Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has in just eight years established itself as the world’s leading airline. Set up by Royal (Amiri) Decree in July 2003, Etihad commenced commercial operations in November 2003 and has gone on to become the fastest growing airline in the history of commercial aviation.

From its hub at Abu Dhabi International Airport, Etihad serves 86 passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and North America, with a fleet of 63 Airbus and Boeing aircraft, and 100 aircraft on order, including 10 Airbus A380s, the world’s largest passenger aircraft.

The airline seeks to reflect the best of Arabian hospitality – cultured, considerate, warm and generous – as well as enhance the prestige of Abu Dhabi as a centre of hospitality between East and West. Etihad has received a range of awards that reflect its position as the leading premium airline brand in the world, including ‘World’s Leading Airline’ at the World Travel Awards in 2009 and 2010.

Etihad is proud to support a range of sporting and cultural events in the United Arab Emirates and worldwide. These sponsorships are consistent with Etihad’s values of hospitality, team spirit, and helping bring Abu Dhabi to the world and the world to Abu Dhabi. Etihad’s other major sponsorships include Etihad Stadium, Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Manchester City Football Club, Sport Australia Hall of Fame, GAA Hurling All-Ireland Senior Championship, Harlequins Rugby Football Club and V8 Supercars Australia.