Etihad Airways takes off from Hong Kong starting November 4, connecting travellers to over 100 coveted destinations around the world, spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and beyond
People often say that the golden age of travel is behind us. But here at Tatler, we beg to differ—because how is it not the golden age now, when we have the whole world at our fingertips?
One airline in particular continues to take luxury travel to new heights. In a world that moves fast, Etihad goes beyond just taking its passengers from point A to point B, inviting its passengers to slow down and indulge in the journey.
The proud flag carrier of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates has—rightly so—continued to earn global recognition from multiple World Travel Awards, including the prestigious title of World’s Leading Airline, to accolades for cabin comfort and exceptional customer service.

Above Etihad's luxurious business class
From its “Dine Anytime” service that puts you in control of your flying experience, to truly thoughtful amenities that redefine inflight comfort. Passengers flying in business or first class can slip into something comfortable and cosy with Etihad’s deluxe Giorgio Armani loungewear and slippers, before indulging in a bit of on-board pampering with an exclusive amenities kit—also designed by Armani. Containing luxurious wellness essentials by ESPA, choose from two custom-designed bags that feature an ethereal design inspired by rolling sand dunes in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa Desert—making it a chic souvenir to remember your journey by.
In First Class, forget everything you thought you knew about airplane travel. We're talking private suites with plush Poltrona Frau leather, an ottoman that magically transforms into a full-on bed and even your own personal closet. You’ll truly be living your best life at 30,000 feet.
At the end of 2024, the airline announced that it is spreading its wings—literally and figuratively—with the addition of ten new routes, including seven in Asia: Algiers, Atlanta, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Hanoi, Hong Kong, Medan, Phnom Penh, Taipei and Tunis. These routes were thoughtfully selected by the airline, after talking to its customers to understand which destinations topped their travel bucket lists.
With these new routes, not only will Etihad bring its world-class service and in-flight experiences to more travellers than ever before, it further establishes Abu Dhabi as the next go-to hub for Asian travellers going on to Europe, Africa, the Middle East and beyond.

But Abu Dhabi is more than just a layover, it’s a spectacular destination that has something for everyone—starting with the wildly impressive Zayed International Airport, which spans over 8 million sq ft. With the opening of a striking new terminal in 2023, the airport has swiftly joined the ranks of the world’s most iconic travel hubs, thanks to its state-of-the-art design by Kohn Pedersen Fox architects.
It claimed the title of Most Beautiful Airport at the 2024 Prix Versailles awards, thanks in part to its most showstopping feature: a spectacular, energy-efficient roof. Built in a shape that mimics the region’s ethereal desert landscapes, this innovative design is as functional as it is fabulous by reducing the need for extensive glazing and external shading, keeping the terminal cool and comfortable while flooding it with natural light.

Above The award-winning Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi
Then, there’s the city itself. Whether you’re staying for a few weeks or a few days, Abu Dhabi will surprise and delight with its diverse and captivating attractions. Art lovers will be inspired by TeamLab Phenomena, a new immersive art experience by Japan’s visionary collective. If you’re more partial to the classics, The Louvre Abu Dhabi is home to such masterpieces as La Belle Ferronière by Leonardo da Vinci, The Bohemian by Édouard Manet, and The Bezique Game by Gustave Caillebotte. Planning ahead, The Guggenheim and Zayed National Museum are slated to open next year, the cultural renaissance on the city’s Saadiyat Island.
For thrill-seekers, there’s Ferrari World, where the Formula Rossa rollercoaster—the world’s fastest roller coaster—delivers one heck of an adrenaline rush. Or, if you’re the type of traveller who prefers to simply unwind and relax, sink your toes into the sand at one of Abu Dhabi’s beautiful beaches down at the Corniche or Yas Island. The latter is just a ten-minute drive from Zayed International Airport, making it the perfect place to explore if you’ve got a few hours in the city.

Above Etihad makes it easier than ever to explore Abu Dhabi
However, we implore you to stay longer to truly experience what Abu Dhabi has to offer - especially when Etihad makes this ever-so-attractive and accessible. Did you know that if you book a flight with a stopover in Abu Dhabi, you can get a complimentary two-night stay at some of the city’s most coveted hotels?
This includes luxurious properties such as The Abu Dhabi Edition, Dusit Thani and Bab Al Qasr.
With exceptional service and amenities, a bustling hub brimming with opportunities for inspiration and discovery, and lush perks for a seamless experience—the golden age of travel is now, and Etihad is setting the bar sky high.
So what are you waiting for? Find out more and book at etihad.com.




