Are you planning a multi-city journey? Don’t just sit through long layovers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi – transform them into luxurious stopovers with free hotel stays and transit visas!
This guide unveils the secrets to enjoying a taste of these vibrant cities, courtesy of Etihad Airways and Emirates Airlines.
Free Hotel Stay and Transit Visa
To qualify for a free hotel stay, you must be a transit passenger travelling with either Emirates Airlines or Etihad Airways and have a layover at Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH).
Etihad Airways: Your Gateway to Abu Dhabi
Longer Layovers (24+ hours)
For longer layovers of more than 24 hours, you can Enjoy a complimentary two-night stay at a chic Abu Dhabi hotel by choosing Etihad’s “Abu Dhabi Stopover” service. From Aloft Abu Dhabi’s trendy vibes to the Premier Inn’s convenience, the choice is yours!
To avail of this, simply book your multi-city Etihad flight (Economy, Business, or First) with a layover in Abu Dhabi. Head to Etihad’s stopover platform and select “Free Stopover,” entering your booking details. Choose your preferred hotel from the available options and receive your voucher!
List of Hotels for Free Stay
Once you have made the booking, you can choose to stay at any one of the hotels listed below, subject to availability:
- Aloft Abu Dhabi
- Centro Al Manhal
- City Seasons Al Hamra Hotel
- Golden Tulip Abu Dhabi Downtown
- Millennium Al Rawdah Hotel
- Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Capital Centre Hotel
- Premier Inn Abu Dhabi International Airport Hotel
- Southern Sun Abu Dhabi
- Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri
Age Requirement: 21 years or older
Shorter Layovers (10-24 hours)
Don’t miss out on a taste of Abu Dhabi even on a short layover. Book the “Transit Connect” service five days before your arrival and enjoy a free stay at a hotel near the airport like Aloft Abu Dhabi or Premier Inn.
After booking your Etihad flight with a layover in Abu Dhabi, visit the dedicated webpage and enter your booking details. Check hotel availability, choose your stay, and receive a hotel voucher via email.
To benefit from this service, you must book the hotel stay five days before your arrival, with the option to choose from the following hotels:
- Premier Inn Abu Dhabi International Airport Hotel
- Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Capital Centre Hotel
- Aloft Abu Dhabi
Age Requirement: 18 years or older
Essential Information
- Transit Visa Costs: 48-hour visa: Dh37, 96-hour visa: Dh206 (non-extendable).
- Visa Documents: Valid passport (6+ months), coloured photo, onward flight booking.
- Contact Etihad: For specific terms and conditions, contact Etihad’s customer service centre based on your location (available on their website).
Layover in Dubai with Emirates – ‘Dubai Connect’
Experience Dubai’s opulence with Emirates’ “Dubai Connect” service. Depending on your flight class and stopover duration (6-26 hours for First/Business), enjoy a free hotel stay, airport transfers, and even meals!
Once you book your Emirates flight with a Dubai layover, visit their website and manage your booking. Choose “Dubai Connect” if eligible and add it to your itinerary at least 24 hours before your flight.
Age Requirement: Passengers under 18 can travel with an adult (18+).
Dubai Connect Hotels:
- The Copthorne Hotel Dubai
- Le Méridien Airport Hotel Dubai
- JW Marriott Marquis
Upon Arrival: Head to the Dubai Connect desk at Arrivals for transfers and assistance. Remember, meals and basic hotel amenities are covered, but extras like mini-bar snacks require a credit card.
Unsure about eligibility? Contact Emirates customer service (+971 600555555) for personalized guidance.
By following these steps, you can turn your layover into a comfortable and enjoyable experience, exploring the vibrant cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
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