Etihad supports Red Crescent project

Etihad Airways and the Red Crescent Society have joined together to help under-privileged UAE national women. The Al-Ghadeer project seeks to empower the women using the age-old practice of indigenous arts and crafts. As part of the program, these women undergo vocational training in making traditional Emirati products, such as coffee sets, essence sets and chocolate and date baskets, using authentic local and recycled materials. These products will be available at the Etihad Guest loyalty program Reward Shop as well as within the airline’s duty free shopping brochure. The profit from the sales will provide the women with a source of income. Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ chief commercial officer, said: “As the national airline of the UAE, Etihad Airways is proud to partner the Red Crescent on the Al-Ghadeer project that will have a positive impact on the lives of many Emirati women and at the same time aid the preservation of the UAE’s traditional handicraft practice. Etihad Airways builds its identity on the great values and traditions of the UAE and Abu Dhabi. By supporting this project, we are supporting our brand and the local culture which we take to the world.” An exhibition of the arts and crafts has already been held at the Etihad Airways headquarters in Abu Dhabi with members of the airline’s staff purchasing a items from a wide range of the ladies’ products.