Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport has introduced a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) pre-clearance facility, the only one of its kind in the Middle East and Asia. Travelers on all Etihad Airways flights to the United States can now complete immigration and customs formalities in Abu Dhabi, allowing them to arrive in the US as domestic passengers and avoid immigration queues.
The facility supports 35 weekly Etihad flights to Boston, Chicago, New York, and Washington, DC. Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves emphasized that pre-clearing customs in Abu Dhabi ensures a seamless travel experience, especially for those connecting to other destinations within the United States.
From December 2024, Etihad will open an exclusive lounge in the pre-clearance area for premium passengers, complementing the airport’s luxurious services, including live-cooking restaurants and rest areas.
US Ambassador Martina Strong highlighted the facility as a significant milestone in UAE-US relations, enhancing travel, tourism, and business. Advanced biometric technology ensures faster processing and improved security, reinforcing Abu Dhabi Airports’ dedication to delivering a world-class passenger experience.
This facility strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub and offers unmatched convenience for US-bound travelers.
