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Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme Drives Surge in International Visitors

Etihad Airways and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi have reported a substantial increase in international visitors through their Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme. The initiative welcomed 24,000 travellers in the first half of 2024, a 242% rise from the 7,000 visitors recorded in the latter half of 2023. This growth positions the programme to meet its target of attracting 75,000 stopover guests by the end of the year.

The programme offers Etihad passengers the option to include a one or two-night complimentary hotel stay in Abu Dhabi during their journey. This feature has been particularly appealing to travellers from England, the United States, Australia, European Union countries, and India, with an average stay duration of two nights. Enhancements to the booking process, including a more user-friendly landing page on etihad.com, have contributed to a 43% increase in web traffic from potential visitors seeking information about Abu Dhabi.

Etihad Airways' Chief Executive Officer, Antonoaldo Neves, noted that the growth of the Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme has significantly exceeded projections, highlighting Abu Dhabi's appeal as a destination and the programme's effectiveness in encouraging travellers to experience the emirate. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, emphasized the success of the programme as a testament to the power of strategic partnerships in driving tourism growth.

The Abu Dhabi Pass, introduced as part of the initiative, provides passengers with benefits such as a tourist SIM card with 10GB data, unlimited access to public buses, and 24-hour access to a hop-on-hop-off bus network. Additionally, pass holders receive discounts at various attractions, including Qasr Al Watan, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and theme parks on Yas Island, as well as deals at over 200 restaurants across the emirate.

This initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi's broader tourism strategy, which aims to attract 39.3 million visitors and contribute AED 90 billion to the local economy by 2030. To support these goals, the city is expanding its airport and hosting more cultural and entertainment events.
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