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Etihad Airways: Everything you need to know before booking a flight
Etihad Airways is one of the UAE's two official flag carrier airlines. Alongside the larger and more famous Emirates Air, Etihad flies travellers all over the world. It's based in glamorous Abu Dhabi, so savvy passengers can add a stopover of a couple of days for a quick city break on their journey. Read on for all you need to know about flying with Etihad Airways.
Etihad Airways at a glance
Etihad Airways is a national flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates. Based in the Emirati city of Abu Dhabi, it flies to over 90 destinations around the world. Etihad Airways is not as famous as other airlines in the region, like Qatar Air, but it also offers a high-quality in-flight experience.
The lowdown on Etihad Airways
It is based at Zayed International Airport (AUH) in Abu Dhabi.
Its frequent flyer programme is called Etihad Guest. Branded credit cards are available to earn extra miles.
It is not a member of any major airline alliances, but it has partnerships with several other airlines.
Tips and tricks for flying Etihad Airways
All food served at Etihad is halal. A number of special meals are available, including children's meals, but you'll need to book them at least four hours before take-off.
Etihad supplies all passengers, including those in economy class, with comfortable blankets and pillows.
Etihad Airways serves alcohol on its flights, with the exception of flights to Saudi Arabia. These are always alcohol-free.
Flying through Abu Dhabi with Etihad
The remodelled Abu Dhabi International Airport has just one terminal, with 45 million passengers passing through each year. The airport was remodelled in 2023, so it is extremely modern with plenty of handy amenities. Officially, the minimum transfer time at the airport is 45 minutes – or 120 minutes if you are flying to the USA. Like many Middle Eastern airports, Abu Dhabi does not have an overnight break and instead has flights departing all around the clock.
A stopover in Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways
Etihad has some special deals to encourage passengers to spend time in Abu Dhabi during their journey. Notably, if you book an Abu Dhabi stopover as part of your trip, you can get a complimentary two-night stay at a hotel in the city. Adding an Abu Dhabi stopover to your holiday is an excellent choice, as it gives you the chance to enjoy a couple of days in this fascinating destination.
Cultural attractions in Abu Dhabi
Visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This mosque is open to non-Muslims, and guided tours are available.
Learn about Emirati history at Wahat Al Karama, a monument park dedicated to the country's national heroes.
Check out the masterpieces in the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the sister gallery of the famous Parisian art museum.
Family fun in Abu Dhabi
Visit some of the city's amazing theme parks. Warner Brothers World, Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld are all top family attractions.
Head out to the sand dunes and enjoy an exhilarating 4x4 drive through the desert.
Relax in one of the city's beach clubs, enjoying the warm sun and clear sea before you continue your journey.
Plan your next holiday with a stopover in Abu Dhabi along the way. Book your flights with Etihad Airways today and enjoy comfort and style on your journey. Check out our best deals for flights with Etihad, and make your booking now!
Etihad Airways FAQs
Q: Where does Etihad fly from in the UK?
A: Etihad Airways flies from two British airports. It has three daily departures from London Heathrow's Terminal 4 and two flights a day from Manchester Airport. All the flights from both London and Manchester fly direct to Abu Dhabi, which takes just under seven hours.
Q: What cities does Etihad fly to in Europe?
A: Etihad Airways has routes that link its base in Abu Dhabi with several European cities. Its European destinations include Amsterdam, Barcelona, Brussels, Dublin, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Geneva, Istanbul, Paris, Málaga, Vienna and Zurich, as well as its flights to British airports.
Q: Is Etihad luxurious?
A: Etihad is renowned for the luxury of its first-class cabins. It collaborates with famous luxury brands like Giorgio Armani to offer its first-class passengers a true premium experience. That being said, even its economy cabins are also impressive. They're on par with other Middle Eastern airlines, like Qatar Airways and Emirates.
Q: What country does Etihad fly for?
A: Etihad is one of two flag carrier airlines in the United Arab Emirates, along with Emirates. The reason the UAE has two flag carriers is simple: they are based in two different emirates. Etihad's home base is the city of Abu Dhabi, while Emirates flies out of Dubai.
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