The conflict in the Middle East has sent ripples through global travel. While most airlines have felt something, it is the Middle East based airlines that are feeling it the most.
Etihad, based in Abu Dhabi, has been hit particularly hard, with thousands of flights cancelled. As it slowly rebuilds its schedule, the airline is giving its Etihad Guest members a little boost. They are offering a faster path to the next status tier.
Members have received an email from Arik De, the airline’s chief revenue and commercial officer. In it, he writes
Your relationship with Etihad means a great deal to us, and in moments like this, it is important that we stand behind that relationship.
For this reason, we are reducing the tier qualification requirements by 25%, making it easier for you to progress to the next tier when you are ready to travel again. Your journey with Etihad Guest should continue to move forward, with greater flexibility and ease.
Reduces Requirements to Earn Etihad Status
For the next year, Etihad is making it a bit easier to climb, or hang on to, your Etihad Guest status. They’re cutting the number of Tier Miles you need by 25%. Under the terms, this offer is available to Etihad Guest members who held Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum status as of 18 March 2026.
This means two things
- You need to have been a member of Etihad Guest as at 18 March 2026. No signing up now.
- There is no reduction in the requirements for the top Emerald Tier
Etihad have published new Retain and Earn tables
Retain
Earn
For further information on the reduced tier requirements, head over to the Etihad website.
Final Words
Etihad Airways has significantly reduced its Australian presence compared to a decade ago, though it still operates direct flights to both Sydney and Melbourne.
For travellers who continue to fly Etihad from Australia, especially those heading to the Middle East or Europe once or twice a year, the reduced tier‑mile requirements make it noticeably easier to reach or retain Silver or Gold status.
It remains to be seen if the other Middle East airlines do something similar.
