Fly from Abu Dhabi to Crete with Etihad Airways
Book flights from Abu Dhabi to Crete and journey from the modern UAE capital to the origins of European society on Greece’s largest island.
Delve into the varied cultural and cuisine highlights, inspired by Crete’s location at a continental crossroads between Europe, Africa and Asia. Relax as turquoise waters lap at tranquil beaches along the vast coastline.
Fly from Abu Dhabi to Crete and uncover past and present natural and manmade wonders.
Flying from Abu Dhabi to Crete: FAQs
What is Crete famous for?
Crete is famous as the largest Greek island, both in the size and population. It’s where the Minoans established the first European civilization, as well as being home to the legend of the Minotaur. Beautiful beaches, weather and cuisine are what it’s renowned for today.
Crete is also famous for:
• Palace of Knossos
• Heraklion Archaeological Museum
• Gortyna
• Elafonissi Beach
• Samaria Gorge
What is the time difference between Abu Dhabi and Crete?
As Crete is part of Greece, it follows the same Eastern European Standard Time (EET). Crete is two hours behind Abu Dhabi from the last Sunday in October to the final Sunday in March. The rest of the year it uses Eastern European Summer Time (EEST) when the island is three hours behind Abu Dhabi.
Top tips for Abu Dhabi to Crete
Palaces of the past
Those flying from Abu Dhabi will be familiar with palaces, with the contemporary Qasr Al Watan presidential palace a shining jewel in present-day Abu Dhabi. In Crete, you can explore the glorious ruins of four major palaces across the island from the Minoan period.
Visit the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion, Phaistos in south-central Crete, Malia along the northern coastline, and Kato Zakros on the eastern shores.
Cretan cuisine
Similar to the Abu Dhabi diet, fish and lamb are the favoured staples of many Cretan dishes. Expect to see grilled mullet, swordfish and mackerel on many menus at taverns across the island.
Cretan cheese is another specialty – from mild mizithra to aged graviera and saganaki cheese, which is deep fried and soft. For an authentic taste of Crete, enjoy it as a topping on dakos, a local bread, paired with olive oil and sun-ripened tomatoes.