Opening Date Confirmed for Abu Dhabi’s New Terminal A

Travelers passing through Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) will be treated to an entirely new experience as of November 1, 2023, as the brand-new Terminal A will finally open its doors to passengers.

“With final preparations almost complete, I am proud to say we are ready to open Terminal A to the public on November 1,” said Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Interim CEO at Abu Dhabi Airports.

Here’s what you can expect from the swish new terminal at AUH.

28 Airlines Will Call the New Terminal A Home

Ahead of the grand opening on November 1, Etihad — Abu Dhabi’s hometown airline — will operate a ceremonial flight on October 31.

Though the new terminal officially opens on November 1, it won’t be until November 14 when all 28 airlines will be up and running in the X-shaped structure. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad (as well as several other international carriers) will operate flights on the first day of the terminal’s operations, but it won’t be until 2 weeks later that every Etihad flight will depart from and arrive at the new terminal.

“We will see a rapid increase in the number of flights operating from Terminal A as of November 1st to the 14th, and I’m excited by the new opportunities and experiences which the iconic facility will bring to both airlines and passengers,” said Sorlini.

Terminal A Features

Once the terminal is fully operational, passengers will enjoy what’s sure to be among the most advanced and seamless airport experiences in the world as Abu Dhabi will be the first airport to use biometric technology at each of the 9 touchpoints on the customer journey.

Powering the terminal — which will be one of the largest in the world — are over 7,500 solar panels that will save 5,300 tons of carbon dioxide emissions every year, according to the airport.

To keep passengers occupied, there’ll be no fewer than 163 retail outlets — including the world’s first Muji store in an airport — for shoppers to enjoy before flying. It wouldn’t be the Middle East without a bit of luxury and bling, after all.

In the name of rest and relaxation, passengers on long layovers might enjoy a treatment at 1 of 2 spas — and there’s even an open-air lounge.

Speaking of which, Etihad will be opening a brand-new business class lounge and a dedicated first class lounge. The details of each are yet to be revealed.

Final Thoughts

Abu Dhabi serves as one of the world’s major connecting points between North and South America and much of the rest of the world. Soon, all passengers utilizing the hub can look forward to a new state-of-the-art airport experience as of November 14!