Forward bookings for the daily Airbus A320 service indicate the route is already becoming one of the most popular in the airline’s global network.

“This is a very exciting day for Etihad Airways and we are thrilled to add another new destination, particularly one that is so important to the leisure traveler,” Etihad Airways’ CEO James Hogan, said.

“We look forward to developing strong ties between the UAE and the Maldives and take our responsibility to bring more people to this part of the world very seriously.

“It is such a highly desirable destination for our customers, not only from Abu Dhabi but also from Europe,” Hogan said. Etihad Airways’ schedule offers an attractive afternoon arrival and evening departure and European travelers can take advantage of overnight flights in both directions, offering them a full extra day in the Maldives.

Simon Hawkins, MD, Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation, said: “On behalf of our tourism industry, the business community and the whole domestic population we are delighted to welcome Etihad Airways to the Maldives. As the world’s premium island beach destination, we are highly dependent on the connectivity from the international airlines.”