Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is offering special deals to six cities across South Africa, offering customers a number of options including an opportunity to head down to catch the British and Irish Lions tour.

The promotion includes return economy flights from Abu Dhabi to Johannesburg from Dh1,490 ($406); Durban from Dh1,800 ($490); Port Elizabeth from Dh2,200 ($599); Cape Town from Dh2,200; East London from Dh2,200 and Bloemfontein from Dh2,200 (all fares exclude taxes and surcharges).

For those customers looking to soak up the full South African experience, a ‘golden triangle’ deal is on offer. This trip includes return flights from Abu Dhabi to Johannesburg and also takes in domestic flights to Durban and Cape Town, all from Dh2,200.

“The special South Africa promotion offers travellers the opportunity to see one of the most awesome countries in the world for a fantastic price,” said Adrian Parkes, Etihad Airways’ vice president sales.

“Rugby fans can also get a great last minute flight down to South Africa to soak up the action and atmosphere on this historic Lions tour.

“The South African community in the UAE and across the Middle East continues to grow and we are anticipating a great deal of demand for these great prices during the next three months.”

Etihad began flying to Johannesburg in December 2005 and the route has proved immensely popular with business and leisure air travellers since its launch. The three flights a week service increased to daily in August 2007.

The sales period for the promotion finishes on June 8, and flights run until September 30, said a report. – TradeArabia News Service