Etihad scoops two major UAE Web awards

The Abu Dhabi-based airline won two UAE Web Awards at a gala presentation in Dubai on Saturday night, which included the Golden Award in the 'Travel and Tourism' category and the 'Strategy Web' award.

Etihad re-launched its website in late August 2006 at the same time as unveiling its ground-breaking loyalty programme Etihad Guest, which offers users immediate online rewards and recognition.

"To receive industry recognition so quickly after re-launching the website illustrates how impressive, dynamic and user-friendly it is. Etihad has responded to increasing demand for online services by installing state-of the-art technology that ensures our Guests receive an efficient, seamless and rewarding online experience,"

said Peter Baumgartner, Head of Marketing, Etihad Airways.

"It has been designed to offer our Guests the most convenient access to Etihad's online services, which fully support a seamless planning of the journey, including an innovative approach to integrate the commercial and reward flight booking process and claiming rewards from the Etihad Guest Rewards Shop."

The judges singled out several of the iconic online features located within the Etihad Guest programme, such as the unique Miles+Cash payment facility.

The UAE Web Awards is an annual competition which recognises the highest standards of excellence in website design and development and honours individuals and companies for their web strategy and accomplishments.

Websites were judged on concept and creativity, technical format, ease of use and navigation, content and structure, visual design and aesthetics and finally, interactivity.

The UAE Web Award winners will go forward to compete in the prestigious Pan Arab Web Awards, considered one of the top awards in the industry, which will be announced in April 2007.

"A company's website is often the first point-of-call for new and established customers, which is why Etihad has ensured that our e-services are the most advanced available," said Tehmton Cooper, eCommerce Manager, Etihad Airways.

"Our Guests across the world can obtain a wealth of information about the airline and our services at the touch of a button, ensuring they do not have to waste valuable time when organising their travel with us. As Etihad continues to grow, so too will our website. We will continue to innovate and implement new features and functionalities that will further enhance the Guest experience."