Tag Archives: Abu Dhabi

Ethara, the organisers of the Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, announced that the 2025 race week broke attendance records with a combined total of 339,000 fans across events. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025 featured the three-way title battle between the McLarens of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, contributing to the record 203,000 attendance at Yas Marina Circuit – a near 6% jump from 192,000 in 2024. In addition to the on-track drama — ending with with Verstappen winning the race and Norris claiming his first drivers’ title — the Yasalam presented by e& entertainment programme drew a record 136,000 fans (an increase of nearly 9% from 2024 attendance of 125,300) across four nights of Emirates NBD After-Race Concerts featuring Benson Boone, Elyanna, Post Malone, Metallica and Katy Perry, and Official After-Parties with Idris Elba, Calvin Harris and Keinemusik. Saif Rashid Al Noaimi, CEO, Ethara, said, “This year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be remembered for decades with the F1 title battle unfolding under the floodlights of Yas Marina Circuit. At Ethara, we’re proud to have delivered the weekend befitting such a historic occasion. We welcomed more fans than ever, underpinned by a world-class entertainment programme and innovations to the fan experience including the introduction of new hospitality concepts, new on-site activations, and enhanced Abu Dhabi-wide ticket inclusions – all contributing to an unforgettable event. Abu Dhabi has once again proven it’s the ultimate destination for the F1 season finale.” Among the new offerings this year was extended track access for the fans, including two public pit lane walks and FAB Track Walks on Thursday. Capped by Benson Boone’s dazzling performance at the After-Race Concert, Thursday became …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has launched two new e-learning modules for its Experience Abu Dhabi Experts Platform. The Official Abu Dhabi Pass and Ramadan in Abu Dhabi online modules are designed to equip travel trade industry professionals with the insights and tools they need to deliver exceptional travel planning and guest experiences and further reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading year-round destination.  The e-learning platform provides travel trade industry professionals with an extensive range of destination-related information about the emirate and has become one of DCT Abu Dhabi’s most successful trade engagement initiatives. The new Abu Dhabi Pass and Ramadan content has a strong focus on destination insights that ensure agents have the necessary understanding they need to promote the region and what it has to offer. Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “These new modules reflect how the Experience Abu Dhabi Experts Platform continues to evolve and how we prioritise providing our partners with practical, hands-on tools that make a real difference to how they sell the destination. Whether it’s helping them package the emirate’s leading attractions through the Abu Dhabi Pass or giving them the cultural insight to guide visitors respectfully during the holy month, this expansion ensures the knowledge they gain translates directly into stronger product design, more memorable experiences, and greater visitor satisfaction.” Issued by DCT Abu Dhabi’s official digital pass for Abu Dhabi offers guests savings of up to 50% across more than 70 of Abu Dhabi’s top attractions, including Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi. The module provides an overview …

Etihad Airways and Condor announced a strategic partnership alongside the launch of new daily flights connecting Frankfurt and Berlin to Abu Dhabi starting Summer 2026 and an extensive codeshare agreement. From 1 May 2026, Condor will operate daily services between Frankfurt and Abu Dhabi using its Airbus A330 aircraft, followed by the launch of daily Berlin-Abu Dhabi flights from 15 June 2026 operated by Airbus A320 aircraft. The new services will significantly broaden direct access to Abu Dhabi for German travellers, with seamless onward connections to Etihad’s extensive network across the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Australia. Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “We are delighted to announce this strategic partnership with Condor and welcome their new services to Abu Dhabi. Germany is a vital market for Etihad, and adding Berlin alongside new Frankfurt options meets clear passenger demand – including a direct capital-to-capital link that further strengthens UAE-Germany ties. “Above all, this partnership puts the traveller first: Condor guests will discover Abu Dhabi’s award-winning hub and seamless onward journeys across our extensive network, while our customers will benefit from enhanced connectivity to destinations across Germany and beyond.” “This codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways is the great foundation on which we are building our new services to Abu Dhabi to better connect Germany’s capital Berlin and Europe’s financial hub Frankfurt to the GCC and beyond,” said Jens Boyd, Commercial Director and Member of the Executive Committee of Condor. “As we build and expand connectivity within Europe from our home hub in Frankfurt, this first codeshare in Asia is one more step towards Condor becoming a true global player and partnering with the leading airlines across …

Etihad Airways launched its inaugural flight to Kazan, establishing a direct link between one of Russia’s fastest-growing cities and Abu Dhabi, the gateway to exceptional travel experiences across the Middle East, Asia, and beyond. The new route, operating three times weekly, brings these two dynamic destinations within easy reach, with a flight time of just over five hours. For travellers from Kazan and across Russia, Abu Dhabi offers year-round sunshine, world-class attractions, and seamless connections to Etihad’s extensive global network. Flight EY839 touched down at Kazan International Airport this afternoon, greeted with a ceremonial welcome, marking the start of a new travel corridor for business and leisure travellers. Operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, the service is perfectly timed for weekend escapes or extended holidays. “We’re delighted to welcome guests from Kazan to discover Abu Dhabi, a city that beautifully blends Emirati heritage with contemporary innovation,” said Natalia Goryunova, Country Manager Russia at Etihad Airways. “Through our Abu Dhabi hub, passengers can enjoy seamless connections to Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, the GCC region, and Australia, opening up exceptional travel opportunities across Etihad’s global network. Whether exploring Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, pristine beaches, and thriving dining scene, or connecting onwards to destinations throughout our network, this flight opens up a world of possibilities for travellers in both directions.” Abu Dhabi welcomes visitors with its stunning cultural attractions including the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi, alongside world-class entertainment at Yas Island’s theme parks and the year-round sunshine that makes the UAE capital an ideal winter escape. The city’s blend of traditional Emirati hospitality and modern luxury creates an unforgettable experience for international guests. For Abu Dhabi residents …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) hosted an exclusive CIS (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Armenia) Marketplace in Al Ain Region on 14 October, connecting over 200 travel trade partners from the region with more than 50 Abu Dhabi-based stakeholders, including hotels, attractions, and destination management companies. The event is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with industry partners from key markets and boost visitor numbers to the emirate. Abu Dhabi has experienced a significant uptick in hotel guests from the CIS region, with Armenia and Ukraine seeing increases of 17.4% and 48.5% respectively (July year-to-date) compared to the same period in 2024. This positive trend is further bolstered by enhanced accessibility, reflected in strong increases in CIS flight capacity, with key markets like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan growing by nearly 17% and 22% respectively. These figures, coupled with high visitor satisfaction rates, paint a clear picture of CIS travellers eager for more of what Abu Dhabi has to offer. The event featured a range of discussions, networking opportunities, and familiarisation activities designed to ignite collaboration and educate CIS travel partners on Abu Dhabi’s extensive offering. From the vibrant capital city to the historic sites of Al Ain Region, the array of diverse experiences makes Abu Dhabi a destination with endless travel possibilities. Attendees will also experience traditional Emirati performances and engage in cultural workshops. Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The CIS region is a crucial and fast-growing market for Abu Dhabi, and building strong local partnerships is essential. This marketplace offers a direct way to present Abu Dhabi’s unique attractions and, more importantly, it allows us to listen, collaborate, and …

Rashed Darwish Al Ketbi (RDK) Commercial Investments and Marriott International announced a signed agreement to open a St. Regis resort in Abu Dhabi’s Mirfa region. Expected to open in 2029, The St. Regis Mirfa Beach Resort, Abu Dhabi is anticipated to offer an all-villa, waterfront sanctuary nestled along the serene shores of Mirfa featuring the timeless elegance of the St. Regis brand. “We continue to witness a robust appetite for luxury experiences across the UAE and look forward to introducing the St. Regis brand to the tranquil coastal enclave of Mirfa,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “The St. Regis Mirfa Beach Resort, Abu Dhabi will offer a truly distinctive escape—one that honours the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, while delivering the timeless elegance and bespoke service that define the St. Regis legacy.” “We are proud to expand our longstanding relationship with Marriott International through the introduction of the St. Regis brand in Mirfa — a location of remarkable natural beauty and untapped potential,” said Raja Zeidan, Chief Operation Officer of RDK Commercial Investments. “Guided by our visionary Chairman, Mr. Rashed Darwish Al Ketbi, this collaboration reflects our continued commitment to shaping exceptional destinations that honor their environment while setting a new benchmark in luxury hospitality for the region.” The St. Regis Mirfa Beach Resort, Abu Dhabi is anticipated to feature a collection of 63 private beachfront and floating villas designed in harmony with unobstructed views of the coastline. Each villa is expected to offer a seamless indoor-outdoor experience with expansive sea views, floating pools, upper and lower decks, skylight flooring, shaded canopies and private lifts. Other planned amenities include an array …

Modon Hospitality announced the launch of a luxury active lifestyle resort, the Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi. Modon Hospitality owns, operates and manages a select portfolio of hotels, restaurants, clubs and lifestyle destinations in the UAE, across the region and worldwide. With more than 28 assets and over 150 dining experiences across five countries, Modon Hospitality combines global expertise and versatility with Abu Dhabi’s vision to deliver memorable experiences fuelled by purpose, precision, and passion. Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi, the new sports and wellness offering, where movement meets relaxation, is designed for all and is set to redefine healthy living and performance-based hospitality on Abu Dhabi’s Hudayriyat Island, a destination owned and developed by Modon Holding, through active stays, recovery, movement, holistic wellness, healthy cuisine, leisure and relaxation. The innovative wellness facilities include the state-of-the-art Reboot Recovery Lounge, giving guests access to the very best in modern recovery science, including the health benefits of altitude training, traditionally used by elite athletes, and now accessible to all guests. The lounge features cutting-edge compression technology, next-generation biohacking tools, and tailored treatments that help accelerate recovery, boost circulation, and optimise overall performance. Benefits include improved heart and lung health, weight management, and better endurance. Olympia Resort Abu Dhabi’s pioneering design includes unique features such as inter-connecting family rooms, spa and wellness facilities, and a range of organic, nutrition-focused dining options. Selected guest rooms include hypoxic technology to aid athletic recovery and performance. Guests can also enjoy the unique benefits of the Olympia Recovery Mattress, crafted to support muscle repair, improve circulation, and enhance deep, restorative sleep. Designed with advanced foams, pocket springs, and cooling fabric, it helps the body recover overnight, so you wake …

The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi will open to the public on 22 November in Saadiyat Cultural District, marking a significant cultural milestone for the emirate. As the largest museum of its kind in the region, it represents a new global destination for science, nature, and education, inviting visitors to explore the story of life on our planet and engage in conversations about its future. The 35,000-square-metre museum is an exciting addition to the UAE’s evolving cultural landscape. It takes visitors on an immersive journey through 13.8 billion years of natural history – from the Big Bang and the formation of our solar system to the evolution of life, including the rise and fall of dinosaurs and the extraordinary biodiversity of our planet. Among the highlights of the museum are three travellers from deep time. One is the famed specimen affectionately known as Stan, a nearly complete skeleton of a mighty Tyrannosaurus rex, an apex predator which ruled the Earth 67 million years ago. It is joined by the largest animal ever known, represented by a magnificent, 25-metre female blue whale specimen, offering extraordinary insight into evolution, marine biodiversity, and the planet’s ongoing story of life. Completing the trio is the Murchison Meteorite – an artefact that witnessed the formation of our planet and contains 7-billion-year-old grains formed even before our Solar System. H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “The opening of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi marks a major milestone in our journey to shape the emirate’s cultural landscape. The museum offers an immersive look at the story of life on Earth, framed for the first time …

Etihad Airways has officially launched its new route connecting Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa, further strengthening ties between the UAE and Ethiopia. The inaugural flight, which took off last week, marks a major milestone in Etihad’s network expansion and enhances connectivity between the two nations. The new service aims to support tourism, and cultural exchange, providing passengers with a direct link to Ethiopia’s capital, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and growing business opportunities. The route reflects Etihad’s strategy to expand its international footprint and meet rising demand for travel in the region. Passengers can expect modern aircraft, enhanced schedules, and high-quality service, whether travelling for business or leisure. With this addition, Etihad Airways continues to reinforce its position as a leading carrier in regional and international aviation, offering travellers new opportunities for connection and exploration.

Etihad Airways launched its new daily flights to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, connecting Zayed International Airport (AUH) with Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD). The inaugural flights operated at full capacity in both directions, reflecting the strong demand for travel between the two capitals. The service marks Etihad’s debut into Ethiopia, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation hubs. The launch also coincides with the formal activation of Etihad’s landmark Joint Venture with Ethiopian Airlines, announced earlier this year, which enhances collaboration between the two flag carriers and expands seamless travel options between Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Under the new Joint Venture, Etihad and Ethiopian Airlines will coordinate schedules and jointly develop routes, offering guests more choice and convenience while strengthening trade, tourism and cultural links between both regions. The agreement also paves the way for broader cooperation in areas including loyalty programmes, training and cargo, underscoring the airlines’ shared commitment to deliver a smoother, more connected travel experience for guests. Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said “The launch of our daily flights to Addis Ababa creates a bridge between two regions with expanding connections and growing economic relations. It also marks the formal start of our landmark Joint Venture with Ethiopian Airlines, a partnership that will redefine connectivity between Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Together, we are creating more opportunities for trade, tourism and collaboration, while giving our guests access to an even broader network through our respective hubs in Abu Dhabi and Addis Ababa.” Through the Joint Venture, Etihad guests can now reach more than 55 destinations across 33 African countries via Ethiopian’s hub in Addis Ababa, while Ethiopian Airlines customers …