Al Ain joins Abu Dhabi’s free stopover program for travelers
Abu Dhabi’s stopover program has now been extended to Al Ain, allowing international travelers to enjoy a free one- or two-night stay in the emirate’s heritage-rich city. The announcement came at the Arabian Travel Market and follows the initiative’s strong uptake since its 2024 launch, with over 310,000 passengers using it to prolong their visits. In the first eight months of 2026 alone, approximately 60,000 visitors were welcomed under the scheme.
Passengers transiting through Zayed International Airport (AUH) on Etihad Airways flights can now select from hotels in Al Ain, including the Four Points by Sheraton Al Ain, Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort Al Ain, Al Ain Rotana, and Danat Al Ain Resort. Complimentary shuttle services connect the airport to these accommodations. The inclusion of Al Ain coincides with its designation as the Capital of Arab Tourism for 2026, reinforcing its status as a cultural and natural alternative to Abu Dhabi’s coastal destinations.
The program’s expansion reflects broader travel trends, with Europe, particularly the UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain, remaining the primary market, alongside travelers from the Americas and India. Many stopover guests later return for longer independent trips, indicating the initiative encourages extended tourism beyond transit stays. Guests booking the stopover package receive The Abu Dhabi Stopover Pass, a digital pass offering up to 15% savings on key attractions, including Qasr Al Watan, The National Aquarium, and Ferrari World Yas Island.
