Etihad Airways has commenced operations on a new route connecting Abu Dhabi with Kazan, Russia. The inaugural flight EY839 arrived at Kazan International Airport this afternoon, marking the start of service between the UAE capital and the city in Russia’s Tatarstan region.
The route will operate three times per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays using Airbus A320 aircraft. Flight time is five hours.
“We’re delighted to welcome guests from Kazan to discover Abu Dhabi, a city that beautifully blends Emirati heritage with contemporary innovation,” Natalia Goryunova, Country Manager Russia at Etihad Airways said, according to a statement by Emirates News Agency (WAM).
Etihad adds Kazan to network with new UAE-Russia flights
Passengers can connect through Abu Dhabi to destinations in Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, the GCC region, and Australia.
“Through our Abu Dhabi hub, passengers can enjoy seamless connections to Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, the GCC region, and Australia, opening up exceptional travel opportunities across Etihad’s global network. Whether exploring Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, pristine beaches, and thriving dining scene, or connecting onwards to destinations throughout our network, this flight opens up a world of possibilities for travellers in both directions,” she added.
Abu Dhabi features attractions including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi. Yas Island contains theme parks. The city experiences year-round sunshine.
Kazan is located on the Volga River. The city contains the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO-listed site featuring mosques and cathedrals. The city is home to football club FC Rubin Kazan, ice hockey team Ak Bars, and basketball team UNICS. Kazan hosted matches during the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
The route is part of Etihad’s 2025 network expansion covering destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. The service operates as a winter season route from 4 December 2025 until 19 April 2026, with plans to resume next winter.
| Flight | Origin | Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time | Frequency | Aircraft |
| EY 839 | Abu Dhabi | 08:20 | Kazan | 12:35 | Tue, Thu, Sun | A320 |
| EY 840 | Kazan | 13:30 | Abu Dhabi | 19:50 | Tue, Thu, Sun | A320 |
