Eid holidays 2025: UAE carrier issues travel tips for spring, summer holidays

Abu Dhabi: Etihad Airways, Abu Dhabi’s national carrier, announced on Thursday that it is gearing up for a major increase in passenger traffic at Zayed International Airport from March to August.

The airline has encouraged early planning and utilization of its several digital services to ensure a smooth travel experience.

The airline said it expects high passenger volumes during the School Spring Break (March 20- April 13), Eid Al Fitr (late March), Hajj Season (May), Eid Al Adha (early June), and the School Summer Break (June 28 to August 24).

Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Etihad Airways Interim Chief Operations and Guest Officer said, “We are preparing to welcome thousands of additional guests during these peak periods. Our teams are fully prepared to ensure every journey begins smoothly, and we recommend travellers take advantage of our numerous check-in options and digital tools to enjoy a relaxed start to their holidays.” The airline has not revealed how many passengers are expected to fly with the carrier during this time.

Etihad Airways has compiled essential tips to help guests prepare for their travels:

Flight information and updates

Staying informed is key during busy travel periods. Passengers can easily access flight information through the Manage My Booking section on etihad.com or via the mobile app.

Early check-in

Passengers are encouraged to arrive at the airport at least four hours before departure during peak periods. For added convenience, Etihad offers multiple early check-in options:

Online check-in opens 48 hours before departure and is available through etihad.com or the mobile app. After checking in online, passengers can use the many automated self-service bag drops at the terminal to weigh and tag their bags and collect their boarding passes in under a minute.

Several off-airport check-in and bag-drop facilities are also available at:

•       Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal (open 24 hours)

•       The Fountains – YAS Mall (open from 10 am to 10 pm)

•       Mussafah (open from 10 am to 10 pm) at 38 Al Arzaq Street, Behind Al Madina Hypermarket

•       Al Ain (open from 10 am till 10 pm) at Lulu Hypermarket Kuwaitat, Shakhboot Bin Sultan St

Home check-in and land and leave services

Passengers can start their journey with home check-in through MORAFIQ, which is available up to five hours before departure. Starting from Dh185, this service includes baggage check-in, seat selection, and doorstep delivery of boarding passes.

Pre-purchase travel options

Enhanced comfort options are available on etihad.com for travellers during the busy holiday. Economy Extra Legroom offers more space to stretch out, while the Neighbour-free Seat option can be selected at least 72 hours before departure.

Passengers can also enhance their pre-flight experience with First and Business Class Lounge access, available for purchase up to 90 minutes before departure.

US pre-clearance facility

Travellers to US destinations must check in at Terminal A at least four hours before their flight. First, Business and Residence guests should arrive at the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility 90 minutes before departure, while all other travellers must arrive two hours before departure. The facility closes one hour before flight departure.