Zayed International Airport

Overview

Zayed International Airport (IATA: AUH, ICAO: OMAA) is the primary international airport serving Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Located on the mainland about 30 kilometres east of Abu Dhabi city centre, it is a major hub for Etihad Airways and connects the region to destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, Africa, and North America. The airport has undergone significant expansion in recent years, including the opening of a new terminal (Terminal A) in 2023, which has substantially increased its capacity and improved passenger facilities. As the second-largest airport in the UAE, it plays a crucial role in the country's aviation network and economic growth, handling tens of millions of passengers annually. The airport is named after the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, and reflects the nation's commitment to world-class infrastructure.

Amenities

Zayed International Airport offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and efficient travel experience. The following services are confirmed to be available:

• On-site services: The airport provides various passenger services, including information desks, lost and found, and currency exchange.
• Wheelchair-accessible car park: Designated parking spaces for travellers with reduced mobility are available and clearly marked.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance: All terminal entrances are equipped with ramps and automatic doors for easy access.
• Wheelchair-accessible toilet: Accessible restrooms are located throughout the terminal, meeting international standards.
• Baggage storage: Left luggage facilities are available for passengers who wish to store their bags, either during a layover or before checking into a hotel.
• Toilet: Standard restroom facilities are plentiful and maintained to a high standard.
• Has changing table(s): Baby changing tables are installed in family-friendly restrooms, making travel with infants more convenient.
• Paid parking lot: The airport operates multiple parking options, including short-term, long-term, and premium lots, all managed via a ticketing system. Electric vehicle charging stations are also available in some areas.

Please note that amenities may be subject to change or temporary closure; the airport's website provides the most current information.

Peak Hours

Passenger traffic at Zayed International Airport tends to concentrate around midday. The busiest times are 12 PM and 1 PM, when numerous international flights depart and arrive. During these periods, security queues and check-in counters may experience longer wait times. Travellers are advised to arrive at least three hours before an international flight to allow sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and passport control. Early morning and late evening hours are generally quieter.

Hours of Operation

The airport itself is operational 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, individual services and facilities — such as shops, restaurants, and specific check-in counters — may have limited hours. Some outlets close overnight or during certain times of the day. It is recommended to check the airport's website for the operating hours of specific amenities if you have a late-night or early-morning flight.

Contact Information

• Website: www.zayedinternationalairport.ae
• Phone: +971 2 805 5555

For inquiries about flight schedules, lost property, or accessibility services, the airport's customer service team can be reached via the contact form on the website or by phone. The airport also maintains active social media channels for real-time updates.

Getting to the Airport

Zayed International Airport is connected to Abu Dhabi city centre and the wider region by road. Taxis are readily available from all parts of the city, with fixed fares to the airport. Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem operate in Abu Dhabi. Public bus routes serve the airport, including the A1 and A2 lines from the city centre and other key locations. For those driving, the airport is easily accessible via the E10 and E12 highways. Car rental agencies have desks in the arrivals hall.

Nearby Accommodation

Several hotels are located within the airport complex or in the immediate vicinity, catering to transit passengers and those with early departures. These include properties connected to the terminal by walkways or a short shuttle ride. Options range from luxury to budget-friendly, with many offering soundproofed rooms and flexible booking policies for layovers.