The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Etihad Airways have introduced the new Abu Dhabi Pass at ITB Berlin, the world’s largest tourism trade fair. This initiative aims to enhance the visitor experience by offering a seamless, fully digital access pass to the emirate’s attractions.
A Digital Gateway to Abu Dhabi
The Abu Dhabi Pass eliminates the need for additional app downloads, making access easier than ever. Etihad passengers will receive an email with a link to the dedicated pass website, enabling them to activate their benefits at no extra cost.
Exclusive Perks for Visitors
The pass offers a range of complimentary benefits, including:
- A tourist SIM card with 10GB of data for seamless connectivity.
- Unlimited access to public buses across the city.
- 24-hour unlimited rides on the hop-on-hop-off tourist bus, covering key attractions.
Enhancing Abu Dhabi’s Global Appeal
Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, highlighted the significance of the initiative:
“The launch of the Abu Dhabi Pass underscores our commitment to enriching the visitor experience. By providing seamless access to the emirate’s diverse attractions, we aim to position Abu Dhabi as a leading global travel destination.”
Aysha Al Kaabi, Vice President of Commercial Enablement & Engagement at Etihad Airways, emphasized the pass’s value for travelers:
“Through our collaboration with DCT Abu Dhabi, we are simplifying travel by integrating transport, connectivity, and exclusive discounts into a single digital pass. This makes exploring Abu Dhabi’s cultural, leisure, and entertainment attractions more accessible and enjoyable.”
Expanding Tourism Through Smart Partnerships
Building on the success of Etihad’s stopover program—which saw international visitor numbers rise from 12,000 in 2023 to 85,000 in 2024—the airline expects to welcome over 130,000 stopover guests in 2025, marking a 50% year-on-year increase. Travelers booking through etihad.com can also take advantage of a complimentary hotel stay for up to two nights, turning their layover into an extended getaway.
Exclusive Discounts & Offers
Abu Dhabi Pass holders enjoy 15% discounts at renowned cultural landmarks such as Qasr Al Watan and Louvre Abu Dhabi. They also receive special rates at Yas Island’s top attractions, including:
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
- Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi
- SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
- Yas Waterworld
Additionally, visitors can access discounts at over 200 restaurants and enjoy savings on desert safaris, guided city tours, and other premium experiences.
A Key Initiative Under Tourism Strategy 2030
The Abu Dhabi Pass aligns with the emirate’s Tourism Strategy 2030, designed to attract 39.3 million visitors, generate 178,000 new jobs, and contribute AED 90 billion to the local economy. This initiative complements major infrastructure developments, including the new Terminal A at Zayed International Airport and an expanding cultural and entertainment calendar.
Experience More with the Abu Dhabi Pass
With a wealth of benefits at their fingertips, visitors can make the most of their time in Abu Dhabi while enjoying incredible value.
Learn more and activate your pass at www.theabudhabipass.com.
