Etihad Airways Joins Forces With Open Masters Games 2026 In Abu Dhabi: A Game-Changer For Global Sports Tourism!

Etihad Airways has announced a historic partnership with Open Masters Games 2026 which designates the airline as its Official Airline Partner for the first time. The event which will take place from 6 to 15 February 2026 will be held at more than twenty locations throughout central Abu Dhabi where more than thirty-thousand participants from one-hundred and forty different countries will compete. This partnership will transform Abu Dhabi into a leading worldwide destination which offers both international sports competitions and tourist attractions.

The Open Masters Games, an international sporting competition for individuals aged 30 and above, highlights sport as a lifelong pursuit, promoting inclusivity and community. The event’s emphasis on both professional and recreational athletes showcases Etihad Airways’ unwavering commitment to supporting the Abu Dhabi community, not just through connectivity but by actively contributing to a vibrant global sporting scene.

Strengthening Abu Dhabi’s Global Sporting and Tourism Identity

The strategic partnership between Etihad Airways and the Open Masters Games reflects Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a top-tier destination for both tourism and sporting events. As the UAE’s flag carrier, Etihad Airways brings its extensive global network and premium services, which perfectly complement the city’s world-renowned hospitality and luxurious tourism offerings. This collaboration will play a pivotal role in the success of the Open Masters Games, ensuring smooth and seamless travel experiences for athletes and spectators alike.

The agreement was formalised during a ceremony attended by high-ranking officials, including H.E. Aref Al Awani, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways. H.E. Aref Al Awani expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting Etihad’s expertise in logistics and hospitality for major international events. He emphasized that the collaboration would contribute to making the 2026 Games an exceptional edition, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s commitment to promoting sport as an essential part of life for people of all ages.

Dr. Nadia Bastaki of Etihad Airways remarked that the airline is honoured to be part of such a significant event. She noted that this partnership underscores Etihad’s commitment to connecting people and cultures worldwide, as athletes from diverse backgrounds come together in Abu Dhabi to celebrate their passion for sports. She also stated that the airline is eager to showcase Abu Dhabi’s remarkable hospitality to global visitors and ensure their journey to this exciting event is as seamless as possible.

Connecting the World to Abu Dhabi’s Sporting Spirit

Etihad Airways’ role as Official Airline Partner goes beyond just providing transportation. The airline is poised to play an instrumental role in enhancing the overall travel experience for the 30,000 participants and their supporters. By leveraging its growing network, Etihad will connect athletes and sports fans from around the globe, facilitating access to the Emirate’s impressive sporting venues and rich cultural heritage.

The Open Masters Games will feature 38 sporting competitions spread across ten days, with venues located throughout Abu Dhabi. As the primary air carrier for the event, Etihad Airways will not only offer premium services to ensure athletes arrive rested and ready for competition, but also showcase the airline’s commitment to enhancing the UAE’s position as a global sports hub. From seamless check-ins to in-flight experiences tailored for both athletes and their supporters, Etihad’s involvement will ensure that every detail is meticulously attended to.

The partnership’s broader impact will be felt across the tourism sector as well. As participants flock to Abu Dhabi from all over the world, the event will drive traffic to the UAE’s many hotels, cultural landmarks, and leisure attractions. Sports tourism is on the rise, with many travelers combining their passion for competition with the opportunity to explore new destinations. The Open Masters Games will certainly contribute to Abu Dhabi’s status as a key player in the global sports tourism market.

A Commitment to Community and Ambition

With over 140 nationalities expected to compete, the Open Masters Games 2026 is poised to be a truly international event that transcends borders. As the world’s leading airline for premium services and Emirati hospitality, Etihad Airways is an ideal partner to help make this event truly global. The airline’s deep-rooted commitment to community and its expertise in delivering exceptional service will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all who participate.

The partnership also underscores the value of sport as a tool for fostering connections across cultures, communities, and generations. As more than 30,000 participants gather in Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways will ensure their journey is not just a means of travel but a part of the larger experience of connecting with a global sporting community.

Elevating Abu Dhabi as a Premier Sports Destination

The collaboration between Etihad Airways and the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 marks an exciting chapter in the UAE’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a global leader in sports and tourism. This partnership will help Abu Dhabi showcase its rich culture, world-class infrastructure, and sporting prowess, while offering athletes and spectators a seamless travel experience that embodies the spirit of the UAE. As Etihad Airways continues to bring the world to Abu Dhabi, the Open Masters Games will be a key milestone in the Emirate’s journey toward becoming a top-tier sports destination.

Through this partnership, Etihad Airways reaffirms its role as a vital link between the UAE and the world, supporting not only global travel but also the UAE’s vision to promote a lifestyle of sport, health, and community. The Open Masters Games will create a permanent heritage in Abu Dhabi which will establish an atmosphere of inclusivity together with athletic excellence that will endure throughout upcoming years.

Image Credit: Etihad Airways

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