Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, and the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) have announced the success of their Abu Dhabi Stopover programme, which has significantly boosted the emirate’s tourism sector.

According to a press statement by Etihad Airways, the programme has attracted 24,000 international visitors in the first half of 2024 since its relaunch, marking a 242 pc increase from the 7,000 visitors recorded in the latter half of 2023. 

It says that this surge positions the initiative to reach its target of 75,000 stopover visitors by the end of 2024.

Antonoaldo Neves

“The growth of our Abu Dhabi Stopover programme has far exceeded our projections. We have seen international visitors more than triple in just six months. This success not only showcases Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a destination but also demonstrates the programme’s effectiveness in encouraging travellers to experience the emirate’s wonders,” says Antonoaldo Neves, CEO, Etihad Airways. 

Etihad says that programme has drawn significant interest from key markets, including the UK, the US, Australia, EU countries, and India, with visitors typically staying for an average of two nights. 

It says that the initiative allows travellers to explore Abu Dhabi while on transit, enjoying complimentary stays at premier hotels and easy access to the city’s attractions.

Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry

“The Abu Dhabi Stopover programme exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in driving tourism growth. This innovative initiative is clearly resonating with international travellers, offering them a compelling reason to explore our emirate,” says Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi.

The statement adds that the programme’s popularity has been further supported by a streamlined booking process and a new landing page on Etihad’s website, which has resulted in a 43 pc increase in web traffic from potential visitors.

Travellers can now effortlessly add a stopover to their flights, enjoying a range of experiences

The statement adds travellers can now effortlessly add a stopover to their flights, enjoying a range of experiences from world-class hotels to Abu Dhabi’s cultural and entertainment offerings.

The statement adds that Etihad Airways and DCT Abu Dhabi are planning further enhancements to the programme, aiming to deliver even more value and unique experiences to international visitors.

Etihad Airways says it connects 80 global destinations via Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, offering an ideal gateway for stopover travellers to explore the city before continuing to their final destinations.