The initiative has seen international visitor numbers grow by 242% in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous six months. The programme is part of a wider push to increase tourism to Abu Dhabi, which its more well-known neighbor, Dubai, has long overshadowed.
Relaunch of the Programme Exceeds Expectations
The scheme’s relaunch has welcomed 24,000 international visitors in the first half of 2024, compared to 7,000 in the latter half of 2023.
The phenomenal growth in visitor numbers puts the initiative on track to reach its target of 75,000 stopover visitors in 2024.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways, 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.”
With travellers staying an average of two nights, the programme has been particularly popular with tourists from key international markets including England, USA, Australia, EU countries, and India.
An improved booking system has further boosted the scheme’s success with a new, user-friendly landing page increasing traffic to Etihad’s website by 43%.
More about The Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme
The collaboration between Etihad Airways and the Department of Culture and Tourism–Abu Dhabi, allows travellers booking flights with Etihad to easily add a stopover and enjoy a complimentary hotel stay for one or two nights.
The seamless process enables travellers to turn their transit into an exciting mini-break and reconfirms a strong commitment to boosting tourism in Abu Dhabi.
His Excellency Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi, said:
“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. The programme’s success reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a must-visit destination and encourages travellers to plan longer stays in the future.”
Top Things to Do in Abu Dhabi
While Dubai may be more popular with travellers, there are still many things to do and see in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
Here are some suggestions:
- Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: a spiritual haven the size of four football pitches, the architectural wonder combines Mughal, Ottoman and Persian influences.
- Stop by one of Abu Dhabi’s World-Class Theme Parks: adrenaline junkies can experience the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World or, if the heat becomes too much, visit Warner Bros World, the world’s largest indoor theme park.
- Experience the wonders displayed at the Louvre Abu Dhabi: hosting marvels such as The Subjugated Reader by René Magritte, Portrait of a Woman by Pablo Picasso and Young Emir Studying by Osman Hamdi Bey, visitors will be in awe of the masterpieces on display.
- Relax at Corniche Beach: the impeccably maintained public beach boasts a tranquil turquoise sea and golden sands. It is divided into three sections, including a quiet zone, and an area for families, meaning all guests can have an experience tailored to their needs.
- Explore the Mangrove National Park: a place where mottled crabs, flamingos, herons and dugongs (sea cows) congregate. Visitors can kayak or paddleboard through the waters to get a closer view of the inhabitants!
Have you been to Abu Dhabi? Share your experiences below!
