Abu Dhabi sees 242% growth in...

Free hotel stay initiative has "exceeded all expectations"

The number of international stopover visitors in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, has surged from 7,000 to 24,000 in just six months, according to the latest data.

Etihad Airways and the city’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi) are celebrating the exceptional growth, attributing it to their Abu Dhabi Stopover programme.

The programme invites travellers to break up a long flight with a free stopover in Abu Dhabi, turning one holiday into two and staying for free for up to two nights at your choice of hotel in the capital.

Abu Dhabi by kayak

The relaunch of the initiative has exceeded expectations, significantly boosting Abu Dhabi's tourism sector by 242%.

This strong performance, coupled with growing demand and increased bookings for the second half of 2024, puts the joint initiative on track to achieve its target of 75,000 international stopover visitors by the end of the year.

The programme has particularly resonated with travellers from key markets, including England, the US, Australia, EU countries and India.

Etihad Airways’ CEO Antonoaldo Neves said: "The growth of our Abu Dhabi Stopover programme has far exceeded our projections. We've 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."

DCT Abu Dhabi’s Director General for Tourism Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry added: "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.”

For more information, visit www.etihad.com

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