Etihad Airways has launched its new United States Preclearance Lounge at Zayed International Airport, making Abu Dhabi the only Middle Eastern hub to offer this streamlined service.
Conveniently located just steps from the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility inaugurated in December 2024, the lounge enhances Etihad’s commitment to offering premium travel services.
“This new lounge marks another milestone in our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for our guests,” said John Wright, Chief Operations & Guest Officer at Etihad Airways. “By combining our premium lounge service with the convenience of US Preclearance, we’re offering our guests an elevated journey through Abu Dhabi before boarding their flight.”
The preclearance service allows passengers to complete US customs and immigration formalities in Abu Dhabi, enabling them to arrive in the US as domestic travelers, thereby saving considerable time upon landing. Passengers on select flights can also enjoy the convenience of direct boarding from the lounge.
The facility offers a thoughtfully curated range of beverages and light dining options, blending luxury with efficiency. It also utilizes advanced biometric technology to ensure faster processing and heightened security.
Etihad currently operates nonstop flights to four US cities—Boston, Chicago, New York, and Washington, D.C.—with plans to expand its network by launching a new service to Atlanta in July 2025.