Etihad and Uzbekistan Airways Unlock Central Asia Travel

Klaus Schmidt · 2026-05-16

If you've been dreaming of exploring Central Asia but thought it was too complicated to get there, things just got a whole lot easier. Etihad Airways and Uzbekistan Airways have teamed up, and it's a game-changer for travelers. This new codeshare agreement means you can book a single ticket and reach eight different cities across Uzbekistan from Abu Dhabi. It's like having a key to a whole new part of the world. ### What the New Partnership Means for You Starting May 15, 2026, the agreement kicks in, but the first flights you can actually book for travel begin on August 9, 2026. Etihad is launching a daily non-stop service from Abu Dhabi to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. From there, you can hop on Uzbekistan Airways flights to eight other cities. This isn't just about adding a few routes. It's about making Central Asia accessible. For Etihad's global guests, it opens up a region rich in history and culture. And for Uzbekistan Airways passengers, it connects them to Etihad's worldwide network through Abu Dhabi. ### Destinations You Can Now Reach Here's a quick look at the cities you can visit with one ticket: - Tashkent (the main hub) - Samarkand - Bukhara - Khiva - Nukus - Termez - Andijan - Fergana Each of these places has its own unique vibe. Samarkand is famous for its stunning blue-tiled mosques. Bukhara feels like a living museum. Khiva is a walled city that transports you back in time. ### Why This Matters for US Travelers For folks in the United States, this is huge. You can now fly from major US cities to Abu Dhabi with Etihad, then seamlessly continue to Uzbekistan. No more separate bookings or worrying about connections. The Silk Road has always been a symbol of connection between East and West. This partnership revives that spirit. It's not just about flights; it's about making it easy for Americans to explore a part of the world that's often overlooked. ### What Travelers Should Know If you're planning a trip, here are a few things to keep in mind: - **Visa Requirements**: US citizens need a visa for Uzbekistan, but it's straightforward. You can get an e-visa online. - **Best Time to Visit**: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal. Summers can be scorching, with temperatures often above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. - **Currency**: The local currency is the Uzbek som, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. ### The Bottom Line This codeshare agreement is a smart move for both airlines. For Etihad, it fills a gap in their network. For Uzbekistan Airways, it gives them access to Etihad's global reach. But for travelers, it's a win-win. You get to explore a region that's been on the bucket list for many. And you can do it with the comfort and reliability of two major airlines. So, start planning your Central Asian adventure. The Silk Road is calling, and now you can answer.