Abu Dhabi International Airport’s Terminal A opens in November

The new airport will redefine travel in the capital.

Abu Dhabi, get ready because Abu Dhabi International Airport’s Terminal A will open its doors to the public on Wednesday, 1 November, elevating your airport experience to new heights. Before the grand opening, Etihad Airways will kick things off with a ceremonial flight on 31 October.

The much-awaited Terminal A will open in three phases over two weeks. Starting 1 November, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi and 15 other international airlines will begin operating from the new terminal. From 9 November, Etihad Airways will commence 16 daily flights, ramping up to full operations from 14 November, alongside Air Arabia and 10 other airlines.

Covering 742,000 square metres, Terminal A is among the largest airport terminals in the world. It’s set to accommodate up to 45 million passengers annually. Designed in an X-shape for operational efficiency, Terminal A will feature four themed piers inspired by Abu Dhabi’s natural landscapes – desert, sea, city, and oasis. It’s also home to the Sana Al Nour, one of the largest indoor public art features in the Middle East.

Terminal A has been designed with your comfort in mind. It boasts luxurious lounges, spa facilities and relaxation zones where you can unwind and rejuvenate. Expect two health and beauty spas, a 138-bedroom hotel, and a modern open-air lounge that showcases Arabic hospitality. And with over 160 retail and food and beverage outlets, there’s something to suit every taste.

The shops include Gucci, the world’s first Muji airport store and a whole lot more. Foodies get to chow down on Jones the Grocer, Taste of India, Starbucks, Camden Food, McDonald’s, TGI Fridays and Todd English.

One of the most exciting features of Terminal A is its commitment to streamlining the passenger experience. It will be the world’s first terminal to feature all nine biometric airport touchpoints. Facial recognition technology will be used for processes like self-service bag drops, immigration eGates, and boarding gates, reducing waiting times and making your journey smoother.

Terminal A is not just about luxury and convenience, it’s also about sustainability. With native plants used for landscaping and recycled steel, the airport’s eco-friendly efforts extend to the long-term car park with 7,540 solar panel parking shades.

So book your flights soon.

GO: Visit www.abudhabiairport.ae for more information.