Etihad and Qatar Airways ease loyalty programme requirements

Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways are easing loyalty programme requirements for members as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East impacts global travel. 

 

UAE national carrier Etihad is reducing tier qualification thresholds by 25%, enabling members to progress to the next tier with fewer miles. The airline has also waived rebooking fees for flights until 31 March 2026 to offer greater flexibility.

 

In an online statement sent to members, Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad, said: “Your relationship with Etihad means a great deal to us, and in moments like this, it is important that we stand behind that relationship.”

 

Meanwhile, Qatar Airways has introduced a similar initiative, implementing temporary tier status extensions for Privilege Club Members. All eligible members will be contacted directly. 

 

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The airline’s Group CEO, Hamad Al-Khater, informed members saying: “In a period when we have not been able to fly you where you need to go, our commitment to you has not wavered.” 

 

Both carriers are gradually resuming key regional and international routes since mid-March, though schedules remain subject to periodic disruptions.

 

The UAE airspace reopened shortly after 28 February, starting with limited operations before increasing capacity. Etihad is currently operating to more than 80 destinations worldwide from its hub in Abu Dhabi.

 

In Qatar, airspace has partially reopened, with only select Qatar Airways flights operating via a designated safe corridor. Scheduling up until 15 April will see the airline operating services across 90 destinations.

 

For more information, visit etihad.com