Etihad Airways and the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi will provide complimentary medical travel insurance to all international visitors flying to or through the emirate on Etihad-operated flights, the two parties announced on June 12.
The scheme, valid from July through December 2026, positions Abu Dhabi alongside a growing number of Gulf states using travel perks to draw visitors as regional carriers compete for transit traffic against larger rivals in Dubai and Doha. Cover is automatic, requiring no application, and extends for up to 15 days in the UAE for eligible travellers.
The insurance is underwritten and administered by The National Insurance Company – Daman, part of state-backed healthcare group PureHealth. Any guest flying to Abu Dhabi on an Etihad service, with a point of origin and point of sale outside the UAE, qualifies. Travellers using the carrier’s Stopover Programme are also covered for the duration of their stay.
Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said the move responded to rising global interest in the destination. “This initiative ensures we meet that demand with an exceptional, end-to-end visitor experience. Our partnership with Etihad will set a new benchmark for destination standards and ensure our guests feel welcomed, valued, and cared for from the moment they book,” he said.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said the carrier aimed to make travel to the emirate straightforward. “Giving comprehensive medical insurance with every eligible Etihad ticket means our guests can focus entirely on experiencing the extraordinary Emirati hospitality Abu Dhabi has to offer,” he said.
Khaled Ateeq Aldhaheri, Chief Executive Officer of The National Insurance Company – Daman, said the insurer was building on more than 20 years as a healthcare partner in Abu Dhabi. “This initiative adds meaningful value to the visitor experience by integrating reliable medical insurance directly into the travel journey,” he said. Etihad Airways