Abu Dhabi International Airport's new Terminal A, set to open on 1
November 2023, promises a transformative passenger experience. The
Terminal will host Etihad's ceremonial flight on October 31st before
opening to the public.
The new terminal, covering 742,000 sqm, is set to become one of the
largest airport terminals globally. It can accommodate up to 45 million
passengers annually, and 11,000 passengers per hour.
Airlines will shift to Terminal A in three phases over two weeks,
commencing with Wizz Air Abu Dhabi and 15 other international airlines
on 1 November. By 9 November, Etihad Airways will operate 16 daily
flights from the new terminal, with full transition scheduled for 14
November, alongside Air Arabia Abu Dhabi and 10 other airlines.
Here's what to expect:
- Shop and dine: Terminal A provides a 35,000sqm
shopping haven with 163 retail outlets and food & beverage options.
Passengers can explore renowned brands like Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent,
Ferragamo, and the world's first Muji airport store. Foodies can relish
an array of culinary delights from Jones The Grocer, Taste of India,
Starbucks, and the Camden Food Co.
- Family-friendly: The terminal is designed to cater
to all ages. McDonald's and TGI Fridays offer kids familiar dining
experiences in playful settings. For adults, Todd English opens his
first airport restaurant, providing diverse cuisine options from around
the world.
- Relax and rejuvenate: Terminal A prioritises the
passenger experience, offering streamlined service from kerb to gate.
Two health and beauty spas, a high-quality 138-bedroom hotel, and a
modern open-air lounge ensure passengers can unwind and prepare for
their journey.
- Cutting-edge technology: This terminal is set to be
the first in the world to include all nine biometric airport
touchpoints. Facial recognition technology will be used in self-service
bag drops, immigration eGates, and boarding gates. The advanced baggage
handling system can process up to 19,200 bags per hour, guaranteeing a
hassle-free journey.
- Operational efficiency: With a design inspired by
Abu Dhabi's natural landscapes, Terminal A features four themed piers.
Its advanced baggage handling system, capable of processing up to 19,200
bags per hour, and 65 parking stands linked to boarding gates, reduce
congestion and ensure a smoother travel experience.