Guide to Abu Dhabi International Airport

Zayed International Airport, also called Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), is the main airport serving the UAE’s capital. Located approximately 30 kilometres from the city, it is the second-busiest airport in the country after Dubai.

The Abu Dhabi Airport is a hub for over 40 international airlines, including Etihad Airways, Air Arabia and Wiz Air Abu Dhabi. Also, it serves more than 20 million passengers annually. Here are all the details about the Zayed International Airport.

• Abu Dhabi International Airport AUH – Location
• Terminals at the Abu Dhabi Airport
• Lounges and Other Services at Abu Dhabi International Airport AUH
• General Facilities
• Money Services
• Parking and Transport
• Nearby Attractions
• FAQs

Location

Abu Dhabi International Airport is strategically located approximately 30 kilometres east of the city centre. It is well-connected via major highways, including E10, E11 (Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road) and E12. 

It provides easy access to nearby attractions like Yas Island, which is about 16 minutes drive away. 

Its prime position along the main highway (E10) ensures quick access to the city and neighbouring Emirates like Dubai. This makes it a central hub for business and leisure travellers.

Terminals at the Abu Dhabi Airport

The airport has two main terminals:

• Terminal A: The primary terminal for all airlines.
• Terminal 3: Dedicated to flights to the United States, with check-in at Terminal A.

Both terminals have relaxation areas, currency exchange, baby changing facilities, family services and prayer rooms. There are showers, medical services, accessible toilets and free WiFi for passengers as well.

Terminal A has around 163 shops and many food outlets, along with VIP lounges, kids’ play areas and health spas. The terminal also offers an on-site hotel for those needing a place to rest.

Lounges at Abu Dhabi International Airport AUH

Let’s take a look at the main lounges at Zayed International Aiport:

Diamond Lounge

Experience luxury like never before at Zayed International Airport’s Diamond Lounge. This lounge is located at Terminal A and is open 24/7.

Designed for privacy and exclusivity, the Diamond Lounge provides top-notch services and amenities for a smooth and exclusive travel experience. Your time at Zayed International Airport will be unforgettable, as the Diamond Lounge features Emirati hospitality with its top-tier services.

Pearl Lounge

Also in Terminal A, the Pearl Lounge offers complimentary food, beverages and WiFi. Passengers can enjoy a peaceful environment before their flights in this premium lounge.

Amenities at the Pearl Lounge include:

• Indoor and outdoor bars
• Two dining areas and lounge bays
• Oasis-inspired terrace lounge
• Large family areas
• Meeting rooms and flexible private rooms that can be separated into two smaller or one large room
• Shower facilities, accessible and inclusive- facilities, nursing rooms, prayer rooms and a smoking room

Salam Meet & Assist 

Open 24/7, the Salam Meet and Greet Lounge offers services to elevate your travel experience, offering fast-track assistance through check-in, immigration and security. The service is available for arrivals, departures and transits, providing a stress-free journey.

Phone Number

+971 50 28 81 347

Location

Departure Gates, in front of Door 5

Etihad Airways First Class Lounge

The Etihad Airways First Class Lounge offers a luxurious, relaxing space for guests before their flight. It is exclusive to those flying in The Residence, First Class or eligible VIP guests.

In this lounge:

• Visitors can access exclusive dining rooms to enjoy international cuisine and drinks in a luxury setting.
• There’s also a Parlour that serves delicious chocolates, pastries, Arabian treats and afternoon tea.
• The Oasis area provides comfortable seating and privacy for relaxation before your flight.

How to access Etihad’s lounges

First Class and most Business Class passengers can access the lounges for free. Etihad Guest members with higher tiers may also gain free entry, whereas, economy passengers can buy a lounge pass, subject to availability.

Etihad Airways Business Class Lounge

The following facilities are available at the Etihad Airways Business Class Lounge:

• Liwan Global Dining: Self-service international buffet in a stylish Emirati setting.
• East & West Study: Quiet area with runway views for relaxation.
• Relaxation Rooms: Private spaces with day beds for resting with shower rooms.
• Family Room: Games, toys and books to entertain children.
• Games Room: Foosball, air hockey and digital gaming options.
• Roof Lounge: Signature bar, multiple dining options and spacious seating.

How to Access

The lounge is free for First Class, most Business Class passengers and eligible Etihad Guest members. Economy passengers can buy a lounge pass if available.

Etihad US Premium Lounge

This lounge is available for First and Business Class guests flying from Zayed International Airport to the United States. After passing US Immigration and Customs, enjoy comfortable seating and light refreshments while waiting for your flight.

Opening Hours

10.30 am – 11:30 pm (Daily)

Other Services

• Xpress Spa
• Planet
• Travelex
• Salam Fast Track Services
• Morafiq Remote Check-in
• Al Sada Transactions and Follow-up Centre

Facilities at the Abu Dhabi International Airport

You can find the following facilities at the Abu Dhabi Airport:

Shopping

The airport features a wide variety of shopping outlets, from high-end brands like Bvlgari and Hermes to essentials like Boots Pharmacy and WHSmith. You’ll find everything from luxury items to travel necessities. 

Fashion and Accessories

• Salvatore Ferragamo
• Bottega Veneta
• Fendi
• Hermes Paris
• Michael Kors
• Ralph Lauren
• Victoria’s Secret
• Balenciaga
• Bally
• Burberry
• Coach
• Gucci
• Claire’s

Perfumes and Fragrances

• Scent
• Bvlgari
• Salvatore Ferragamo

Cosmetics/Pharmacies

• Bath & Body Works
• Boots Pharmacy

Electronics and Mobile Services

• Virgin Mobile
• dU
• Etisalat
• Capi (Electronics and gadgets)

Luxury Goods and Lifestyle

• Le Club
• Muji
• WHSmith
• Le Gourmet

Services:

• Airportray (Luggage services)
• Bag Wrap

Dining

From fast food to fine dining, there are numerous dining options, including Burger King, Jones the Grocer and Puro Gusto. Other popular options include:

Coffee Shops

• Arabica
• Brioche Dorée
• Butler’s Chocolate Cafe
• Cafe Flor
• Costa
• Puro Gusto
• SO! Coffee
• Starbucks
• The Daily
• The Majlis
• Vit

Restaurants

• Jones The Grocer
• Levito Pizza
• McDonald’s
• Meat District
• Pana
• Patamar Indo- Asian Kitchen
• Pier D Sports Bar
• Shawa
• Texas Chicken
• TGIF Fridays
• Todd English Pub & Market

Cafeteria

• Krispy Kreme
• Urban Food Market

Smoking Rooms

The entire airport is non-smoking, but enclosed smoking rooms are available in each pier’s centre. These rooms maintain excellent air quality for smokers.

Prayer Rooms

There are well-indicated prayer rooms throughout the terminal, separate for men and women. These rooms have five daily prayer time information screens and can accommodate people of determination as well.

Trolleys

For departures, trolleys are available outside Terminal A and in the car parks, with porters in the Departures area for assistance. For arrivals, trolleys and porters can be found at baggage claim and trolley use is free of charge.

Baby Strollers and Changing Rooms

The airport provides a baby stroller and clean changing rooms to complete your airport obligations worry-free with your little one. 

Free WiFi

Enjoy complimentary, unlimited WiFi at Zayed International Airport. Here’s how to connect:

• Search for available wireless networks on your device.
• Select the network named ‘Zayed Intl Airport Free WiFi’.
• When the welcome box appears, click ‘CONNECT’.
• You will be redirected to the airport’s website and full internet access will be granted.

Money Services

There are ATMs from local and international banks throughout the airport for cash withdrawals, deposits and transfers. You can also find the branches of a few local banks inside.

Moreover, many currency exchanges are located inside the airport for easy money conversions.

Parking and Transport

At Abu Dhabi Airport, there are multiple parking options available. You can choose between the short-stay car park or the pickup area for parking. Payments can be made at car park machines, with convenient contactless options.

Terminal A – Pre-booking Parking Rates

AED 50 per day for each additional day from Day 15 to a maximum of 30 days.

Terminal A – Standard Parking Rates

Transport

Here’s how you can reach anywhere in the city from the airport:

Bus Route to the City Terminal

Take the A1 bus to the City Air Terminal in 45 minutes, with departures every 30 minutes.

Bus Routes to the Airport

• Al Zahiyah – A1
• Khalifa Street – A2
• MBZ City Bus Station – A10
• Cargo Terminal – A15
• Al Shahama Bus Station – A40
• Khalifa City – K4
• Al Zahiyah – N2

By Taxi

Grab an Abu Dhabi Airport taxi from the ranks for a ride anywhere in the city. If you arrive at Terminal A, you will find it at the signposted taxi pickup area at the lower curbside outside Arrivals Hall.

For a more hassle-free experience, you can pre-book private transfers with private companies.

By Car

Drive to Abu Dhabi city centre in just 25 minutes.

Nearby Attractions

Abu Dhabi International Airport is close to the popular attractions and landmarks, such as: 

• Al Ghazal Golf Club: 3 minutes drive away 
• Al Falah Park: 17 minutes drive away 
• Al Raha Creek: 19 minutes drive away 
• Dalma Mall: 19 minutes drive away 
• Bin Safwan Beach: 25 minutes drive away 

FAQs

That was all about Abu Dhabi International Airport and its services and facilities. Whether you are departing, arriving or transiting through Abu Dhabi, these services make any journey hassle-free. Besides, you might as well enjoy discovering the best places in Abu Dhabi to visit for free. Happy travelling!

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