Etihad Airways announced the launch of 'Abu Dhabi Stopover', whereby guests now have the option to add a stopover and select a complimentary hotel when e-booking flights with the carrier.

The Abu Dhabi Stopover, exclusive to Etihad Airways, invites guests flying through Abu Dhabi to turn their free stopover hotel stay into a holiday, the airline said in a statement. The deal was signed with the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) at the Arabian Travel Market. with a Memorandum of Understanding between DCT Abu Dhabi’s Director General for Tourism, Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, and Etihad’s CEO Antonoaldo Neves.

When booking flights with Etihad, guests now have the option to add a stopover and select a complimentary hotel as part of the online booking process. Guests can choose a free stay for one or two nights in a range of premier hotels across the city. Stopover packages are only available when booking direct on etihad.com.

A Memorandum of Understanding between DCT Abu Dhabi’s Director General for Tourism, Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, and Etihad’s CEO Antonoaldo Neves. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Our partners are an integral part of our mission to share the very best of Abu Dhabi with global travellers.

"Our Stopover programme with Etihad offers an exciting introduction to the emirate for curious visitors. This innovative initiative provides a snapshot of the diverse experiences available here “” from entertainment and culture to leisure and beyond “” inspiring travellers to return and immerse themselves in the complete Abu Dhabi experience.”