Grzegorz Biedroń the CEO of the Małopolska Tourism Board, has welcomed the recent announcement by Etihad Airways to launch direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Kraków starting in the summer of 2026. He described the move as “a significant boost to tourism and cultural exchange between Poland and the United Arab Emirates.”

“This new route by Etihad Airways marks an important milestone in strengthening Kraków’s position as a leading European destination for visitors from the Gulf region, particularly the UAE, with whom we share a growing bond of friendship and cooperation,” Grzegorz Biedroń  said in a press statement today.

He added that the direct flights will greatly facilitate travel for UAE tourists wishing to explore the cultural, historical, and natural treasures of the Małopolska region – with Kraków at its heart, known as one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Europe.

The CEO also confirmed that the region is preparing to ramp up promotional efforts to welcome Emirati and Gulf visitors with tailor-made programs and a wide range of travel experiences – from family tourism to luxury and nature-based offerings – and emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships with travel agencies and tour operators in both countries.

“We see 2026 as the beginning of a new chapter in connecting East and West through tourism,” he concluded. “We warmly welcome our guests from the UAE to the heart of Poland – Kraków.”