DUBAI—Three major travel announcements this week highlight how airlines and travel companies are expanding options for UAE-based travelers through stronger regional connectivity, upgraded onboard experiences, and simplified holiday planning.
Etihad Airways has signed a memorandum of understanding with Fastjet Zimbabwe to establish an interline partnership, codeshare agreement and future frequent flyer collaboration, while Emirates announced a second daily Airbus A350 service to Colombo. Meanwhile, dnata Travel has relaunched its “Secret Stays” campaign, offering UAE residents surprise luxury holidays in the Maldives.
The Etihad-Fastjet Zimbabwe partnership, signed in Harare on July 7, will enable passengers to book journeys on a single ticket connecting Etihad’s international network with Fastjet’s destinations across Zimbabwe, including Harare, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls, as well as Johannesburg, South Africa. Sales under the agreement begin on Aug. 24.
The agreement also complements Etihad’s planned nonstop Abu Dhabi-Harare service, scheduled to begin on March 24, 2027, extending easier access to some of Zimbabwe’s most popular tourism destinations. Fastjet customers will gain access to Etihad’s global network, while Fastjet is expected to become the 32nd airline partner in the Etihad Guest loyalty program.
Etihad Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer Arik De said the partnership strengthens the airline’s African growth strategy by expanding travel opportunities through regional cooperation.
Dubai-Colombo
Emirates also announced further investment in South Asia by introducing a second daily Airbus A350 service between Dubai and Colombo beginning Aug. 8. The new aircraft will replace a Boeing 777 on flight EK648/649, doubling the number of daily flights offering the airline’s Premium Economy cabin on the route.
The A350 features Emirates’ newest cabin design with wider aisles, quieter interiors, enhanced entertainment systems and improved Wi-Fi connectivity. Premium Economy passengers benefit from larger seats, priority boarding, dedicated check-in at Dubai International Airport and increased baggage allowances.
Emirates currently operates four daily services to Colombo, including three nonstop flights and one via Male, connecting Sri Lanka with nearly 140 destinations worldwide through Dubai.
Beyond airline expansion, travel preferences among UAE residents are also evolving.
Maldives Summer
According to dnata Travel, the Maldives remains the most popular overseas destination this summer, accounting for roughly one-fifth of international hotel bookings. The destination also represents more than half of all-inclusive holiday bookings made through the company this year.
To capitalize on that demand, dnata Travel has relaunched its “Secret Stays Maldives” campaign, allowing travelers to reserve a luxury holiday without learning the resort’s identity until after confirming the booking.
Available through July 31 for travel until Sept. 30, the package starts at AED 2,590 per adult and includes three nights in a Beach Villa on a full-board basis, speedboat transfers, a floating breakfast, island host service and several complimentary resort benefits.
Meerah Ketait, head of retail and leisure UAE at dnata Travel, said the concept addresses “decision fatigue” by allowing travelers to enjoy expert-selected resorts while adding an element of surprise.
Together, the three announcements reflect growing competition among airlines and travel companies to attract UAE travelers with expanded connectivity, upgraded premium experiences and more convenient holiday options as international travel demand continues to strengthen.
