Abu Dhabi, UAE, 27 June 2016: Etihad Airways and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) have signed a landmark agreement that sees the airline become the Official Airline Partner of ADGM. The agreement harnesses the roles of both entities as ambassadors of Abu Dhabi and key players in delivering on Abu Dhabi’s vision as a world-leading business, tourism, and cultural destination.

The agreement was signed in the presence of His Excellency Ahmed Al Sayegh, Chairman of ADGM, by the Chief Executive Officer of ADGM’s Registration Authority, Dhaher M Bin Dhaher Almheiri, and Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, Peter Baumgartner.

The partnership establishes in-depth cooperation in commercial development and destination marketing that will drive business for both organisations, as well as providing ADGM members with privileged access to Etihad Airways and its partner airlines, including unique benefits across the combined network.

Peter Baumgartner, said: “It’s an honour to be the official airline partner of Abu Dhabi Global Market, a key pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision 2030. We are proud to be associated with an organisation that is a major catalyst for the growth of the financial services sector and international commerce in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE.

“With our global network, ADGM’s members can access the financial centres of the world directly from Abu Dhabi – enjoying world class travel experiences and our renowned hospitality. Our travel companies, Hala Travel Management (HTM) and Hala Abu Dhabi will also be key players in the partnership, providing professional travel management services to ADGM’s growing business community as well as promoting the Emirate and all it has to offer. Our partnership with ADGM will help to achieve even greater success for Abu Dhabi as an international financial centre, business hub and tourism destination.”

Dhaher M Bin Dhaher Almheiri, said: “At ADGM, we strive to work closely with all stakeholders to provide our member institutions with best-in-class service. Etihad Airways, our national airline, complements these efforts with their offerings and service excellence. This strategic global partnership attests to how local entities can leverage each other’s natural synergies to support Abu Dhabi’s broader vision and commitment for the economy.

He added: “As an international financial centre, ADGM provides a dynamic business and entertainment destination that includes world class infrastructure, lifestyle and residential facilities in a business friendly and vibrant environment. With Etihad Airways as our strategic partner, ADGM members and businesses on Al Maryah Island can enjoy the advantages of international connectivity with direct access into Abu Dhabi and from Abu Dhabi to the region.”