CLT adding new nonstop flight to Abu Dhabi
Would be the longest flight from CLT
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Flight would be the only one from CLT to the Middle East, opening easier access to the region
The new route between Charlotte and Abu Dhabi will operate four times per week on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. (Shutterstock image)
by Tony Mecia and Cristina Bolling
Etihad Airways announced Friday that it is starting nonstop flights between Charlotte the city of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates — a move that would provide Charlotte travelers with easier access to Asia and the Middle East.
When service starts on May 4, 2026, it would be the longest flight from Charlotte and the only nonstop to the Middle East. The flight would be aboard a Boeing 787 Dreamliner and fly four times a week.
“Charlotte represents a strategic addition to our U.S. network, unlocking direct access to one of the country’s most dynamic and fast-growing regions,” Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad’s chief executive officer, said in a news release announcing the service. “We’re excited to be the first airline from our region to serve this market, and we look forward to connecting more travelers to Abu Dhabi and beyond.”
Etihad, with its hub in the capital city of Abu Dhabi, is the country’s national carrier and is known for its high standard of service and hospitality. Abu Dhabi is known for its modern skyline and cultural attractions such as its grand mosque.
Earlier this month, Disney announced plans to create a new theme park in Abu Dhabi called Disneyland Abu Dhabi. It will be located on Yas Island, a prominent entertainment hub in Abu Dhabi that already hosts attractions like Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World. It's expected to open in the early 2030s.
On Friday morning, the flights to Abu Dhabi were listed on the airline’s website as taking 13 hours, 45 minutes, and the return was listed at 15 hours. A round-trip for that first week of service in May 2026 started around $2,100.
Charlotte would be the airline’s sixth destination in the U.S., following New York, Chicago, Washington, Boston and Atlanta.
Charlotte has nonstops to several European countries, but none to the Middle East. Previous long flights from CLT have included nonstops to Honolulu and Brazil. Last year, the chairman of Turkish Airlines suggested Charlotte could be a candidate for a nonstop from Istanbul.
The press release announcing the flight describes Charlotte like this:
A thriving center for finance, technology, motorsport and culture, Charlotte is home to major U.S. corporations and attracts millions of visitors annually for both business and leisure. From the iconic NASCAR Hall of Fame to its scenic trails and southern charm, the city offers a diverse mix of experiences for every traveler.
➡️ Read the full press release here.
Abu Dhabi is the capital of United Arab Emirates on the shores of the Arabian gulf known for its striking architecture, cultural landmarks and wealth rooted in oil. (Shutterstock image)
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