
Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH), now officially Zayed International Airport, is the second busiest airport in the United Arab Emirates after Dubai International Airport, and services the UAE’s capital city. Located approximately 30-35 kilometres from Abu Dhabi’s city centre, Abu Dhabi Airport serves as the hub for Etihad Airways and its shiny new Terminal A is among the biggest airport terminals in the world, with the capacity to handle up to 45 million passengers a year. Actually, you might recognise this impressive new terminal as you come into land at Abu Dhabi Airport! Its futuristic design earned it a cameo in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi

Air India

Air India Express

Air Seychelles

British Airways

China Eastern

Egyptair

Ethiopian Airlines

Etihad Airways

Flynas

Gulf Air

Hainan Airlines

IndiGo

Qatar Airways

SriLankan Airlines

Turkish Airlines
If you’re on a flight departing from Abu Dhabi Airport, you have a few different options for check-in. These include self-service kiosks and full-service counters at the airport, as well as remote check-in options. It’s always a good idea to arrive nice and early for your flight, and to confirm check-in times directly with your airline as each may have different requirements. It’s often possible to check in for your flights online via your airline’s website or app, which can be an easy way to save time at the airport on the day of travel.
Baggage allowances vary by airline and ticket class, so it’s important to confirm what’s included with your flight booking to avoid any surprises at bag drop! For more specific information on baggage limits, such as the size, weight and number of bags included in your airfare, check with your airline or ask your Travel Expert for assistance. Baggage services are available at Abu Dhabi Airport, such as weight scales and free luggage trolleys, which you’ll find outside Terminal A and in the airport car parks.
There are a wide range of facilities available at Abu Dhabi Airport for your comfort, convenience and use before or after your flight.
Looking for the best ways to get to and from Abu Dhabi Airport? There are plenty of ground transportation options available.
There are a number of different parking options available at Abu Dhabi Airport. We’d recommend booking your parking online in advance for peace of mind and to secure the best rate.
Passengers can be picked up or dropped off at Abu Dhabi Airport either in the car park or by the Departures forecourt.
The Zayed International Airport shuttle service (the AUH Express) runs between Abu Dhabi Airport and the Ibn Battuta Bus Station in Dubai. Travellers can buy tickets both in the Arrivals Hall at Abu Dhabi Airport and at the bus station in Dubai.
All passenger flights at Abu Dhabi Airport are currently handled through Terminal A (replacing the previously used Terminals 1, 2 and 3).
You’ll find car rental companies, including Europcar, Hertz, Thrifty and AVIS, at Abu Dhabi Airport above Arrivals in Terminal A. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave.
One of the most economical ways to travel to or from Abu Dhabi Airport to the city centre is via the A1 or A2 public bus service. The buses depart from Terminal A and run frequently.
Metered luxury taxis are the quickest way to get from the airport to Abu Dhabi city centre, taking approximately 30 to 35 minutes. Luxury airport taxis are available 24/7 from the designated Pick-up zone outside the Arrivals Hall at Terminal A.
Etihad Airways Business Class Lounge
Terminal A
Open 24/7
Etihad Airways First Class Lounge
Terminal A
Open 24/7
Pearl Lounge
Terminal A
Open 24/7
Diamond Lounge
Terminal A
Open 24/7
Major airlines servicing Abu Dhabi Airport include Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Turkish Airlines and more.
As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Abu Dhabi Airport two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and at least three hours before international flights. This should give you enough time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through any necessary security screenings before your boarding time. Keep in mind that you may experience longer lines and delays during busy holiday periods, so check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times.
There are lots of transport options available from Abu Dhabi Airport to the city centre and beyond to Dubai, including the Zayed International Airport shuttle (the AUH Express), taxi services and car rental
Yes, there are a number of airport lounges at Abu Dhabi Airport, including two Etihad Airways lounges (the Business Class and First Class Lounge). Access to airport lounges may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, credit card benefits or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information on how to access the airport lounges at Abu Dhabi Airport.
There are plenty of accommodation options nearby and Abu Dhabi Airport even offers the AUHotel, which is located within the airport itself for added convenience. If you’re looking for showers or a quiet space to relax while you wait for your flight, check the opening times, facilities and whether you’re able to access any of the airline lounges at Abu Dhabi Airport.
You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Abu Dhabi booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions.
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Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Abu Dhabi Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert.
That’s an easy one! All passenger flights at Abu Dhabi Airport are currently handled through Terminal A (replacing the previously used Terminals 1, 2 and 3).
Yes, there are a number of different parking options available at Abu Dhabi Airport. Check with the airport directly for more information on booking airport parking and the current rates.
Travelling with the little ones? Baby change rooms, strollers and a dedicated children’s play area is available at Abu Dhabi Airport to make your family holiday a breeze!
Keen to do a little retail therapy at Abu Dhabi Airport? You’re in luck! There are plenty of stores available for you to browse before your flight, including well-known brands like Adidas, Hugo Boss, Samsonite and Gucci, as well as duty-free shops and dining options. Check Abu Dhabi Airport’s terminal map or website for an up-to-date list of stores and their opening information.
While last-minute sale fares to and from Abu Dhabi Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially when booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds!
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