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Etihad Airways and the DCT Abu Dhabi celebrate success of ‘Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme’
Photo: (from left flanked by Etihad Cabin Crew) Tiago Phillimore, Etihad Director Destinations, Products & Holidays; Aysha Al Kaabi, Etihad VP of Commercial Enablement & Engagement; Abdulla Yousuf, DCT Director International Operations; Haitham Al Khamis, DCT Section Head of Aviation, Cruise & Global Partnerships; and Nahla Al Shorbaji DCT Project Manager Aviation. Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Etihad Airways celebrated the success of the Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme at Arabian Travel Market 2025, with visitor numbers continuing to accelerate at an impressive pace. The Stopover Programme has achieved 25,000 bookings in the first four months of 2025, representing a 47% growth in sales compared to the same period in 2024. More significantly, the number of visitors has surged to 44,000 between January and April 2025, marking a substantial 76% increase over the 25,000 visitors recorded during the same period last year. The success of the Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme extends beyond initial visits, with many travellers who first experienced the emirate during a short stopover returning for longer dedicated holidays. This growth builds on the strong performance throughout 2024, which welcomed 85,000 international stopover visitors compared to 12,000 in 2023. Etihad Airways anticipates hosting more than 130,000 stopover guests in 2025, continuing to bring incremental visitors to Abu Dhabi at an accelerated pace. The programme attracts visitors from across Etihad’s global network, with notable interest from the United States and Canada, where travellers are increasingly breaking their journey to experience Abu Dhabi’s cultural attractions. European visitors from the United Kingdom, Germany, and France are discovering the emirate’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. The programme also resonates with travellers from India, Japan, and South Korea, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s diverse appeal to international visitors. The programme's appeal has been further enhanced by the new Abu Dhabi Pass launched in March, which provides additional benefits for travellers seeking to maximise their time in the emirate. The digital Abu Dhabi Pass provides visitors with free airport transfers, a tourist SIM card with data connectivity, unlimited access to public buses, and 24-hour unlimited access to the hop-on-hop-off tourist bus network. Pass holders also enjoy exclusive discounts of up to 15% at leading attractions including Qasr Al Watan, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Yas Island's entertainment destinations such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: "Abu Dhabi's strategic investment in data-led marketing, diverse programming, and a culture-first approach is yielding significant tourism growth, evidenced by 1.4 million Q1 2025 overnight guests. With the success of our stopover programme, we aim to strengthen partnerships and broaden our global reach, ensuring our unique cultural identity remains central to our long-term tourism vision. “The multi-sensory teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi opened on 18 April and is the newest addition to Saadiyat Cultural District. This 17,000 sqm immersive art space features transformative exhibits at the intersection of art, science, and technology, adding to the emirate's growing portfolio of world-class experiences.” Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, said: "Our Stopover Programme continues to exceed expectations as more travellers choose to break their journey and discover Abu Dhabi. The 76% growth in visitors during the first four months of 2025 demonstrates the programme's accelerating momentum. By offering up to two complimentary hotel nights, we're giving visitors the perfect opportunity to experience our remarkable destination. The introduction of the Abu Dhabi Pass has further enhanced this experience, providing practical benefits and exclusive discounts that allow visitors to make the most of their time in the emirate." The average length of stay for stopover visitors has increased since 2024, with travellers exploring more attractions during their visit. This growth supports the objectives of Abu Dhabi'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. Looking ahead, DCT Abu Dhabi and Etihad Airways plan to further enhance the visitor experience through continued collaboration, with ambitious targets set for international visitor arrivals in the coming years.
‘Summer in Abu Dhabi’ with kids
A recent global study, commissioned by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), surveyed kids aged between 5–12 , revealing that 93% of Indian children want to participate in activities that help them make new friends. Among the top highlights of the research, was the insight that Indian kids are looking to explore different cultures beyond their own borders, making cultural curiosity the new thing among the younger generation. According to the study, an astounding figure of more than three in four Indian kids want to visit a museum on holiday. Today’s generation of Indian children are also more inclined towards visiting food markets, exploring diverse cultures, and other similar factors. The results reveal: Food plays a significant role in driving young Indian travellers with over 90% of kids wanting to visit food markets, an opportunity to learn more about different cultures. As many as 96% want to visit water parks and play water sports, with these activities making holidays more adventurous and amusing. The trend continues with as many as 80% keen to visit grand places and 80% having interest in seeing how people live, as well as things to do like experiencing climbing lessons (79%) on holidays. Nouf Mohamed Al-Bushlaibi, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing & Communications at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: "As both a parent and a marketer, I know firsthand how important it is to really listen to kids, to understand what lights them up, what sparks their imagination, and what makes a holiday unforgettable. We commissioned this research to hear what truly matters to children when they look at holidays, and what they told us was inspiring: they want connection, adventure, and the freedom to play out the stories they love. Abu Dhabi brings all of that to life as a place where kids can dream big, try new things, and feel right at home doing it with their loved ones." With the data revealing interesting insights on young Indian travellers, DCT Abu Dhabi has collaborated with kids to co-create an exciting seven-day itinerary – by, kids for kids. The Kid-Recommended itinerary will comprise theme parks, museums, zoo visits, beach days, and plenty of other amazing locations in Abu Dhabi.
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi launches 15% off summer travel promotion
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the ultra-low-fare national airline of the United Arab Emirates, is celebrating summer holidays with an exciting promotion of a 15 percent discount on selected flights to and from Abu Dhabi. The promotion applies to bookings for travel between 1 May and 30 June 2025, providing travellers with the opportunity to experience a variety of vibrant and culturally rich destinations at even more affordable rates. The discounted fares are now available for booking through wizzair.com and the Wizz Air mobile application. Johan Eidhagen, Managing Director of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, stated: "At Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, we are committed to offering affordable, high-quality travel options that enable more people to explore new destinations and create lasting memories. Our 15 percent summer discount underscores our dedication to providing exceptional value to our customers while supporting the continued growth of Abu Dhabi as a leading travel hub. We look forward to welcoming more travellers on board and delivering outstanding experiences across our diverse network." Travellers are encouraged to secure their bookings promptly to take advantage of this limited time offer and explore the world with Wizz Air Abu Dhabi. * This promotion applies on bookings made from 1 May to 30 June 2025 from 00.00 till 23.59 CEST (“Promotional period”). The 15% discount applies to selected flights. The promotion applies only to bookings made on https://wizzair.com or on the WIZZ mobile app. *
Abu Dhabi hotels witnessed 18% revenue surge in Q1 2025, with +25% RevPAR
The General view of Abu Dhabi city at Sunset on April 26, 2018 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Rustam Azmi/Getty Images) Following a landmark 2024, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is set to showcase the emirate’s continued momentum as a globally appealing destination at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. With tourism and hotel figures presenting sustained growth in Q1 2025, Abu Dhabi remains firmly on track to meet ambitious visitor targets for the year ahead. Abu Dhabi's tourism sector is off to a strong start in 2025, welcoming 1.4 million overnight guests in the first quarter of the year. DCT Abu Dhabi’s participation at ATM will highlight Abu Dhabi’s growing popularity as a destination for international visitors, with guest numbers growing in Q1 2025 compared to the same period last year. The emirate drew visitors from top tier targets markets and beyond—with best performing markets including India, China, Russia, the UK, and the USA. This positive momentum translated into significant gains for the industry, with hotels generating AED 2.3 billion in revenue, an 18% increase compared to the same period last year, and revenue per available room (RevPAR) reaching AED 484, a 25% year-on-year increase. Hotel occupancy maintained high levels during the period, including in Ramadan, recording 79% across the emirate. These early indicators reflect that Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector is on track to reach its target of contributing AED 62 billion to the economy in 2025, a 13% increase from 2024, and supporting 255,000 jobs across the emirate in 2025. This sustained success reflects Abu Dhabi’s evolving and increasingly distinctive value proposition and offerings, driven by the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Our strategic approach to elevating Abu Dhabi as a cultural and tourism destination is delivering tangible results. Sustained investment into data-led destination marketing, diversified programming, a culture-first ethos and ever-improving visitor experience touchpoints have driven robust growth in Q1 2025, building on a strong 2024. As we showcase the offerings of our emirate at Arabian Travel Market, we are focused on strengthening our key partnerships, expanding our global reach, and accelerating progress towards our long-term tourism goals—all while ensuring that Abu Dhabi’s unique cultural identity remains at the heart of everything we offer.” Q1 growth continues from strong 2024 performance In 2024, Abu Dhabi's tourism sector witnessed positive performance across multiple metrics. Last year, the emirate welcomed a 7% year-on-year increase in overall hotel and alternative accommodation guests combined, with international overnight visitors reaching 3.2 million—a 28% year-on-year surge. Last year, hotel occupancy rates reached 79% across the emirate. This strong demand translated into substantial gains, as total hotel revenue grew by 18.1% year-on-year, generating over AED 7.6 billion. RevPAR also climbed by 22%, reflecting the industry's robust profitability. Supporting this growth, DCT Abu Dhabi significantly expanded its global marketing efforts, increasing operations from 11 markets in 2023 to 25 markets in 2024, with a focus on emerging regions such as the CIS, APAC, and Eastern Europe. Home to world-class museums, contemporary art, rich heritage, a diverse culinary landscape, and hospitality rooted in Emirati values, Abu Dhabi has established itself as a destination where culture is reimagined to deliver meaningful impact and experiences. At ATM 2025, DCT Abu Dhabi will bring this cultural and creative story to life at its experiential stand, welcoming travel trade partners, media, and industry leaders to explore the destination’s latest developments, partnerships, and opportunities. Now open to the public, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is a key addition to Saadiyat Cultural District, which will be one of the greatest concentrations of world-leading cultural and educational institutions. Already home to Louvre Abu Dhabi, the District is growing as an unparalleled community of museums and cultural landmarks, and in 2025 will welcome Zayed National Museum, the national museum of the UAE, and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, narrating the story of life on earth and the origins of our universe. Also on track for completion is Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, featuring a global collection of modern and contemporary art that reflects the diversity of cultures and trends from around the world. The addition of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi reinforces the emirate’s position as a global cultural epicentre, offering visitors a unique and transformative experience while showcasing its commitment to creativity, innovation and cultural collaboration on a global scale. The Experience Abu Dhabi stand at ATM 2025 Aligned with ATM 2025’s theme of ‘Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’, the Experience Abu Dhabi stand will showcase key cultural sites and attractions across the emirate, with a focus on Saadiyat Cultural District, a global platform for cultural exchange, and Al Ain Region and Al Dhafra Region, offering visitors a diverse blend of wellness, nature, and adventure. Organised by DCT Abu Dhabi and located in Sheikh Saeed Hall, the Experience Abu Dhabi stand will offer a programme of activations and experiences, joined by 73 key trade and tourism partners from across the emirate, including Etihad, Miral, Yas Island, hospitality representatives, and many more. Abu Dhabi’s upward trajectory is aligned with the Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract 39.3 million visitors annually, support the creation of 178,000 new tourism jobs, expand hotel capacity to 50,000 rooms, and contribute AED 90 billion to the emirate’s GDP by the end of the decade.
Air Arabia launches non-stop flights from Abu Dhabi to Almaty
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, the capital’s first low-cost carrier, announces the addition of a new non-stop route to Almaty in Kazakhstan from Zayed International Airport. Starting June 3rd, 2025, the new service will operate three times a week every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday. Schedule to Almaty, effective June 3rd, 2025 (all times local): Flight Departure Time Arrival Time Aircraft Frequency 3L 781 Abu Dhabi 09:20 Almaty 14:35 Airbus A320 Tuesday/Friday/Sunday 3L 782 Almaty 15:35 Abu Dhabi 19:20 Airbus A320 Tuesday/Friday/Sunday Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, said: “We are glad to launch our new service to Almaty, further expanding our international reach from Zayed International Airport. This new route reflects our commitment to offering passengers affordable and reliable travel options while enhancing connectivity from the UAE’s capital with key international markets.” He added:” As we aim to contribute to the city’s growth as a leading hub for tourism and business, we remain focused on meeting the growing demand for low-cost travel, offering our passengers even greater choice and convenience.” With the addition of Almaty, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi now connects 30 destinations directly from Zayed International Airport, offering travellers a broad range of options for both regional and international travel. The new route reinforces Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s commitment to connecting the UAE’s capital to diverse international destinations while promoting tourism and trade between the two cities. Almaty, known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage, is an ideal destination for both leisure and business travellers. Air Arabia Abu Dhabi operates a modern fleet of 10 Airbus A320 aircraft, the most modern and best-selling single aisle aircraft in the world. Offering passengers, a value-added onboard experience, the aircraft is equipped with ‘SkyTime’, a free in-flight streaming, and ‘SkyCafe’ an onboard catering service at affordable prices. In addition, Air Arabia offers ‘Air Rewards’ an innovative and generous loyalty program through which passengers can earn, transfer, and spend points. Customers can now book their direct flights between the two cities by visiting Air Arabia’s website, or by calling the call centre or through travel agencies.
Etihad to launch direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Thailand
Etihad Airways is set to enhance its connectivity to Thailand with the launch of two new direct flights from Abu Dhabi in 2025. These new routes will provide travellers with convenient access to two of Thailand's most captivating destinations. Krabi, nestled in southern Thailand, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Known for its stunning limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, Krabi offers a plethora of attractions. Visitors can explore the famous Railay Beach, accessible only by boat, or take a trip to the picturesque Phi Phi Islands. The region boasts unique experiences such as the Emerald Pool, Tiger Cave Temple, and the 75 Million-Year-Old Shell Cemetery. Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, presents a stark contrast to Krabi's coastal beauty. As the cultural capital of Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a rich tapestry of history, art, and cuisine. Visitors can explore ancient temples, vibrant night markets, and participate in traditional Thai cooking classes. The city also serves as a gateway to the lush mountains and hill tribe villages of northern Thailand. Flight schedules are below: KBV: Flight No. Departure Airport Departure Time Arrival Airport Arrival Time Frequency EY 424 AUH 08:40 KBV 18:30 Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun EY 425 KBV 20:50 AUH 00:40+1 Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun CNX: Flight No. Departure Airport Departure Time Arrival Airport Arrival Time Frequency EY 426 AUH 21:20 CNX 05:55+1 Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun EY 427 CNX 08:45 AUH 13:00 Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat
113 private residences open at Mandarin Oriental Residences Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi
Situated in one of the region’s most prestigious cultural destinations, these exclusive residences offer a seamless blend of architectural innovation by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and refined interiors by Lillian Wu Studio, embodying the essence of modern luxury. Overlooking Zayed National Museum, each residence is meticulously designed with bespoke finishes, floor-to-ceiling windows, and open-plan layouts that enhance natural light and panoramic views. Residents can select from one- to four-bedroom homes and five-bedroom penthouses, all crafted with an elegant fusion of organic textures and contemporary elements. Residents will experience the signature lifestyle of Mandarin Oriental, with access to an extensive suite of exclusive amenities, including the Mandarin Oriental Cake Shop, a Signature Spa, wellness studio, indoor and outdoor pools, squash court, private cinema, and residents’ lounge. Every detail is designed to provide an unparalleled living experience, combining privacy, comfort, and world-class hospitality.
Etihad opens bookings for flights between Abu Dhabi and Medan
Medan, Indonesia Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is making flights to Medan, the gateway to Northern Sumatra, available for booking. The airline will start flights between Kualanamu International Airport (KNO), Medan and Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi (AUH) on 2 October 2025, operating on one of its new A321LR aircraft three times a week, timed to make the most of a leisure break. Medan, the capital of North Sumatra in Indonesia, is known for its vibrant culture, diverse culinary scene, and historical landmarks. The destination is just one of 14 already announced by Etihad this year, with more expected to come.
China Eastern Airlines to launch direct flights between Shanghai and Abu Dhabi
China Eastern Airlines has announced the launch of direct flights connecting Shanghai and Abu Dhabi, set to commence on 28th April 2025. This marks the first time a Chinese airline has introduced a direct route between the two cities. According to China Daily, the Shanghai-Abu Dhabi route will be jointly operated by China Eastern Airlines and Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi. Flights are scheduled to operate every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Departures will occur from Shanghai Pudong International Airport, with return flights from Abu Dhabi on the same day (local time). Abu Dhabi's strategic location, free trade zone policies, and strong presence in the energy and financial sectors support Chinese enterprises expanding their global footprint. The new route is expected to enhance trade, investment, and cultural exchanges between the UAE and China. It will also strengthen connectivity between the Yangtze River Delta region and the Gulf region, facilitating smoother business and tourism flows. It will also boost tourism in both Shanghai and Abu Dhabi, contributing to the growth of the hospitality and aviation sectors.
Abu Dhabi to introduce the world’s largest drone light show
Abu Dhabi to introduce the world's largest drone light show Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has witnessed the signing of a strategic partnership agreement between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), Colorado-based Nova Sky Stories, and Abu Dhabi-headquartered Analog, an Emirati company, specialised in physical intelligence and mixed reality. Through this multi-year partnership agreement, Abu Dhabi is set to launch a pioneering initiative that will integrate cutting-edge drone technology into large-scale immersive storytelling, further solidifying its position as a global hub for innovation in culture and entertainment. The synchronised drone performances will create artistic narratives across multiple iconic locations, weaving together the emirate's rich heritage and dynamic future. It will introduce the world's most advanced fleet of 10,000 light-show drones, a first-of-its-kind initiative in the region, blending cultural narratives with advanced drone technology to create immersive experiences. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: "By harnessing innovative technologies, we are finding new and immersive ways to share our vision and culture with the world. At the intersection of creativity and entertainment, this partnership with Nova Sky and Analog will challenge convention, raising the bar for what residents and visitors can experience. These visual spectacles reinforce Abu Dhabi's leading position in entertainment innovation, delivering experiential and memorable moments for all." Kimbal Musk, CEO and Co-Founder of Nova Sky Stories, said: "We are excited to be part of this partnership with DCT Abu Dhabi. With this pioneering initiative, Abu Dhabi is at the forefront of embracing innovation and will have the largest fleet of the most advanced light drones in the world for storytelling and entertainment. Nova empowers the world's greatest artists and musicians to bring their art to the sky and we cannot wait to show the world what is possible with a fleet this size." Alex Kipman, Founder and CEO of Analog, said: "Abu Dhabi's skyline is set to become a dynamic canvas for storytelling. We are painting holographic stories in the sky, fusing tradition with next-generation technology so audiences can feel that spark of wonder only possible when imagination meets reality. At Analog, we exist to birth new realities, and in partnership with Nova Sky Stories, DCT Abu Dhabi is reimagining what entertainment can be—one that honours Abu Dhabi's heritage and sets the bar for immersive experiences worldwide." A New Dimension of Storytelling Powered by real-time synchronisation and adaptive intelligence, these dynamic drone formations will reimagine the possibilities of live entertainment, making Abu Dhabi's skyline an evolving canvas for innovation.
Radisson Blu Hotel Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi
Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Hawthorn Suites By Wyndham Abu Dhabi City Center
Hawthorn Suites By Wyndham Abu Dhabi City Center - شارع السلام - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel And Villas
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel And Villas - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Erth Abu Dhabi
Erth Abu Dhabi (Armed Forces Officers Club and Hotel) - Road - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi - Yas Island - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Yas Island Rotana Abu Dhabi
Yas Island Rotana - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management
Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau
Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
December 2024 – GXT 2024, Guest Xperience Tech Summit & Expo
The program for the Guest Experience Tech Summit & Expo explores how technology transforms customer experiences across sectors. Through keynote sessions, panels, and workshops, attendees discover topics such as AI, automation, sustainability, and analytics. From reshaping guest interactions with AI and IoT to driving operational efficiency and sustainability, participants gain actionable insights to innovate in guest experiences.