent years, the company has received numerous awards for its service quality, innovative products, and loyalty program. Detailed information is available at etihad.com.