Etihad Airways Partners with Major Airlines to Boost UAE, UK, Germany & India Travel in 2026

Etihad Airways has joined an influential group of global carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Lufthansa, Air India and Singapore Airlines in helping fuel a growing travel surge between the UAE, the UK, Germany and India. This expansion is driven by rising international travel demand and a landmark global partnership with McLaren Racing that elevates travel into a year-round tourism driver.

McLaren Racing Alliance Drives Tourism Beyond F1 Weekends

Etihad’s strategic alliance with McLaren Racing announced as an official partnership for the 2026 season has taken its collaboration beyond traditional event sponsorship. The partnership features Etihad branding across the McLaren Formula 1 and endurance racing platforms and even extends to a bespoke McLaren-branded Boeing 787 livery. This global exposure amplifies destination visibility across Europe, Asia and beyond, positioning the UAE as a key aviation and tourism hub.

The integration of motorsport and aviation is designed to convert passionate race fans into international travellers, encouraging longer stays in destinations like Abu Dhabi and on Yas Island known for its race venues, entertainment precincts and premium hotel offerings.

Strong Connectivity and Expanded Flight Options

In addition to the McLaren collaboration, the continued network growth by Gulf and global carriers is enhancing connectivity for travellers from key source markets:

• Direct flights link major cities such as London, Frankfurt, Munich, Mumbai, Delhi, Singapore and more with the UAE.
• Increased aircraft capacity results in competitive fares outside peak periods.
• Flexible routing and stopover programs support multi-city and extended itineraries.

For travellers from India, the UK and Germany among the world’s fastest growing outbound markets the expanded flight options make it easier to combine high-energy experiences like Formula 1 with leisure travel, beaches, cultural exploration and desert tours.

Tourism Growth Backed by Strong Passenger Demand

Etihad’s performance mirrors broader trends in the aviation industry, with passenger numbers and airline profitability on the rise. The airline recently reported a historic year for 2025, carrying over 22 million passengers and posting substantial profit growth, reflecting sustained global demand and network expansion.

This sustained growth not only supports airline expansion plans but also reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a major destination in its own right, encouraging tourism spend, longer stays and repeat visits.

Formula 1 as a Tourism Catalyst

What makes 2026 particularly noteworthy is the role of Formula 1 as a tourism multiplier. Events like the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix have repeatedly drawn high proportions of international visitors, generating significant hotel demand and local economic impact. Tourism authorities and hospitality partners are now leveraging this momentum year-round thanks to the McLaren-Etihad partnership and broader airline support.

For travellers, this translates to a wider range of choices whether planning an adrenaline-infused race weekend or incorporating stopover experiences that showcase culture, architecture, theme parks and regional landscapes.

What This Means for Global Travel in 2026

With Etihad joining forces with some of the world’s largest carriers, 2026 is shaping up to be a transformative year for global tourism where elite sports, airline network growth and premium hospitality converge to reshape how travellers explore the UAE and beyond. Competitive connectivity, enhanced flight schedules, strategic partnerships and immersive destination experiences are collectively expanding the global travel horizon.