Etihad Airways on final approach for 18th Arabian Gulf Cup

It is the second time the airline has sponsored the Gulf's biggest football tournament following its successful involvement as a platinum sponsor of the 2004 tournament in Qatar.

As part of Etihad's sponsorship it will present the Golden Boot Award for the top goal scorer and the airline is also offering discounted airfares for travelling fans and media attending the tournament.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways' CEO, said: "Etihad is extremely proud to be bringing the Arabian Gulf Cup to the people of Abu Dhabi and the UAE."

"The tournament will focus the eyes of the sporting world on Abu Dhabi for this festival of football, once again demonstrating the city's perfect credentials for hosting world-class events whether in sport, business or leisure."

Thousands of fans are also expected to take advantage of the airline's special fares and Etihad Holidays' deals, travelling from across the region to watch their team in action.

Currently the Abu Dhabi-based airline offers more than 100 flights per week between the UAE and the GCC countries which will offer fans maximum flexibility when following their team throughout the tournament.

The football feast kicks-off at 7:30pm on 17 January when hosts UAE take on neighbours Oman at Zayed Sports City, with the match being followed that night with Group A rivals Kuwait against Yemen.

Action in Group B starts the next day with Bahrain versus Saudi Arabia and Iraq versus Qatar. The knock-out stages take place on 27 January at the Al Jazeera Stadium, with the grand final being held on 30 January at Zayed Sports City.