Etihad Opens Dedicated U.S. Preclearance Lounge at Zayed International Airport

Etihad Airways has made a significant enhancement to its premium travel services with the opening of the new Etihad U.S. Preclearance Lounge at Zayed International Airport on 30 December 2024. This dedicated lounge, located steps away from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility, aims to elevate the travel experience for passengers flying to the United States.

A Serene Space for Premium Guests

The new lounge provides eligible guests with a tranquil space to unwind after completing their U.S. entry formalities and before boarding their flight. The thoughtfully designed facility features a refined selection of beverages and light dining options, perfectly complementing Etihad’s premium travel experience. Some select flights even offer the convenience of direct boarding from the lounge, ensuring a seamless journey for passengers.

“This new lounge marks another milestone in our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for our guests,” said John Wright, Chief Operations & Guest Officer at Etihad Airways. “By combining our premium lounge service with the convenience of U.S. Preclearance, we’re offering our guests an elevated journey through Abu Dhabi before they even board their flight. Zayed International is the only Middle East hub to offer this time-saving service.”

Who Can Access the Lounge?

The U.S. Preclearance Lounge welcomes eligible guests traveling in The Residence, First or Business, as well as Platinum and Emerald Etihad Guest members. Access is also available for purchase, subject to availability. For a comprehensive premium experience, eligible guests are encouraged to begin their journey at Etihad’s acclaimed First or Business Class Lounge in the main terminal before proceeding to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility.

The Advantage of U.S. Preclearance

Flying with Etihad Airways to the U.S. offers the unique advantage of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility, one of only a few such facilities worldwide. By completing all U.S. customs and immigration formalities before boarding in Abu Dhabi, guests arrive in the States as domestic passengers, saving valuable time upon arrival. This allows passengers to collect their bags and go or proceed seamlessly to their connecting flights.

Expanding U.S. Destinations

Etihad currently serves four U.S. destinations with nonstop flights to Boston, Chicago, New York, and Washington, D.C. The airline will also launch services to Atlanta in July 2025, further strengthening its commitment to the North American market.

With the introduction of the new U.S. Preclearance Lounge at Zayed International Airport, Etihad Airways continues to set new standards for premium travel, offering passengers unparalleled comfort, convenience, and world-class service.