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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.