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Etihad Airways has been announced as the official airline partner for the 2026 Masters Games, set to take place in Abu Dhabi from February 6 to 15 across more than 20 sporting venues throughout the emirate. The partnership between the UAE national carrier and the International Masters Games Association strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination for major international sporting events while supporting the city’s vibrant sports community.
According to officials, the official signing ceremony took place between His Excellency Aref Al Awani, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways. The agreement establishes Etihad Airways as the official airline partner for the first edition of the Masters Games to be held in Abu Dhabi, which is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dhiyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Etihad Airways Partnership Supports Abu Dhabi Tourism Growth
The strategic collaboration leverages Etihad Airways’ extensive global network and award-winning services to enhance Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a premier sports and tourism destination. As the official airline partner, the carrier will play a central role in welcoming thousands of international visitors participating in the open Masters Games event. The partnership demonstrates the airline’s commitment to promoting Abu Dhabi as a world-class entertainment and tourism hub.
His Excellency Aref Al Awani emphasized the significance of partnering with an airline that possesses international heritage and extensive experience in logistics and hospitality for global events. The collaboration reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision to make sports a permanent lifestyle that embraces all segments of society, according to the sports council official. This alignment between the organizing committee and Etihad Airways aims to ensure the success of this exceptional international sporting event.
Global Connectivity for International Athletes
Dr. Nadia Bastaki stated that Etihad Airways is honored to sign the official partnership agreement for the Masters Games in Abu Dhabi. The collaboration reflects the airline’s steadfast commitment to strengthening connections between people, cultures, and ideas by hosting participants and supporters from across the UAE and around the world. Additionally, the partnership enables the carrier to showcase Emirati hospitality while supporting athletes at all stages of their lives.
The event is expected to attract more than 30,000 participants from within the UAE and internationally, representing over 140 nationalities. These athletes will compete in 38 sporting competitions over 10 days at more than 20 sports venues across the emirate. The Masters Games welcomes athletes and community members aged 30 years and above, celebrating sport as a lifestyle that brings together different ages, cultures, and communities.
Facilitating Seamless Travel Experience
As the UAE national carrier, Etihad Airways will facilitate travel for both athletes and spectators by providing a seamless travel experience with world-class hospitality. The airline’s direct global connections will enable visitors to discover Abu Dhabi’s rich culture, sporting facilities, and distinguished Emirati heritage. Meanwhile, the partnership underscores a shared commitment to bringing people together through sports and attracting the world to Abu Dhabi.
The collaboration between Etihad Airways and the Masters Games organizing committee represents a significant investment in Abu Dhabi’s sports infrastructure and international profile. However, the partnership extends beyond logistics to encompass broader objectives of community engagement and cultural exchange. In contrast to traditional sporting events, the Masters Games emphasizes inclusivity by welcoming participants across a wide age range and diverse backgrounds.
Authorities have indicated that preparations are underway to ensure smooth operations across all 20-plus sporting venues during the February event. The organizing committee continues to finalize logistical arrangements as the opening ceremony approaches, though specific operational details have not yet been confirmed publicly.
