Abu Dhabi’s Stopover Programme, a flagship initiative jointly led by Etihad Airways and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has achieved unprecedented success, setting new benchmarks for visitor numbers, bookings, and economic impact. In the first four months of 2025, the programme recorded 25,000 bookings-a remarkable 47% increase compared to the same period in 2024-while visitor arrivals surged to 44,000, marking a 76% rise over the previous year.

This rapid growth builds on the momentum of 2024, when Abu Dhabi welcomed 85,000 international stopover guests, up from just 12,000 in 2023. Etihad Airways now projects that more than 130,000 stopover guests will visit the Emirate in 2025, highlighting the programme’s accelerating popularity and its ability to attract incremental visitors at an impressive rate.

The Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme is designed to encourage transit passengers to extend their layovers and experience the city’s world-class attractions, luxurious hotels, and vibrant cultural scene. Available exclusively to Etihad Airways passengers, the programme allows travellers to seamlessly add a one- or two-night complimentary hotel stay at premier properties across the city during the online booking process.

The introduction of the Abu Dhabi Pass has further enhanced the experience, offering practical benefits and exclusive discounts at leading attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues. These features make it easier and more appealing for travellers to explore the Emirate’s diverse offerings, from iconic landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi to thrilling theme parks on Yas Island and serene desert landscapes.

The programme’s success is also driven by its broad international appeal, attracting travellers from key markets such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, India, Japan, and South Korea. Many visitors who initially stopover for a short stay are now returning for longer dedicated holidays, drawn by Abu Dhabi’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. The average length of stay for stopover visitors has increased, with travellers exploring more attractions and spending more time in the Emirate.

This trend not only enriches the visitor experience but also delivers a substantial economic boost to Abu Dhabi, supporting the objectives of the city’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract 39.3 million visitors, create 178,000 new jobs in the tourism sector, and contribute AED 90 billion to Abu Dhabi’s GDP by 2030.

Industry experts attribute the programme’s popularity to its seamless booking process, strategic partnerships, and the exceptional value it offers through complimentary hotel stays and curated experiences. The collaboration between Etihad Airways and DCT Abu Dhabi has been instrumental in positioning Abu Dhabi as a premier stopover destination, leveraging the airline’s global network and the city’s world-class infrastructure.

This partnership has also fostered innovation in the travel sector, setting new standards for customer experience and destination marketing.

Looking ahead, both organizations have outlined ambitious plans to further enhance the programme, including new partnerships, tailored packages, and expanded offerings. These initiatives are expected to drive continued growth and reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global tourism destination. The Stopover Programme is not only transforming the way travellers experience the Emirate but also contributing significantly to the city’s long-term economic and cultural development.

As Abu Dhabi continues to innovate and invest in its tourism sector, the Stopover Programme stands as a shining example of how collaboration between airlines and tourism authorities can create win-win outcomes for travellers, businesses, and the local community. With its record-breaking success, the programme is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of tourism in Abu Dhabi and beyond.

Travellers eyeing affordable summer getaways are in for a treat as Wizz Air Abu Dhabi announces a 15% discount on select flights to and from the UAE capital. The offer is valid for bookings made for travel between May 1 and June 30, 2025.

The ultra-low-cost carrier, a joint venture between Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company (ADQ) and Hungary-based Wizz Air, is rolling out the promotion to fuel summer travel demand. Bookings can be made exclusively via the airline’s official website and mobile app.

While Wizz Air hasn’t released a complete list of discounted routes, the offer includes several popular regional and European destinations, targeting budget-savvy flyers looking to explore more for less during the peak travel season.

The promotion aligns with Wizz Air Abu Dhabi’s ongoing expansion strategy, reinforcing its commitment to growing a cost-effective network out of the UAE capital. Since its launch in 2021, the airline has focused on short- and medium-haul destinations, aiming to make travel accessible for all.

Travellers are encouraged to act fast—discounted seats are limited and only available within the promotional booking window.

Qatar Airways Holidays, the leisure division of the award-winning Qatar Airways, has unveiled meticulously curated travel packages for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the largest-ever edition of the tournament spanning 16 host cities across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

The historic event, featuring 48 teams and over 104 matches, will unite football fans globally, with Qatar Airways Holidays providing end-to-end solutions that include international and domestic flights, luxury accommodations, intercity transfers, stadium transport, and guaranteed match tickets.

These packages, available in phases leading up to the tournament, prioritize convenience for fans, offering four- and five-star hotel stays in prime locations, seamless airport-to-stadium logistics, and flexible booking options through a dedicated digital platform.

As FIFA’s Official Global Airline Partner through 2030, Qatar Airways will leverage its vast network of over 150 destinations and its Privilege Club loyalty program, allowing members to earn Avios points on every package component—from flights to hotel stays—redeemable for future travel or upgrades.

Steven Reynolds, Senior Vice President of Qatar Airways Holidays and Discover Qatar, highlighted the company’s fan-first approach: “Our packages are designed to eliminate travel complexities, ensuring supporters can focus entirely on the tournament. From curated city-hopping itineraries to exclusive hospitality experiences, we’re delivering unmatched access to this global celebration of football.”

The phased release strategy aims to accommodate diverse fan needs, with early registrants gaining priority access to premium match tickets and hotel inventory. Qatar Airways’ partnership with FIFA, active since 2017, underscores its commitment to global sports development, complementing its portfolio of high-profile collaborations with entities like UEFA, Formula 1®, and the Brooklyn Nets.

The airline’s role extends beyond logistics, offering cultural immersion opportunities, such as curated stopovers in Doha, where travelers can explore Qatar’s heritage ahead of their World Cup journey.

Exclusive Member Benefits and Global Reach:

Privilege Club members enjoy double-dip rewards, earning Avios on flights and Qpoints on total package value, alongside exclusive Cash + Avios redemption rates for significant savings. Qatar Airways Holidays’ partnerships with over 300,000 hotels and 40+ cruise lines ensure tailored experiences, whether fans seek urban hubs near stadiums or tranquil retreats between matches.

The division’s 170+ destination network and multi-city flight options simplify cross-border travel across the three host nations, with dedicated customer support teams assisting in customizing itineraries.

Registration and Competitive Edge:

With demand expected to surge, early registration via qatarairways.com/fifa26 is encouraged. The first-come, first-served model prioritizes accessibility, while the platform’s real-time availability tracking and flexible payment plans cater to diverse budgets. Qatar Airways Holidays also guarantees price-match competitiveness, ensuring bundled flights and accommodations remain cost-effective compared to piecemeal bookings.

Legacy of Sports Excellence:

Building on its success as the official carrier for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, Qatar Airways continues to champion global sports through partnerships with rugby’s British and Irish Lions, tennis icon Novak Djokovic, and motorsport events like MotoGP. Its 2026 travel packages reinforce this ethos, blending operational precision with fan-centric innovation, setting a new standard for mega-event hospitality.

About Qatar Airways Holidays:

Operating in 84 countries, the division specializes in seamless travel experiences, from curated stopovers in Doha’s cultural landmarks to event-centric bundles for Formula 1® and UEFA tournaments. Its integration with Privilege Club elevates loyalty rewards, while its focus on accessibility—including multilingual support and 24/7 assistance—ensures a stress-free journey for fans worldwide.

As the authorized provider for FIFA’s marquee event, Qatar Airways Holidays reaffirms its position as a leader in global sports tourism, transforming how fans engage with the world’s most beloved tournaments.

Oman Air has elevated its Muscat-Moscow route to a year-round service, marking a strategic move to cater to rising travel demand and deepen economic collaboration between the two nations. Starting in May, the airline will deploy its advanced Boeing 737 MAX-8 aircraft for three weekly flights during the summer season, with departures on Tuesdays and Saturdays in May and June, expanding to include Thursdays from July to September.

The winter schedule, effective October through April, will offer up to six weekly flights, departing Muscat in the afternoon and arriving in Moscow by evening, while return flights leave late at night, ensuring optimal connectivity. The aircraft’s dual-class configuration includes 12 spacious Business Class seats and 150 ergonomic Economy seats, all equipped with modern amenities such as USB ports and personalized entertainment systems.

The initiative aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040 framework, as highlighted by His Excellency Eng. Said bin Hamoud Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, who emphasized the route’s role in advancing tourism, trade, and cross-cultural engagement.

Oman Air CEO Con Korfiatis reinforced Moscow’s status as a high-demand hub, enabling the airline to bridge Russia with key markets in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East via Muscat’s strategic location. Beyond passenger travel, the expanded service bolsters cargo operations, facilitating the transport of high-value goods and perishables, thereby boosting bilateral trade.

Travelers on the route will experience Oman Air’s signature hospitality, including regionally inspired cuisine and a curated selection of entertainment. This expansion is part of the airline’s broader network growth, which includes recent additions like Chittagong and the Maldives, alongside increased frequencies to Indian cities such as Lucknow and Thiruvananthapuram.

By transitioning the Moscow route to year-round operations, Oman Air not only addresses seasonal travel spikes but also supports Oman’s economic diversification goals, positioning itself as a pivotal player in global aviation connectivity.

 

Etihad Airways has unveiled its Summer Sale for 2025, giving travelers the chance to save up to 30% on flights to a broad selection of global destinations. This limited-time offer is available for bookings made through April 18, 2025, with travel dates spanning from May 1 to September 30, 2025—ideal for summer vacations.

Discounted fares start at just AED 995 (approximately USD 270) on select routes, making international travel more accessible. Travelers can find attractive deals to sought-after destinations like Tel Aviv and Amman, while business class tickets to cities such as Bangkok begin at around AED 9,995, providing premium comfort at a competitive price.

This year’s sale introduces new routes to Prague and Warsaw, launching in June 2025, alongside discounted fares to popular seasonal destinations like Santorini, Antalya, and Nice—each celebrated for their scenic beauty and lively summer atmosphere. Etihad is also expanding its reach with 15 new destinations, offering travelers even more choices.

Families are a central focus of this promotion. Etihad provides dedicated family check-in counters, priority boarding, and a ‘Little VIP’ program featuring themed activity packs and child-friendly amenities, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey for families. The airline’s inflight entertainment system includes a wide range of family-friendly content to keep all passengers entertained.

Additionally, Etihad’s complimentary stopover program in Abu Dhabi offers up to two free nights at select hotels, inviting travelers to experience the city’s cultural and leisure attractions. With increased flight frequencies to major cities and leisure hotspots, Etihad’s Summer Sale 2025 delivers value, convenience, and enhanced service for both vacationers and business travelers.

Key destinations featured in Etihad’s Summer Sale 2025:

• Prague, Czechia (new route)

• Warsaw, Poland (new route)

• Antalya, Turkey (seasonal)

• Santorini, Greece (seasonal)

• Nice, France (seasonal)

• Paris, France

• Milan, Italy

• Rome, Italy

• Manchester, UK

• Frankfurt, Germany

• Munich, Germany

• Zurich, Switzerland

• Barcelona, Spain

• Madrid, Spain

• Malaga, Spain (seasonal)

• Atlanta, USA

• Nairobi, Kenya

• Bali, Indonesia (daily summer flights)

• Sydney, Australia (increased frequency)

In a move to boost travel enthusiasm and offer more affordable options to its customers, Wizz Air UAE has launched a significant promotion, providing discounts of up to 20% on flights to a variety of popular destinations. This enticing offer began on April 1, 2025, and applies to select routes, allowing travelers to explore exciting locations at reduced fares. The discounted travel period spans from April 28 to June 15, giving passengers ample time to plan their trips during the spring season.

The promotion is available for bookings made through Wizz Air's user-friendly website or mobile app, ensuring a seamless booking experience for all travelers. Members of the WIZZ Discount Club enjoyed exclusive early access to this offer starting March 31, while the general public could begin booking from April 1. This strategic move not only rewards loyal customers but also attracts new travelers looking for budget-friendly options.

Wizz Air UAE's network expansion is also noteworthy, with the introduction of new routes from Abu Dhabi to Varna, Bulgaria, and Bucharest Băneasa Airport in Romania. The Varna route operates three times a week, while Bucharest Băneasa sees four weekly flights, enhancing connectivity to these culturally rich destinations.

Varna, often referred to as the Pearl of the Black Sea, is renowned for its stunning beaches and historical landmarks, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking a mix of relaxation and cultural exploration. Bucharest Băneasa Airport, on the other hand, offers convenient access to Romania's vibrant capital, known for its architectural beauty and lively atmosphere.

The airline's extensive network spans across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, catering to a diverse range of travelers. Popular routes include connections to major cities such as London, Milan, Abu Dhabi, and more, making Wizz Air a preferred choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking affordable yet efficient travel options. The promotion covers both one-way and round-trip flights, providing flexibility for passengers to plan their trips according to their needs.

Travelers are advised to book their flights early due to limited seat availability under this promotion. Wizz Air UAE continues to reinforce its commitment to providing affordable travel options while expanding its reach through strategic route additions and attractive promotions, further solidifying its position as a leading low-cost carrier in the region. This approach not only benefits travelers but also contributes to the growth of tourism in the destinations served by the airline.