Etihad launches new travel services company

Etihad Airways on Wednesday said it was launching a new travel company to expand its services to business and leisure travellers.

Hala Abu Dhabi will be based in Abu Dhabi but will offer travel products, services and activities throughout all seven Emirates of the UAE, the airline said in a statement.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways chief commercial officer, said: “Through Hala Abu Dhabi, we will offer a range of unique ground services and travel solutions to visitors to the UAE, further supporting Abu Dhabi's goal of becoming one of the world's most attractive business and leisure destinations.”

The range of travel products offered under the Hala Abu Dhabi brand will include tours and desert safaris, event management, bespoke experience packages and VIP services, a full range of accommodation and business conference and meeting venue options.

More than 1.5 million hotel guests visited Abu Dhabi in 2009, many of whom travelled to the city to visit specific tourist attractions. Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) has targeted 1.65 million hotel guests for 2010.

Abu Dhabi is looking to develop a number of visitor attractions including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the eco-friendly Saadiyat Beach Golf Course, designed by golfing legend Gary Player.