Abu Dhabi to Mallorca Direct Flights Coming Summer 2026: Impact on Real Estate.
It’s just been confirmed that a direct Etihad Airways route from Abu Dhabi to Mallorca will launch in summer 2026. This is the first time Mallorca will be directly connected to the UAE, marking a significant moment for the island in terms of both international connectivity and long-term market growth.
The new seasonal direct route will start June 12, 2026, and run through mid-September. The airline will operate three flights per week, making this the first-ever direct connection between the UAE and Mallorca, and currently the only direct air link between Asia and the island.
The flights will be serviced by the Airbus A321LR, offering a premium experience across all classes. Passengers can expect private First Class suites, lie-flat Business Class seating in a 1-1 configuration, and an upgraded Economy cabin with extra legroom, individual screens, and a quieter environment.
Flight EY115 will depart Abu Dhabi at 02:55, arriving in Palma at 08:15. The return, EY116, will leave Palma at 10:30, landing back in Abu Dhabi by 19:00 offering convenient timings for both business and leisure travellers.
This is a major milestone for Mallorca’s international connectivity, and a significant signal of the island’s rising profile among long-haul destinations for both tourism and property investment. For those of us in the real estate industry, this news is about much more than a travel route. It signals real change: new buyer segments, greater mobility, and increased demand, particularly in the luxury property space.
A Major Step for Mallorca’s Global Reach
This new route connects Mallorca directly to a major international hub in the Middle East, making the island far more accessible to buyers, investors, and high-net-worth travellers from the UAE, broader GCC region, Asia, and beyond.
Mallorca already attracts strong interest from across Europe, the UK, and a growing number of buyers from the US. However, long-haul buyers, especially from the Middle East, have often been discouraged by the lack of direct access. This new flight removes that barrier and opens the door to a valuable new demographic of potential property buyers.
What This Means for the Mallorca Real Estate Market
Improved air connectivity tends to have a direct impact on real estate markets, especially those with strong lifestyle appeal like Mallorca. Here’s how we expect this development to shape the island’s property landscape in the months and years ahead.
New Demand from International Buyers
This direct route from Abu Dhabi to Mallorca will likely lead to increased interest from international buyers, particularly those who previously viewed Mallorca as too far or inconvenient to access. With travel becoming easier, we expect more high-net-worth individuals visiting the island and actively exploring property opportunities during those trips.
Strengthening of the Holiday Home and Short-Term Rental Market
With more direct tourist traffic, short-term rental properties and holiday homes stand to benefit from higher occupancy rates and stronger rental yields. Owners of luxury villas and high-end apartments can expect more consistent demand from premium travellers, especially during the shoulder seasons.
Potential Property Value Uplift in Strategic Locations
Properties with easy access to Palma or located along strong transport corridors are likely to become even more attractive. As demand spreads, we may also see renewed interest in lesser-known areas that offer privacy, sea views, and lifestyle appeal, but previously felt too remote due to limited connectivity.
Increased Investor Confidence
A new direct route from a global airline is often viewed as a sign of confidence in a destination’s long-term viability. It can help boost investor sentiment, encourage long-term planning, and attract international capital into areas like mixed-use developments, hospitality projects, and branded residences.
Infrastructure and Amenity Growth Likely to Follow
Expanded air access tends to trigger improvements in local infrastructure and services. Roads, hospitality, transport, and public amenities often see investment growth, which in turn enhances day-to-day livability and supports long-term property value.
Final Thoughts
This new Abu Dhabi to Mallorca connection is more than a travel update. It represents a strategic shift, positioning Mallorca on the map for a broader, high-value global audience and contributing to the island’s continued evolution as one of Europe’s most desirable lifestyle destinations.
For current and future buyers, this is an opportunity to enter the market before increased demand begins to influence pricing and availability. For property owners, it’s a smart time to reassess how their assets are positioned in a more globally connected landscape.
Thinking About Buying or Selling in Mallorca?
Whether you’re local, international, or just starting to explore your options, we’re here to help. We offer expert advice, deep market insight, and access to the island’s most exclusive listings.
Get in touch with us to discuss your goals and explore what’s possible in this exciting new chapter for Mallorca.
