Emirates Airline and Etihad Airways have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance their interline relationship, offering more options for travelers flying in and out of the UAE. Under the agreement, visitors can choose to arrive in one emirate and depart from the other, without incurring additional airfare charges.

This historic collaboration between the two UAE carriers aims to capitalize on opportunities to boost travel to the UAE, which is a significant pillar of the nation's economy. Tourism is projected to contribute to 5.4% of the country's total GDP, which amounts to AED 116.1 billion (USD 31.6 billion), and support over 1 million jobs by 2027.

Travelers arriving in the UAE can now take advantage of "multi-city flights," giving them the option to travel from one city on both Emirates and Etihad networks, and conveniently return to another point served by either airline. This also offers more flexibility with travel timings.

Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves sees the agreement as a "win-win proposition" for travelers. "Our interline agreement will make it more convenient for our guests to experience the best of Abu Dhabi and Dubai on one single ticket while promising to deliver an exceptional flying experience whether they fly with Etihad Airways or Emirates," Neves said.

The two airlines previously collaborated in 2018, signing an MoU to improve aviation security both inside and outside the Emirates.