Tehran unveiled as next destination for Etihad

The new route is set to offer a valuable service for the 400,000-strong Iranian community living in the UAE, and further strengthen commercial ties between Abu Dhabi and Tehran.

"There is a strong tradition of the Iranian people living and working in the UAE, and we are looking forward to serving these many families and businesses,"

said James Hogan, Etihad's new CEO.

"Etihad's three-times-a-week service will enable business and leisure travellers to fly conveniently between these two historic Middle Eastern capitals, whilst enjoying Etihad's high standards of comfort and luxury."

Research conducted by Etihad has shown that many Iranian travellers will combine trips to see UAE-based family members with visits to some of the UAE's world-class shopping malls.

Furthermore, many Iranian expatriates who have previously been living in Europe or the United States, are looking to invest in property in the UAE because of the proximity with Iran and booming business opportunities.

The Iranian population living in the UAE is also growing at a rapid pace with 6,500 Iranian companies operating in the country and 10,000 Iranian students at schools and colleges.

"One of Etihad's core themes is to bring the world closer together and this new frequent service will link the people of these two proud nations, and whether they are travelling on business or for pleasure," said Geert W. Boven, Vice President Commercial.

Etihad will operate one its brand new purpose-built Boeing 777-300ER aircraft which is configured to carry a total capacity of 378 Guests, 350 in the Coral zone and 28 in the Pearl zone.

The new Boeing 777-300ER affords Guests the highest levels of style and hospitality with the award-winning business bed in Pearl zone and the widest Coral zone seats in the industry.

Outbound flight EY731 will depart from Abu Dhabi International Airport every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 01:55 arriving in Tehran at 03:25. The return flight, EY 732, will depart at 04:55, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 07:25. Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport is located on the outskirts of the city, and is well serviced by public transport.