Etihad Airways IPO Soon? CEO Says Airline Is "Ready Anytime" as Profits Up; 1,500 New Jobs Announced in Etihad

Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves has confirmed that the airline is well-positioned for a potential initial public offering (IPO), but the decision to move forward remains in the hands of its shareholders, as per Gulf news report.

"Etihad is ready to IPO at any time," said Neves, emphasizing that while the airline is financially and operationally prepared, there is currently no fixed date or formal decision regarding the public listing. "This is a shareholder decision," he clarified, indicating that the next steps depend on internal deliberations.

Etihad IPO Updates: Financial Transformation Bolsters IPO Readiness

Etihad's readiness for a public listing comes after years of financial restructuring and strategic transformation. Under Neves' leadership, the Abu Dhabi-based airline has strengthened its balance sheet, become profitable, and started paying dividends-a notable shift from its earlier years of financial turbulence.

Although rumours of a potential Etihad IPO have circulated for several years, the latest statement from the CEO indicates the airline is now fully equipped to go public, should shareholders choose to initiate the process.

Etihad IPO Would Align with Abu Dhabi's Broader Capital Market Strategy

A potential IPO by Etihad would be in line with Abu Dhabi's economic strategy, which includes encouraging state-owned enterprises to list publicly as a means to deepen and diversify the UAE's capital markets. The government has already seen success in public listings of ADNOC subsidiaries and other entities.

Etihad's anticipated half-year financial results, expected to be announced later today, are projected to set new performance records. These strong numbers further strengthen the case for a public listing and are likely to reignite IPO discussions within financial and investor circles.

Hiring in Etihad: Expanding Workforce & Focus on Emirati Talent

Alongside its financial transformation, Etihad is also expanding its human capital base. The airline plans to hire approximately 1,500 new employees in 2025, with a significant focus on UAE nationals.

Neves noted the airline's structured programs aimed at attracting and developing Emirati talent in key areas such as aviation management, engineering, and pilot training. "This is not a number game for us. It's a quality game," he said, underlining Etihad's commitment to meaningful talent development.

The CEO personally participates in onboarding sessions every Monday, welcoming new recruits from more than 100 nationalities, underscoring the airline's commitment to both global diversity and local inclusion. "We offer Emiratis a unique opportunity to work in a global environment while staying close to home," he added.