Navigating Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport

Nestled in the heart of the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi, Zayed International Airport stands as a beacon of modern aviation excellence. With its strategic location and world-class facilities, it has become a pivotal hub for travellers spanning the globe. Let’s take a journey through its terminals and explore the myriad offerings that make it a traveller’s paradise.

Terminal A

Imagine stepping into a realm where efficiency meets opulence – that’s precisely what Terminal A, also known as the Midfield Terminal, offers. Inaugurated in November 2023, this architectural marvel redefines the airport experience. Boasting a sprawling covered area of 700,000 square meters, it accommodates up to an astounding 11,000 passengers per hour and nearly 45 million passengers annually.

But Terminal A is more than just numbers; it’s an immersive experience. From state-of-the-art retail outlets to gourmet restaurants and cafes, every corner exudes sophistication. Travellers can indulge in a seamless journey facilitated by cutting-edge technologies, including facial recognition for streamlined queues, advanced baggage handling systems, and a Smart Travel System that simplifies every step from check-in to boarding.

Facilities and Amenities

Abu Dhabi Duty Free

At Central Processor (towards Pier D), you’ll find Abu Dhabi Duty Free, an ideal destination for all your shopping needs. Explore a variety of international and local brands offering fragrances, watches, jewelry, souvenirs, toys, and more. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in some retail therapy during your time at the Abu Dhabi airport.

Lounges

For those seeking solace or luxury, the airport’s lounges provide an oasis of comfort. From the Diamond Lounge to the Etihad Airways Business Class Lounge, guests are treated to complimentary snacks, beverages, and premium hospitality services that redefine the concept of relaxation.

Dining

And when hunger strikes, the airport’s restaurants stand ready to satisfy every craving. Whether it’s a quick bite or a leisurely meal, options like Bottega Bar, Jones The Grocer, or Todd English Pub & Market ensure that culinary delights are never far away.

Your Essential FAQs Answered

Here, we address some frequently asked questions to ensure your travels through AUH are stress-free and convenient.

1. What services can I expect at the airport?

Abu Dhabi International Airport offers a comprehensive range of services to cater to the needs of travellers. From free Wi-Fi and prayer rooms to smoking areas and baby changing facilities, the airport ensures your comfort throughout your journey. Additional amenities include baggage wrapping, porter services, currency exchange, and more.

2. What’s the Zayed International Airport code?

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) code for Abu Dhabi International Airport is “AUH,” while the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) code is “OMAA.”

3. Are there any hotels near Zayed International Airport?

For travellers seeking accommodation near the airport, options like AUHotel within the terminal, Aerotel Abu Dhabi, and Premier Inn Abu Dhabi are popular choices.

4. What can I do during transit at the airport in Abu Dhabi?

Make the most of your layover by relaxing in premium lounges, indulging in duty-free shopping, or dining at the various cafes and restaurants. If your transit exceeds four hours, consider applying for a transit visa to explore the attractions of Abu Dhabi.

6. What items are banned at AUH Airport?

Similar to other airports, Abu Dhabi International Airport prohibits items such as narcotics, weapons, counterfeit currency, goods from boycotted countries, certain medications, and live animals like bats and swine. Refer to the official airport website for the complete list.

7. How can I get a VAT refund at the airport?

Tourists can avail themselves of VAT refunds by visiting the tax refund service counters located within Abu Dhabi International Airport.

8. Where is the lost and found counter at the airport?

For assistance with lost items or luggage, travellers can visit either the pre-immigration counter on Level 0 of the Arrivals Concourse or the post-immigration desk on Level 3 of Departures.

9. Is parking available at Zayed International Airport?

Yes, parking facilities are available at Abu Dhabi International Airport, with fees ranging from AED 15 to AED 125 for a full day’s parking.

10. How can I connect to Abu Dhabi Airport Wi-Fi?

To access the airport’s Wi-Fi, follow these simple steps:

• Open your device’s settings and search for available wireless networks.
• Select the network labelled “Zayed International Airport Free Wi-Fi.”
• Upon redirection to the welcome screen, click “ACCEPT” and provide the required details for internet access.

11. How do I contact Abu Dhabi Airport?

For urgent inquiries, travellers can reach Abu Dhabi Airport via phone at +971-2-505-5555. This line operates 24/7 to assist passengers promptly.

Facts and figures of Zayed International Airport

Here are some facts about the Abu Dhabi Midfield Terminal, as per the Abu Dhabi Airports website:

1. The Midfield Terminal is the largest in Abu Dhabi and will be visible from more than 1.5 kilometre away.
2. The Abu Dhabi Midfield Terminal is expected to see 30 million passengers per year, with a capacity of handling up to 8,500 passengers per hour.
3. The airport have 65 aircraft gates.
4. The minimum connection time will be 45 minutes including baggage transfer.
5. There will be eight A380 boarding gates.
6. There are 156 check-in counters and 48 self-service kiosks.
7. The airline lounges area spans 30,000 square metres.
8. There will be 28,000 square metres of retail and food & beverage space.
9. The terminal will have 4,300 CCTV cameras for security purposes.
10. The terminal will feature 27 kilometres of long baggage handling system capable of processing over 19,000 bags per hour.
11. A total of 145 lifts and 46 travelators will be at the terminal.
12. The terminal can accommodate 3,400 cars in short term covered parking and 1,500 cars in long term parking.
13. Inside the terminal, there will be 700,000 square metres of internal space.
14. The central terminal space can easily fit 21 football fields.
15. Roof span of 319 metres at widest point (almost twice as wide as Heathrow Terminal 5 at 160 metres).
16. The ceiling height is 52 metres at the highest point.
17. The terminal is built with 275,000 square metres of aluminium cladding and 115,000 square metres of external glazing.
18. It is also built using 600,000 cubic metres of concrete, 325,000 square metres of stone flooring, 7,425 foundation piles and 69,000 tonnes of structural steel.
19. The Midfield Terminal has one of the world’s largest arches spanning 180 metres across (20 metres wider than the largest arch span at Heathrow Terminal 5).
20. The terminal was awarded a three pearl design rating from the Estidama Pearl Building Rating System (PBRS) by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (APC).
21. The Midfield Terminal building is the largest singular building ever to be rated globally by the Estidama Pearl Building Rating System (PBRS), making it the highest rated airport terminal in the GCC.
22. In addition, the Midfield Terminal can achieve and maintain a reduction in water consumption of 45 percent over a comparative baseline case.
23. A minimum of 75 percent of the terminal’s construction waste will be diverted from landfills during the construction phase.
24. In addition to recycled materials, the terminal’s use of regional materials has reduced the use of fossil fuels for the construction by reducing transportation needs.