UAE - Europe trade set for rapid growth with launch of new Etihad Airways route

Currently bilateral trade between Belgium and the UAE is worth approximately AED 9 billion per annum, and with Brussels' unique proximity to the neighboring countries of France, Germany and the Netherlands the economic benefits of the route will be felt across the whole continent.

Belgium and the UAE enjoy a substantial trading relationship, particularly in the export of machinery and electrical equipment, vehicles, precious metals, and diamonds.

"Export relations between the UAE and Belgium are already very strong, but this connection between Abu Dhabi and Brussels will provide massive incentive for new business relations to be formed," said H.E. Philippe Dartois, Belgian Ambassador to the UAE.

The Belgian community in the UAE is growing by 20 per cent every year, and this is complemented with an increasing number of Emirati nationals visiting Brussels for their holidays due to the wide availability of homes and apartments specifically designed for families.

"Brussels is the capital of modern Europe and Etihad Airways will be able to carry international business people in style between the UAE and Belgium, significantly increasing trade and tourism," said Raymond Korban, Southern Gulf general manager, Etihad Airways.

The opening of the new route is part of a sustained period of expansion for Etihad Airways as the airline increases its global presence, enabling business and leisure guests to travel in style with the highest levels of hospitality.