Abu Dhabi Airport Guide: What You Need to Know Before You Travel

Practical information about Abu Dhabi Airport

Abu Dhabi Airport, officially known today as Zayed International Airport (formerly Abu Dhabi International Airport), is Abu Dhabi's main airport and one of the most technologically advanced airports in the world. It handles millions of passengers annually and serves as an important hub between Europe, Asia, and Africa. The airport is located approximately 30 kilometers from the city center, and the travel time depends on several factors: the time of day, traffic conditions, and the means of transportation chosen. In practice, the travel time to the center of Abu Dhabi is between 25 and 45 minutes.

This airport in the capital of the UAE was designed with passenger convenience and comfort in mind, so from the moment you step off the plane, you can feel that everything here works efficiently and logically.

What terminals are there at Abu Dhabi Airport?

Until recently, Abu Dhabi Airport consisted of several terminals, but now all passenger services have been moved to one huge facility. The new airport, or rather the new Zayed International Airport terminal, is the heart of the entire infrastructure.
This modern terminal:

• handles all available flights - domestic and international,
• brings together check-in, security, duty-free and boarding in one place,
• significantly shortens the passage between individual zones.

As a result, passengers no longer have to worry about the connections between terminals, as everything takes place in a single, logically designed building with an impressive, modern design.

Check-in and security at the airport

The check-in process at Abu Dhabi Airport is one of the best organized in the region. Passengers can use both traditional check-in desks and self-service kiosks, which allow them to quickly check in their luggage and collect their boarding passes.

Passport control deserves special attention. Thanks to modern biometric systems and automatic gates, many travelers can pass through control smoothly, without long queues. Of course, traffic is heavier during peak hours, but even then, the whole process runs smoothly.
It is worth approaching security checks calmly and with plenty of time to spare. Good organization, clear signage, and helpful staff make it easier to pass through security, which translates into greater peace of mind for passengers at every stage of their journey.

Airport infrastructure and amenities

Abu Dhabi Airport has been designed to make passengers feel comfortable everywhere, whether they are on a short layover or waiting for a long flight.
After passing through security, a spacious duty-free zone opens up, offering a wide selection of perfumes, cosmetics, alcohol, and local products. You will also find numerous shops, service points, and a wide range of restaurants serving international cuisine.
For those who value peace and privacy, there are exclusive lounges offering comfortable workspaces, meals, showers, and relaxation areas. The terminal also has plenty of charging points for electronic devices, which every traveler will appreciate.

Transport from Abu Dhabi Airport

Transport from Abu Dhabi Airport is well thought out and allows for quick travel to various parts of the city.

Buses

Public buses are the cheapest transport option. They run regularly to the Central Bus Station in Abu Dhabi, from where it is easy to change to other connections in the city. Long-distance connections are also available, including to Dubai. If you are traveling during the high season, from November to March, remember to book your accommodation in advance, as hotel availability is limited during this period and prices rise quickly.

Taxis

Official taxis are waiting directly in front of the terminal. This is a convenient choice if you are traveling with luggage or want to get to your hotel quickly. The cost of the ride is moderate, and the travel time depends on traffic.

Private transfer

For those who value maximum comfort, a private transfer is available. This is the ideal solution after a long journey or for business travel, when comfort and direct access to your accommodation are important.

Flights arriving and departing from Abu Dhabi

Flights from Abu Dhabi cover hundreds of destinations around the world. The main airline is Etihad Airways, but other international carriers also operate from the airport.
If you have another flight, the new terminal allows for a quick transfer without having to leave the transit area. Arrival and departure information is available on airport screens and mobile apps, making it easy to plan your onward journey.

Good to know before you travel

• Check your airline's check-in rules
• Plan your transportation from the airport in advance
• Allow extra time during peak hours
• If you want the lowest price, choose buses
• The airport offers information desks with lots of useful information.

Questions and answers

1. Does Abu Dhabi Airport handle international flights?

Yes, Abu Dhabi Airport handles numerous international flights to Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. It is one of the most important airports in the Middle East and the main transfer hub in the region.

2. Which airlines fly from Abu Dhabi?

Etihad Airways is the main airline flying from Abu Dhabi, offering connections to all continents. In addition, the airport also serves many international and regional carriers, including European, Asian, and low-cost airlines. This gives passengers a wide choice of destinations and competitive ticket prices.

3. Are there shops and restaurants at Abu Dhabi Airport?

Yes, the airport has an extensive shopping and dining area available both before and after security. Passengers can enjoy a wide range of duty-free shops and restaurants serving international and local cuisine. This allows them to spend their waiting time in comfort.

4. How to get from Abu Dhabi Airport to the city center?

You can get from Abu Dhabi Airport to the city center by public bus, which is the cheapest option and runs regularly to the main points of the city. Taxis and private transfers are also available, providing a faster and more comfortable ride directly to your hotel. The travel time to the center depends on traffic conditions and the time of day.