AUHUpdated June 1, 2026

Abu Dhabi airport

Abu Dhabi · United Arab Emirates

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Departures Arrivals
Abu Dhabi airport (AUH)
Illustrative image
AUH · Overview
Weather now
36 °C
Passengers 2025
32.3 million
From the city
31 km
Terminals
Terminal 1 · Terminal 2 · Terminal 3 · Terminal A

About the airport

Abu Dhabi airport (AUH)
Illustrative image

Zayed International Airport (AUH), formerly known as Abu Dhabi International Airport and opened on 2 January 1982, is the main gateway to the capital of the United Arab Emirates and one of the world's most important connection hubs. It serves as the primary operating hub for Etihad Airways. The airport offers direct flights to key destinations across all continents, including London, Paris, New York, Mumbai, Singapore, Sydney, Riyadh and Cairo, as well as an extensive route network throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania.

Official Website: zayedinternationalairport.ae

Telephone: +971 2 805 5555

Social Media:

Terminals

Following the inauguration of Terminal A in November 2023 and the complete transition of all commercial operations, the airport has consolidated its activity within this state-of-the-art facility. The former Terminals 1, 2 and 3 no longer handle scheduled passenger flights.

  • Terminal A: One of the largest terminals in the world, capable of handling up to 45 million passengers annually. It operates 24 hours a day and processes all domestic and international flights, featuring advanced biometric systems as well as extensive retail and lounge areas.

Annual passenger traffic (2025): 32.3 million passengers.

Information Desks

Passenger information and assistance desks are strategically located throughout Terminal A, both on the departures levels and within the arrivals area. Airport ambassadors are also stationed throughout the boarding areas to assist travellers with connections and services.

Location

The airport is located 31 km (19 miles) southeast of Abu Dhabi.

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Airlines and terminals AUH is the main operating hub for the local carrier Etihad Airways, although it accommodates a wide range of airlines connecting Abu Dhabi with destinations around… Full guide → Getting to and from AUH Zayed International Airport offers a variety of public and private transport options connecting Terminal A with central Abu Dhabi, Dubai and other areas of the United… Full guide → Car rental Car hire offices are centrally located in the Skypark Plaza area, situated opposite Terminal A and accessible on foot via the pedestrian bridges connected to the… Full guide → Services and VIP lounges The airport offers state-of-the-art technological infrastructure and a wide range of services designed for passenger comfort 24 hours a day. Terminal A provides free and unlimited… Full guide → Hotels and overnight stay The airport offers accommodation options both within the secure transit area for connecting passengers and in the vicinity of Terminal A, allowing travellers to rest without… Full guide → Frequently asked questions The most direct options are the Abu Dhabi Mobility buses, specifically routes A1 and A2, which connect Terminal A with the city centre 24 hours a… Full guide →

Parking

The airport offers modern parking facilities located within the Skypark Plaza complex, a multi-storey building situated opposite Terminal A. The facilities are directly connected to the main terminal by climate-controlled pedestrian walkways, providing quick and convenient access within just a few minutes.

Short-Term and Long-Term Parking

The parking system is designed to accommodate different needs, with options available for both hourly and daily stays:

  • Short-Term Parking: Recommended for visitors spending only a few hours at the airport to drop off or collect passengers, with 10 minutes of free parking.
  • Long-Term Parking: Ideal for travellers wishing to leave their vehicle in a secure location for several days or weeks under a daily-rate scheme.
  • Advance Booking: The airport provides an online reservation system that allows travellers to secure a parking space in advance and benefit from preferential rates.

Passenger Drop-off and Pick-up

To ensure smooth traffic flow around Terminal A, specific zones have been designated:

  • Departures: Drivers may stop briefly at the departures kerbside area to drop off passengers and luggage. For security reasons, parking or leaving a vehicle unattended in this area is not permitted.
  • Arrivals: To collect passengers, drivers must use the Skypark Plaza car park or the designated pick-up areas. Access to the arrivals kerbside is restricted to authorised vehicles and transport services.

Additional Services

Valet Parking: For added convenience, the airport offers a valet parking service available at both the departures and arrivals levels. This service allows travellers to leave their vehicle at the terminal entrance and collect it from the same location upon their return.

People of Determination: Reserved and clearly marked parking spaces are available for drivers with disabilities near entrances and lifts. Travellers are advised to enquire at customer service points regarding possible exemptions or payment benefits.

Parking Management: Book parking online

Special assistance

Zayed International Airport has been designed in accordance with international accessibility standards to ensure a smooth travel experience for People of Determination (passengers with disabilities). It is recommended that any special requirements be arranged with your airline or travel agent at least 48 hours before departure.

Infrastructure and Mobility

Terminal A is a fully accessible facility offering the following amenities:

  • Structural Accessibility: Ramps, spacious lifts, level walkways and adapted toilet facilities throughout all terminal areas.
  • Rest Areas: Priority seating areas for passengers with reduced mobility in the departure lounges.
  • Assistance: Availability of wheelchairs and electric buggies to transport passengers between security checkpoints and boarding gates.
  • Parking: Designated parking spaces for People of Determination located near the Skypark Plaza entry and exit points, with preferential rates or exemptions (subject to presentation of the relevant disability card).

Invisible and Sensory Disabilities

The airport provides specific services for passengers with non-visible conditions:

  • Sunflower Lanyard Programme: The airport recognises the Sunflower Lanyard, enabling staff to discreetly identify passengers who may require additional support, extra time or specialised assistance due to invisible disabilities such as autism, hearing loss or anxiety disorders.
  • Sensory Room: A calm and controlled space designed to provide a relaxing environment for passengers who may experience sensory overstimulation.
  • Signage: Information in Braille and tactile paving to assist passengers with visual impairments.

Assistance Desks

Dedicated assistance points are available in the Terminal A departures hall, where support can be requested for the check-in process, security and immigration procedures, and transfer to the aircraft. Vehicles equipped with lifts are also available to facilitate boarding of aircraft not served by direct boarding bridges.

German Giudici

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