The preferred sales agreements are two of 45 signed by Hala Abu Dhabi with key tour operators across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Australia to expand the reach of Etihad Airways’ popular ‘Stopover in Abu Dhabi’ program.

The program allows travellers from Cyprus and other countries to break their journeys in Abu Dhabi, capital of the UAE, and enjoy exclusive privileges, such as overnight accommodation, complimentary visas and golf course access, before continuing on to their final destinations.

As a result of the new partnerships, the incentives can now be booked through the 45 tour operators, in addition to Etihad Airways’ website and the halaabudhabi@etihad.ae email.

A number of Etihad Airways’ sales team members from across the world have also been appointed as destination and product champions by Hala Abu Dhabi. The first two groups of international champions and tour operators under the preferred sales agreements recently visited Abu Dhabi, where they took part in product, systems and destination training.

Peter Baumgartner, Chief Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, said: “We are excited to build on the popularity of our ‘Stopover in Abu Dhabi’ program with these leading tour operators, which already have a successful track record in selling Etihad Airways flights.

Our expanded partnerships will increase tourism traffic into Abu Dhabi by showcasing the emirate as a vibrant holiday destination and offering generous incentives to visitors. It also supports Hala Abu Dhabi’s continued growth and we will continue the momentum by partnering with 15 additional tour operators and champions at the end of this year.”

The ‘Stopover in Abu Dhabi’ program includes:

- Essential Stopover – guests are able to enjoy their first night free if staying a minimum of two nights. Rates start at US$36 per person for two nights on Bed and Breakfast basis. - Premium Stopover – for guests travelling in premium cabins. Guests in First Class are entitled to complimentary accommodation for two nights in a five star hotel in Abu Dhabi. Guests in Business Class receive one night complimentary in a five star hotel. - Transit Golf – guests who transit in Abu Dhabi between six to 12 hours can take advantage of playing a nine-hole golf course or pool access at Yas Links until their next flight. - Complimentary visa stopovers – for nationals who require a UAE entry visa. Hala Abu Dhabi will facilitate a complimentary UAE visa when booking two nights’ accommodation.

Source: Financial Mirror