Etihad Airways opens new US preclearance lounge at Zayed Intl Airport

Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi’s flag carrier, Etihad Airways, has opened its new Etihad United States Preclearance Lounge at Zayed International Airport ahead of the New Year.

The airline said the new lounge is just steps away from the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility at the airport, inaugurated in December last year.

“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 US Preclearance, we’re offering our guests an elevated journey through Abu Dhabi before boarding their flight. Zayed International is the only Middle East hub to offer this time-saving service,” he said.

One of only a few such facilities worldwide, the facility features a refined selection of beverages and light dining options. The airline said select flights also offer passengers the convenience of direct boarding from the lounge.

Completing all US customs and immigration formalities before boarding in Abu Dhabi allows passengers to arrive in the States as domestic passengers, saving time upon arrival. This facility leverages biometric technology to expedite processing and enhance security.

Etihad currently serves four US destinations with nonstop flights to Boston, Chicago, New York, and Washington, D.C. The airline will also launch services to Atlanta in July 2025.