Although the Fifa World Cup 2026 – which runs from June 11 to July 19 – is still a ways away, fans in the UAE can start planning when it comes to flights and route itineraries for the global sporting event.
From destinations served by direct flights operated by Etihad Airways and Emirates from Abu Dhabi and Dubai, to places that require connecting flights, here’s a city-by-city guide on how to get to every World Cup host location, plus the types of matches each venue will stage.
Note: Flight frequency is based on typical schedules and may vary seasonally.
Cities with multiple direct routes from the UAE
New York City (MetLife Stadium)
Flights on offer: 14 direct flights per week on UAE carriers
Etihad operates direct, non-stop flights from Zayed International Airport (AUH) in Abu Dhabi to John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK), daily.
Emirates offers direct, non-stop services from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to JFK.
The flight duration from the UAE is between 14 and 15 hours.
Matches hosted: Group-stage games, knockout fixtures and the final
Boston (Gillette Stadium)
Gillette Stadium has capacity for 65,000 football fans. Reuters
Flights on offer: 14 direct flights per week on UAE carriers
Etihad and Emirates operate direct, non-stop flights from AUH and DXB re
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