Published on
October 7, 2025
Etihad Airways has launched new direct services from Abu Dhabi to Medan and Phnom Penh, making it the to connect these two dynamic Southeast Asian destinations non-stop.
Travel Route Overview
| Route | Aircraft Type |
|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi – Medan (North Sumatra, Indonesia) | Airbus A321LR |
| Abu Dhabi – Phnom Penh (Cambodia) | Airbus A321LR |
Sumatra: A Nature-Lover’s Paradise Within Reach
With direct access from Abu Dhabi, travellers from the GCC can now easily reach North Sumatra, a region celebrated for its pristine landscapes, volcanic highlands, and deep cultural roots. Medan, the province’s capital, serves as the perfect starting point for exploring Lake Toba, one of the world’s largest volcanic lakes and a UNESCO Global Geopark.
Beyond its stunning vistas, Sumatra offers jungle treks, wildlife encounters, and serene island stays. The new flight eliminates long stopovers, making it ideal for families, adventure seekers, and eco-tourists who want to experience Indonesia beyond Bali.
Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s Gateway to History and Modern Charm
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital, blends rich history with contemporary allure. Travellers can explore royal palaces, French colonial architecture, lively markets, and riverside cafés—all within a few hours’ flight from Abu Dhabi.
The new route not only supports leisure travel but also fosters business, cultural, and religious tourism. It’s a chance for GCC travellers to experience Cambodia’s hospitality firsthand—before venturing onward to iconic destinations like Angkor Wat in Siem Reap.
Phnom Penh: A Gateway to Cambodia’s Cultural Heart
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, offers a fascinating mix of history and modern vibrancy. From the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda to the bustling Central Market, visitors can experience authentic Southeast Asian life. The city also serves as a launchpad to Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s iconic heritage site.
Discovering Sumatra: Nature and Heritage Up Close
For GCC travellers seeking pristine nature, North Sumatra is a dream. Medan, the region’s capital, opens the door to Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake and a UNESCO Global Geopark. The surrounding highlands are home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and the indigenous Batak culture—rich in music, architecture, and cuisine.
Etihad’s new route eliminates long layovers in Southeast Asia’s major hubs, making travel smoother for adventure seekers, honeymooners, and eco-tourists. According to Indonesia’s tourism authorities, direct connections like these are crucial to diversifying visitor demographics and boosting sustainable travel.
The Etihad Experience: Redefining Comfort in the Sky
Etihad’s introduction of the Airbus A321LR on these routes combines luxury with efficiency. The aircraft features three travel classes, including the airline’s first narrow-body First Suites, offering full-flat beds and private sliding doors. For travellers, this means a smooth, comfortable experience from takeoff to touchdown—an essential factor for those flying beyond the usual Southeast Asian hubs.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for Regional Travel
Etihad’s Southeast Asia expansion does more than add new destinations. For travellers in Southeast Asia, they offer a new bridge to the Middle East’s culture, trade, and connectivity. As the travel season picks up, adventurers, families, and business travellers alike can now board a flight from Abu Dhabi and arrive in Medan’s lush tropics or Phnom Penh’s cultural bustle within hours—no long layovers, no complex routes.
The Journey Ahead: Expanding Horizons for Travel
Etihad Airways’ new services to Medan and Phnom Penh are more than new flight routes—they represent new pathways for exploration. From the tranquil highlands of Sumatra to the historic riversides of Phnom Penh, travellers can now embrace journeys that blend adventure, discovery, and cultural immersion.
As global travel continues to evolve, this expansion embodies Etihad’s commitment to making every trip smoother, more direct, and more enriching. For GCC residents, it’s an invitation to explore new corners of Asia—no detours, no delays, just pure discovery.
Image Credit:- Etihad Airways
