Traveling through the UAE can be more rewarding than you think, especially if you’re transiting through Dubai or Abu Dhabi. If you find yourself with a long stopover in these cities, you might be eligible for a free hotel stay and a transit visa. This guide will walk you through the process of securing a complimentary hotel stay while transiting via Emirates Airlines or Etihad Airways.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a free hotel stay, you need to be a transit passenger flying either Emirates Airlines or Etihad Airways, with a layover at Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH). This offer is open to all passengers in first, business, and economy class, subject to certain requirements.
Layover in Abu Dhabi for Over 24 Hours
If your layover in Abu Dhabi exceeds 24 hours, you’re entitled to a free stay in a three-star hotel. To avail of this, you must book your ticket and visa through Etihad using their ‘Abu Dhabi Stopover’ service. Remember to book this service at least three days before your arrival and ensure you have a pre-arranged transit visa issued by Etihad. This service allows for a complimentary stay of up to two nights.
Steps to Book Your Free Stay
Flight Booking: Book a multi-city flight with Etihad in any class, ensuring it connects through Abu Dhabi.
Visit Etihad’s Stopover Platform: Once your booking is confirmed, go to www.etihad.com/en-ae/abu-dhabi/stopover. Scroll down and select ‘Free Stopover’.
Enter Details: Input your booking reference or ticket number along with your last name.
Hotel Selection: Click on ‘Check Now’ and choose from the available hotels. You will receive a hotel voucher upon selection.
Available Hotels
Upon booking, you can choose from the following hotels, 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
Note on Additional Charges
While the stay itself is complimentary, any extra charges incurred, such as meals and amenities, must be paid by the guest.
Age Requirement
To book this service, you must be at least 21 years old.