Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has reportedly pushed back its much-anticipated initial public offering (IPO) to the second quarter of 2025, after the Eid al-Fitr holiday on March 30, according to sources cited by Reuters.
The airline had initially planned to announce its IPO by the end of February 2025, but the decision was delayed for undisclosed reasons. While Etihad has not officially commented on the postponement, industry insiders suggest the offering will involve 2.7 billion primary shares, allowing investors to acquire up to a 20% stake in the airline. The move is expected to generate approximately $1 billion in capital.
First Gulf Airline IPO in Nearly Two Decades
Etihad Airways’ listing would mark the first public offering by a Gulf airline in nearly 20 years, with the last being Kuwait’s Jazeera Airways in 2008. The IPO is expected to attract both domestic and international investors, underscoring the carrier’s global appeal and growth trajectory.
At present, Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund ADQ is the sole owner of Etihad Airways. A public listing would not only allow the airline to expand its investor base but also position it for future growth amid a competitive aviation market.
While the precise reasons for the delay remain unclear, industry experts speculate that market conditions, regulatory approvals, or strategic considerations could have played a role. Investors and aviation stakeholders are now closely watching for further announcements from the airline regarding its revised timeline and offering structure.
