Zayed International Airport

Welcome

Zayed International Airport's newly launched Terminal A is truly a spectacle, resembling more of a UAE lifestyle mall than a traditional airport. With its massive central atrium and an array of big-name luxury retail stores, it might remind you of shopping hotspots like Yas Mall. However, while it dazzles visually and is packed with renowned brands, early patrons have noted growing pains with wayfinding, staffing, and lounge access as it finds its footing.

At a glance

Welcoming approximately 15.9 million passengers annually, Zayed International is not just strategic for Abu Dhabi but also a significant hub for Etihad Airways. Located about 30.6 km east of Abu Dhabi city, it features a single terminal - Terminal A – with four gates. Two runways ensure smooth airline operations in and out of the city.

Terminals & layout

Terminal A is the nucleus of Zayed International Airport, designed to offer a cohesive journey for all travelers. The terminal features four gates and serves as a primary hub for Etihad Airways. Visitors might find the expansive spaces both impressive and daunting, especially with reports of initial confusion regarding wayfinding. Frequent flyers suggest allowing extra time for navigating through the massive atrium filled with luxury shops and the mezzanine ‘Food Park’ above the central concourse.

Getting to and from the city

Located 30.6 km from the heart of Abu Dhabi, multiple transport options are at your disposal. Budget-minded travelers can opt for local buses, such as the A1, A2, and A40, each costing AED 4. For those heading to Dubai, the Airport Express coach offers an alternative to the roughly AED 200-300 taxi fare. Those using ride-hailing services can choose between Uber and Careem, or hire a vehicle from the Car Rental Village.

Traveller essentials

Parking is a vital consideration at Zayed International. If you're picking someone up, the Arrivals car park provides a 15-minute free parking window before fees kick in, convenient for quick drop-offs or pick-ups. Long Stay Parking charges AED 225 for 2-3 days, rising to AED 400 for 8-14 days. Tread carefully to avoid escalating costs, particularly if your visit extends beyond your initial plan.

Dining & shopping highlights

Food enthusiasts will relish the variety within Terminal A. The mezzanine ‘Food Park’ offers a plethora of options from Burger King and Texas Chicken to Krispy Kreme and Taste of India. For a quieter dining experience, Jones the Grocer on the departures concourse provides an oasis, often preferred over the bustling mezzanine area. On the shopping front, Terminal A boasts premium brands such as Balenciaga, Chanel Beauty, and Hermès, providing a luxe shopping experience.

Lounges

Zayed International offers several lounges for passengers seeking comfort. The Etihad Airways First Class and Business Class Lounges in Terminal A remain premium picks, matched by The House Lounge and the Plaza Premium Lounge. For those without airline-specific perks, the Al Dhabi Lounge presents a serene escape. Crucially, early users of Terminal A have highlighted teething problems with lounge accessibility, so consider this when planning your visit.

Insider tips

• Insider: Use the Arrivals car park for a quick meetup; you get 15 minutes free to avoid terminal forecourt congestion.
• Time: The mezzanine Food Park upstairs in Terminal A speeds up food choices with brands like Burger King and Operation Falafel in one spot.
• Avoid: Don’t loop to the Food Park if you're after McDonald's — it’s by Jones the Grocer along the main concourse.
• Local: Starbucks long lines? Grab coffee from the chic Arabica kiosk in the atrium instead—it's open 24/7.
• Money: Taxis to Dubai range from AED 200-300; compare with the Airport Express coach for solo or budget travel.
• Quiet: For a peaceful meal, skip the Food Park and try Jones the Grocer for quieter seating and better comfort.