Sharjah: The inauguration of the new Ethiopian Airlines’ passenger flight to Sharjah is expected to bolster ties with the UAE and enhance regional connectivity, as remarked by Ethiopian Airlines Chief Operating Officer Retta Melaku.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Ethiopian Airlines has inaugurated a new passenger flight to Sharjah, a key city in the United Arab Emirates. The event marked a significant expansion of the airline’s network in the Middle East. Retta Melaku, speaking at the inaugural event, highlighted Ethiopian Airlines’ longstanding relationship with the region, which began with its first landing in Aden, Yemen, in 1946.
Melaku noted that Ethiopian Airlines has continuously expanded its network, launching services to Beirut in 1965 and Abu Dhabi in 1976. Despite service interruptions over the years, the airline’s commitment to the region has remained steadfast. Ethiopian Airlines now operates over 120 weekly passenger and cargo flights to approximately 13 destinations in the Middle East and Gulf regions.
Dubai and Sharjah, in particular, account for more than 30 weekly flights. The services are delivered using a modern fleet and are supported by world-class customer service. The new passenger flight to Sharjah underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ dedication to strengthening ties with the UAE and the region, offering seamless global connectivity and complementing existing cargo services.
Melaku emphasized that the new route will play a crucial role in facilitating trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Africa and the Middle East. He also revealed plans to resume flights to Abu Dhabi in July 2025, after more than a decade of suspension due to unforeseen circumstances. The airline is excited to reconnect with Abu Dhabi, aiming to expand its presence across the UAE and the broader region.
Deputy Head of Mission of the UAE Embassy in Ethiopia, Ahmed Farid Al-Badawi, expressed that the new route is more than just a flight; it is a bridge connecting cities, people, cultures, and shared ambitions of the two nations. He highlighted the strong and expanding relationship between Ethiopia and the UAE, with the UAE being a key trading partner and source of investment in various sectors.
The new route is expected to deepen economic ties, open new business opportunities, support the movement of people and goods, and encourage broader engagement between the two countries, reflecting a growing spirit of partnership.