Fortuitously situated between East and West, Abu Dhabi could be considered the gateway to the world – a popular layover hub for travellers journeying from Americas and Europe to Asia and the Antipodes, and vice versa. And while the international airport boasts many amenities to keep transiting travellers well-fed and entertained, it would be a shame to land in one of the most exciting cities on the globe and never leave the terminal. Etihad, the flagship airline of the United Arab Emirates, agrees, and has made an attractive proposal for travellers looking to explore the UAE capital: an Abu Dhabi stopover ‘on the house’.

Select Your Stopover

Catering for travellers of all budgets and preferences, Etihad is offering a choice between two appealing packages. Economically minded explorers will gravitate towards the complimentary stopover option, which offers up to two nights in a three-star hotel with Etihad footing the bill. Jet-setters seeking additional creature comforts and a longer stopover, on the other hand, will delight in the premium package that grants up to 40% off of two- to four-night stays in Abu Dhabi’s most exclusive hotels, with buffet breakfast included, as well as the freedom to choose your preferred room category. Both packages guarantee 24-hour check-in, in-room WiFi and a 48-hour transit visa, all at no extra cost.

Taking advantage of the offer is as simple as booking an international flight with Etihad Airways that connects through Abu Dhabi, and then logging on to etihad.com to select your ideal stopover and check hotel availability.

Discover Abu Dhabi

With your stopover booked, there’s nothing left to do but enjoy your time in the city that has it all.

Delve into Abu Dhabi’s fascinating history and thriving contemporary cultural scene with a visit to landmarks like the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the beautiful Qasr Al Watan ‘Palace of the Nation’, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, with its varied art galleries and its captivating architecture by Jean Nouvel. Go for a stroll along the scenic Corniche Road, get a bird’s-eye view from the 160-metre Capital Gate, and browse for souvenirs at some of the best shopping centres in the world, such as the Yas Mall, Marina Mall and the Galleria Al Maryah.

Outside of the city centre, lovers of nature and sports will be particularly spoilt for choice, with wildlife-spotting at Mangrove National Park, surfing and kayaking in the Arabian Gulf, white-water rafting and zip lining at Wadi Adventure, golfing at Yas Links, engaging in a wide range of athletic pursuits at Zayed Sports City, or simply relaxing under the sun at the many serene white-sand beaches with their aquamarine waters.

Kids, meanwhile, will be entertained for hours on end at the many theme parks and attractions made for learning, exploring and having a blast. From the thrilling rides and shows at Ferrari World™ and Warner Bros. World™, to the engaging displays at the Arabian Heritage Village, the heart-pounding races at Yas Marina Circuit, the immersive nature lessons at Al Ain Oasis, and the splash-filled fun at Yas Waterworld, there’s never a dull moment in Abu Dhabi – whatever your age.

For full Terms & Conditions please visit the Etihad website or click here to download.