Abu Dhabi-based esports organisation Team Nigma has announced a long-term partnership with international airline Etihad Airways.
The partnership signifies Etihad Airways’ first foray into esports.
Update: This piece has been edited to reflect the fact that Etihad Airways was not the first airline to partner with an esports organisation.
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Activations surrounding the agreement have yet to be revealed, however, the deal will include air travel benefits for the organisation’s team and support staff.
Moreover, Team Nigma’s announcement image seems to tease that Etihad Airways’ logo will be featured on future team Jerseys.
Mohamed Morad, Co-Founder of Team Nigma, added: “As a kid, I dreamt of becoming a pilot.
“When competing on the highest level, our team and staff constantly need to travel around the world to face the top Dota 2 teams and the immense resources and expertise Etihad Airways will provide us, are going to help our players and staff reach new levels.”
Team Nigma’s Etihad Airways partnership follows on from the organisation announcing that it will relocate to Abu Dhabi. The relocation was made due to its new partnership with AD Gaming, a new initiative created by Twofour54 to bring organisations together and build a sustainable esports ecosystem in Abu Dhabi.
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Amina Taher, Vice President Brand, Marketing and Sponsorships at Etihad Airways, added: “The gaming industry is rapidly gaining prominence, and in line with Abu Dhabi’s investment in the industry, Etihad is proud to lead the way.
“We see the value in sports-based sponsorships which unite and engage with communities, and we look forward to what the future holds with Team Nigma.”
Team Nigma joins the likes of Manchester City, Formula 1’s Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and Melbourne City football club as partners of the airline.
Esports Insider says: This is a monumental deal for Team Nigma, which also signals Etihad Airways’ first foray into esports. The partnership aligns with the organisation’s decision to establish itself in Abu Dhabi, despite primarily competing in Europe, with the ultimate goal being to strengthen the UAE’s esports sector.