Etihad Airways is giving travelers an exclusive sneak peek of its newly designed first and business class lounges in Abu Dhabi’s Terminal A. These lounges are set to officially open on November 9, marking a significant milestone as the airline begins limited operations at this hub. The unveiling comes after more than a decade of construction efforts, with the ceremonial first flight already taking off.
The design of these lounges is nothing short of breathtaking, featuring sand-colored archways that gracefully stretch across retail and dining areas. State-of-the-art check-in and security facilities promise a smooth and efficient passenger experience. Travelers can easily move between Terminal A and its neighboring terminals using a free 10-minute shuttle service, and Etihad advises passengers to check terminal information within 72 hours of their flight.
Moreover, Terminal A has already made a star appearance in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1, adding to its allure.
For discerning travelers and frequent flyers, the all-new First Class Lounge and Business Class Lounge by Etihad are among the most eagerly anticipated developments. Let’s take a first look inside:
- The Business Class Lounge boasts a row of window-side lounges, providing an excellent view for guests.
- Both first and business class passengers have dedicated check-in areas, with business class travelers enjoying an exclusive row of check-in desks.
- First-class passengers can indulge in a comfortable and personalized check-in experience.
Spanning three well-lit floors, these lounges offer a variety of culinary options, including a live cooking station and buffet. Additionally, there’s a glamorous rooftop cocktail bar. The First Class Lounge is home to ‘The Parlour,’ where travelers can savor chocolates, pastries, Arabian delicacies, and a refined afternoon tea.
These lounges also feature multiple ‘relaxation spaces,’ offering private rooms with low-set lounges, as well as shower facilities. A games room and a parents’ room are available for those traveling with children.
Visitors to the Business Class Lounge can take advantage of a spa and salon for haircuts, manicures, and pedicures, and first-class guests are, of course, welcome as well. Multiple showers are available for travelers to freshen up before their flight.
The lounges showcase a contemporary aesthetic with a lighter and fresher color palette, including pale timber floors and chocolate-colored carpets. Burgundy, cream, and caramel-colored lounges are complemented by stone benches and coffee tables, with a subtle touch of golden accents.
These lounges can accommodate well over 1,000 travelers, with the first-class wing catering to high flyers on Etihad’s A380s. These aircraft will operate three times a day between Abu Dhabi and London starting in early December.
Access to the lounges is complimentary for passengers flying in first class, holding eligible business class tickets, or being eligible Etihad Guest members. Velocity Platinum frequent flyers are also granted access to the first-class lounge when booked on an Etihad-operated flight.
