Etihad to welcome over 2 million December passengers as winter travel demand soars

Etihad Airways expects over 2 million travellers in December as Abu Dhabi’s festive-season demand rises, urging guests to use careful planning and arrive early for peak travel periods. The airline notes heightened demand across its network, driven by the winter travel season, with passengers seeking to take advantage of holiday-time schedules and year-end events.

Key points:

December passenger volumes are projected to exceed 2 million, reflecting strong winter travel demand.
The festive period in Abu Dhabi is contributing to higher occupancy and demand across Etihad’s routes.
Passengers are encouraged to plan ahead, arrive early at the airport, and check travel requirements in advance to ensure a smooth journey.

Operational implications:

Increased flight frequencies and capacity on popular routes to accommodate anticipated demand.
Enhanced on-ground and in-flight services to support higher passenger volumes during peak holiday periods.
Continued emphasis on safety, compliance with travel requirements, and timely communications with travelers.

Quotes: Etihad officials highlighted the boost in winter travel demand and the airline’s readiness to serve holiday travellers with reliable schedules and services.

Context: These remarks come as December typically marks a surge in international and domestic travel, with Abu Dhabi positioning itself as a key hub for festive-season tourism and business travel.

Author’s summary: Etihad forecasts over two million passengers in December as winter travel demand climbs, signaling a robust festive season for Abu Dhabi’s travel and tourism ecosystem.

Arabian Business — 2025-12-04

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