LONDON – Etihad Airways, one of two United Arab Emirates national carriers, is gearing up to fly and welcome over 1.5 million travellers through its home hub, Abu Dhabi International Airport this winter.
With the World Cup kicking off in nearby Qatar this weekend, there is likely to be thousands of football fans basing themselves in neighbouring Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
It has been well documented that both of these UAE countries have had seen an increase in accommodation bookings to avoid the eye wateringly priced hotels and holiday rentals in Qatar, to then take a short plane journey to watch the matches live.
The Formula 1 season finale is set to take place this weekend, with Sunday being race day. Etihad will undoubtedly be flying many race goers into AUH in preparation for the weekends racing. What proved to be a must-watch nail biter last year, isn’t poised quite as nicely as it was in 2021.
Nevertheless, that will not stop its usual dedicated race fans heading to the capital of the UAE to watch one of the most glamorous F1 races on the circuit. Other key events that will bring business and leisure travellers alike include: The Abu Dhabi Boat show and the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship at Yas Links in early 2023.
“There has never been a better time to experience Abu Dhabi, with the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix taking place this weekend and many more attractions to be enjoyed over the winter season.”
“Football fans from around the world will also be flocking to the region ahead of the most exciting football event of the year. As a result, Etihad with its partners, is geared up and ready to host 1.5 million expected guests over the next six weeks.”
“Visitors flying via Abu Dhabi will enjoy the experience from the moment they take off with Etihad’s award-winning Cabin Crew and hospitality,” said Shaeb Al Najjar, General Manager of Hub Operations for Etihad Airways.
The Airlines award winning cabin crew and hospitality picked up the prize for “Best Airline Staff Service the Middle East” at this years Skytrax awards.
Etihad has issued advice on how to get the best out of its service if travelling with them over the coming months. Checking in either online or from home, checking in early, arriving at the airport early and double checking fight times and terminal of departure before leaving home.
One advantage for anyone flying to the United States from Abu Dhabi is that they can utilise the US Customs and Border Protection facility at the airport. This enables travellers to clear United States immigration whilst still in the city of departure. Ultimately decreasing the time spent in the airport when they land the other side of the Atlantic.
For anyone in the city then there is also the bonus of being able to check in using City check-in by Morafiq. This facility at the Mina Zayed opens 12 hours a day, and for an extra cost enables passengers to deal with excess baggage allowance, picking or upgrading seats. This service can be used between 4 and 24 hours in advance of their flights departure.
