(5 August 2014)
Marriott International's award-winning loyalty program, Marriott Rewards, just got better. By joining forces with Etihad Airways ' loyalty program, Etihad Guest, customers can now redeem their Marriott Rewards Points for Etihad Guest Miles, as well as choosing to earn Etihad Guest Miles for all stays at Marriott properties worldwide.
The partnership is a great way for travelers to enjoy immediate awards and instant gratification when booking a hotel stay or flight resulting in a free vacation. In addition, the collaboration enables customers to redeem their points against group travel, making stays with friends, family or colleagues that bit easier and more cost effective.
Commenting on the partnership Neal Jones, Chief Sales and Marketing Office, Marriott International Middle East and Africa said: "Marriott Rewards and Etihad Guest are committed to opening up travel experiences and this partnership is testament to that promise. Etihad Airways is an airline renowned for its Arabian hospitality; one that is cultured, considerate, warm and generous - a brand that shares Marriott International's dedication to superior hospitality. In addition, our rewards program is designed to award customers for their loyalty by providing them with access to free vacations no matter where they choose to travel."
"This new partnership is great for Marriott guests everywhere - giving them the flexibility to earn Etihad Guest miles from their stays and subsequently spend these miles on flights with Etihad Airways or one of the many other Etihad Guest airline partners, or spend them on the Etihad Guest RewardShop for one of thousands of products" said Barry Green, Managing Director, Etihad Guest. "They can also choose to transfer their miles to cash, to spend at any one of 30 million outlets worldwide, using the Etihad Guest exclusive feature - PointsPay".
Both Marriott International and Etihad Airways have a vast global footprint helping ensure individuals and families can travel with ease. With more than 4,000 properties, and more than 690,000 rooms in 78 countries and territories, Marriott promises a home-away from home where you go. In addition, regional travelers can benefit from the hoteliers extensive Middle East and Africa reach with 161 properties across 18 countries (MEA) offering a total of 23,701 rooms spanning 8 brands; JW Marriott, Marriott Hotels, Renaissance Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, Residence Inn by Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott, Marriott Executive Apartments and Protea Hotels.
Coupled with Etihad Airways ' network of passenger destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas, travelers now have greater access to a number of destinations both locally and globally.
Effective immediately, Marriott Rewards members who designate Etihad Guest as their earning preference will receive:
Mileage Accrual Structure - Hotel Stays
Two (2) Etihad Guest Miles per $1 US spent on qualifying hotel charges.