Marriott Bonvoy, a comprehensive, free-to-join travel loyalty programme for Marriott International and Ethiopian Airlines, has launched a new partnership, allowing members of both loyalty programmes to earn and redeem points and miles across hotel stays and flights. The collaboration connects the Star Alliance members’ network of over 145 destinations with Marriott’s global portfolio of more than 30 brands.
With this new agreement, members of Marriott Bonvoy and ShebaMiles can now transfer and exchange currencies. ShebaMiles can be converted to Marriott Bonvoy points in a 2:1 ratio. On the other hand, Marriott Bonvoy points can be converted to ShebaMiles in a 3:1 ratio. Furthermore, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn 5,000 ShebaMiles for every 60,000 points that are redeemed in one transaction. Also, members of Marriott Bonvoy can now choose to earn up to two miles for every dollar spent on qualifying stays at Marriott properties.
Andrew Watson, Chief Commercial Officer – Europe, Middle East and Africa at Marriott International, said, “Through our partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, Marriott Bonvoy members will have the freedom to enjoy the benefits of loyalty in ways that are most meaningful to them – whether earning miles during their stays or using points to get the miles they need for flights.”
Rahel Assefa, Ethiopian Airlines Group Vice President of Marketing, remarked during the occasion, “Through this new partnership, our ShebaMiles members will have greater opportunities to earn and redeem their miles through access to Marriott Bonvoy’s global network of hotels across multiple touchpoints and destinations in Africa and around the world.”
The airline, which operates hubs across the continent and serves major global hubs including London, Paris, and Washington DC, provides ShebaMiles members with access to 25 Star Alliance partner airlines. To access the reciprocal benefits, travellers must be enrolled in both programmes. However, no formal account linking is required for this function.
Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa, signed lease agreements with AerCap Holdings for two Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters. The aircraft, also known as “The Big Twin,” will be the first of its type to operate in Africa, with deliveries scheduled for Q2 2028.