Emirates Airlines has decided to be the gift that keeps giving this summer. After striking an inter-airline agreement with Etihad, Emirates is now handing out free hotel stays to passengers across all travel classes this summer. Whether you’re travelling Economy, Premium Economy, Business or First class, a swish little hotel staycay is in the offing for you.
The offer is valid on flight bookings made between now and June 11, for travel dates until August 31. Travellers must spend a minimum of 24 hours in Dubai to avail of the offer. So folks visiting the city for a long holiday or choosing Dubai as a stopover to break up arduous long-haul flights can enjoy the free stay.
What about UAE residents?
The deal applies to travellers flying to or through Dubai but it comes with some fine print. The offer doesn’t apply to tickets sold in and on journeys originating in the UAE. So, only residents who’ve booked return flights as a one-way trip and not a round-trip could perhaps make the cut for free hotel stays.
Speaking of which, these are the hotels in store. Passengers flying first and business class can check into the trendy 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central for a free two-night stay. Along with the five-star hotel stay, first and business-class travellers also get access to Chauffeur‑drive service to and from the airport as well as airport lounge access.
Those flying premium economy and plain ‘ol economy will get a free night’s stay at the four-star Novotel World Trade Center Dubai.
How to book your free Emirates hotel stay
Once you’ve purchased your Emirates flight, drop an email to EmiratesOffer@emirates.com with your booking reference, date of arrival in Dubai, passenger names, contact phone number, and email address. Your hotel confirmation will be then be emailed to you.
Hotel rooms though are subject to availability and Emirates recommends you send in that email 96 hours prior to your departure for a shot at bagging a hotel stay. Spur-of-the-moment travel plans aren’t the best if you’re eyeing up a free staycay. If hotel rooms aren’t available, Emirates will find you hotels with similar star rating.
Hang on to your boarding passes for discounts and deals
Both your paper and electronic boarding passes will unleash a ton of deals and discounts on sightseeing, shopping and dining as Emirates has reactivated their My Emirates Pass Programme. Those flying to Dubai until September 30 can unlock 30% discounts on spa treatments at The Burj Club Spa, dining discounts at Akiba Dori and other restaurants and retail discounts of 15% at Bloomingdale’s and more. Find full list of discounts at www.emirates.com/myemiratespass.