News DeskSharjah, UAE – Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier and one of the world’s fastest-growing airline brands, has officially launched a new passenger route connecting Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, with Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The inaugural flight took off on June 1, 2025, marking a new milestone in air connectivity between Africa and the Middle East.
The launch was celebrated in Sharjah with a vibrant event attended by key dignitaries and aviation officials. Among those present were Sheikh Khalid Isam Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation – Sharjah; Oumer Hussien, Ambassador of Ethiopia to the UAE; Solomon Begashaw, Area Manager of Ethiopian Airlines (UAE); Rahel Assefa, Vice President of Marketing at Ethiopian Airlines Group; and Khalid Waleed Al Mansoori, Manager of Overseas Promotions at Sharjah Tourism. The ceremony underscored the growing partnership between the UAE and Ethiopia.
The new service will operate four times a week, providing passengers with increased travel options between Sharjah and the airline’s extensive global network. The route is expected to enhance trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Africa and the Middle East.
Commenting on the launch, Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, said, “We are truly delighted to connect our passengers to an additional getaway in the UAE with our new flights to Sharjah. We have been connecting the UAE and Africa for nearly five decades now, and the new service will help boost investment, tourism, diplomatic and socio-economic bonds between the two regions.”
Prior to this launch, Ethiopian Airlines had been providing cargo services to Sharjah. With the introduction of passenger flights, the airline is now offering both business and leisure travelers a seamless and comfortable journey, backed by its modern facilities and renowned customer service.
Adding a festive touch to the event, a lucky draw was held for guests, with three winners receiving special prizes. The first prize winner received a Business Class ticket, the second an Economy Class ticket, and the third a collectible die-cast model of an Ethiopian Airlines aircraft.
Sharjah, the UAE’s third-largest emirate and a hub of culture, education, and industry, is now Ethiopian Airlines’ second passenger destination in the country. Recognized as the cultural capital of the UAE, Sharjah is also emerging as a popular destination for eco-tourism and adventure travel. The emirate’s strategic location and access to major international airports make it an ideal gateway for global business and tourism.
With this new route, Ethiopian Airlines continues to expand its global reach while reinforcing the strong ties between Africa and the UAE.
