Muscat: The introduction of a unified tourist visa for GCC countries later this year will be a game-changer for regional tourism and Middle East airlines, a spokesman for Etihad Airways told the Observer.
“It simplifies the travel process, making it easier for tourists to explore multiple destinations within the GCC region. For airlines, this translates into increased passenger traffic. The unified visa is expected to boost demand for regional travel, enhance connectivity, and support economic growth through tourism," he said.
"It also fosters greater collaboration among GCC countries, positioning the region as a cohesive and attractive tourism destination,” he added.
The airline, he said, is committed to the Oman market, catering to both leisure and business travelers by leveraging a strong network and partnerships that offer seamless travel options.
“The collaboration with the budget airline, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, also enables us to offer competitive fares on these routes, ensuring affordability and convenience. Oman remains a vital part of our regional strategy.”
Etihad Airways said it has partnered with Air Arabia in Abu Dhabi, a low-cost carrier that complements existing services. "This partnership allows us to cater to the price-sensitive segment of the market while maintaining the high standards associated with the Etihad brand.
By leveraging Air Arabia’s expertise in the low-cost sector, we can offer competitive fares on short- and medium-haul routes without compromising on quality.
Etihad passengers are provided with enhanced facilities from its hub in Abu Dhabi, which include check-in and baggage handling systems and biometric touchpoints throughout the airport experience, apart from flagship lounges. “Cutting-edge technology has been integrated to streamline security checks and boarding processes, reducing wait times and enhancing efficiency.”
Exceprts
How are things different now from what they were before 2020?
Etihad Airways has embarked on an ambitious journey guided by our Vision 2030 plan. We have focused on enhancing operational efficiency and embracing innovation to improve our services. Our efforts have included significant investments in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft and advancing our digital transformation to provide personalised services and streamline operations. A key component of our Vision 2030 is the plan to double the size of the airline by 2030 compared to the 2023 level. Post-pandemic, we have also adapted to changing market dynamics by diversifying our route network, focusing on routes in the GCC, Europe, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia.
What has been a strategy to make the airline the preferred choice?
Etihad Airways has strategically partnered with Air Arabia to form Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, a low-cost carrier that complements our existing services. This partnership allows us to cater to the price-sensitive segment of the market while maintaining the high standards associated with the Etihad brand. By leveraging Air Arabia’s expertise in the low-cost sector, we can offer competitive fares on short- and medium-haul routes without compromising on quality.
What facilities are in store for Etihad passengers at Zayed International Airport?
The new terminal at Zayed International Airport is designed to provide Etihad passengers with a world-class travel experience. Enhanced facilities include state-of-the-art check-in and baggage handling systems, with biometric touchpoints throughout the airport experience. Etihad premium customers can enjoy our new flagship lounges.
Cutting-edge technology has been integrated to streamline security checks and boarding processes, reducing wait times and enhancing efficiency. These upgrades reflect the commitment to delivering exceptional service and convenience, making Abu Dhabi a premier global aviation hub.
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