Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has unveiled a significant expansion into Southeast Asia by launching new routes to Medan, Indonesia, and Phnom Penh, Cambodia. These flights, inaugurated on October 2 and 3 respectively, reinforce Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a global aviation hub while connecting travelers to some of Southeast Asia’s most culturally rich and naturally beautiful destinations.
With the addition of these routes, Etihad’s network now spans 83 international destinations, reflecting its commitment to linking emerging tourism and trade corridors with the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. This expansion is not only a boost for global travelers but also strengthens the tourism economies of Indonesia and Cambodia.
Medan: A Gateway to the Wonders of North Sumatra
Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, is a vibrant city that blends history, culture, and modern development. The new direct route provides global visitors with seamless access to one of Indonesia’s most underexplored regions.
The crown jewel of North Sumatra is Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world and a UNESCO Global Geopark. Surrounded by highlands and traditional Batak villages, Lake Toba offers stunning views, cultural immersion, and eco-tourism experiences. Nearby Samosir Island enchants visitors with traditional Batak architecture, music, and rituals, giving travelers a chance to engage with centuries-old heritage.
Beyond its natural attractions, Medan itself is an economic hub with bustling markets, colonial-era architecture, and a rich culinary tradition. Food lovers can savor distinctive Sumatran dishes such as rendang, soto Medan, and spicy sambals. For adventurers, the dense rainforests of Gunung Leuser National Park provide unforgettable wildlife encounters, including the chance to see orangutans and other endangered species in their natural habitat.
With Etihad’s new flights, Medan is now firmly positioned on the global tourism map, making it easier than ever for travelers from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa to access Indonesia’s natural and cultural wonders.
Phnom Penh: The Dynamic Heart of Cambodia
Etihad’s entry into Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, marks another milestone in its Southeast Asia growth strategy. Initially offering four weekly flights, the service will increase to six per week by November 2025 to meet anticipated demand.
Phnom Penh offers a fascinating mix of tradition and modernity. The city is home to the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the bustling Central Market, where travelers can explore Khmer craftsmanship and local delicacies. Its lively riverside promenade, dotted with cafes, restaurants, and art spaces, reflects Cambodia’s youthful and creative energy.
Crucially, Phnom Penh serves as the primary gateway to Siem Reap and the iconic temples of Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most significant cultural landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These connections position Phnom Penh as both a cultural and economic crossroads, attracting leisure tourists as well as business travelers seeking opportunities in one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies.
Redefining Regional Air Travel
Both new routes will be serviced by Etihad’s Airbus A321LR, a state-of-the-art narrowbody aircraft designed for comfort and efficiency. The airline has introduced an innovative three-cabin layout, including the exclusive First Suites, complete with sliding doors and flat beds—a first for this aircraft type.
Business and Economy travelers also enjoy enhanced cabin features, upgraded inflight entertainment, and menus inspired by both global and regional cuisines. For passengers choosing the First Deluxe Service, Etihad offers added luxuries such as chauffeur-driven transfers, personalized concierge assistance, and premium airport services.
These innovations set a new benchmark for regional travel, ensuring that every passenger—whether flying for leisure or business—experiences a journey defined by comfort and efficiency.
Flight Schedules Connecting Abu Dhabi and Southeast Asia
- EY480: Abu Dhabi to Medan – Departs 20:45, arrives 06:45 (+1), Tue, Thu, Sat
- EY481: Medan to Abu Dhabi – Departs 08:55, arrives 12:50, Wed, Fri, Sun
- EY434: Abu Dhabi to Phnom Penh – Departs 21:10, arrives 07:20 (+1), Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun
- EY435: Phnom Penh to Abu Dhabi – Departs 08:40, arrives 13:00, Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat
These timings are designed for smooth onward connections from Abu Dhabi to Etihad’s wider global network, including cities across Europe, the Middle East, and North America.
Ambitious Growth Plans
The launch of Medan and Phnom Penh is part of Etihad’s broader growth strategy. The airline has revealed plans to open 30 new routes across four continents in the coming years. Southeast Asia remains a focus, with Krabi, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, and Hong Kong set to join the network soon.
Etihad is also expanding into leisure destinations such as Palma de Mallorca, Zanzibar, and Damascus, showcasing its vision to diversify offerings for both holidaymakers and business travelers. This rapid expansion underlines Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a global travel hub, connecting travelers seamlessly across multiple continents.
Loyalty Rewards with the Extraordinary Challenge
To celebrate its expansion, Etihad has introduced the Extraordinary Challenge for members of its Etihad Guest loyalty program. Running until May 25, 2026, this challenge rewards travelers who visit multiple new destinations with up to five million bonus miles. The initiative encourages travelers to explore new corners of the world while enhancing their loyalty experience.
Conclusion: A New Era for Regional Connectivity
With new flights to Medan, Indonesia (North Sumatra), and Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Etihad Airways is not just adding routes—it is building bridges between cultures, economies, and people.
These services provide travelers with easier access to UNESCO-listed wonders like Lake Toba and Angkor Wat, vibrant city experiences in Medan and Phnom Penh, and smoother connections through Abu Dhabi’s state-of-the-art hub. As Etihad continues to expand, it is shaping a future where global travel becomes more accessible, convenient, and culturally enriching.
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