With Abu Dhabi expecting a busy holiday rush, Etihad Airways has outlined a series of travel tips as the airline prepares for more than two million passengers this month.
The winter peak comes as residents take school holidays abroad and international visitors head to the capital’s growing cultural and leisure attractions.
Busy winter travel season
Etihad says strong demand this December is linked to Abu Dhabi’s rising profile as a global destination and the airline’s network expansion through 2025.
New routes, extra frequencies on popular sectors and improved flows at Zayed International Airport are expected to support smoother passenger movement during the peak.
The airline is also encouraging travellers to use early check-in and digital tools to help reduce waiting times.
Early arrival
Etihad advises passengers to arrive at Zayed International Airport at least three hours before departure. This is intended to allow enough time for check-in, security and reaching the gate.
Travellers who arrive early can also access the airport lounges, the Etihad Spa by Be Relax, and various dining and shopping options.
Digital services
Passengers are encouraged to use the Etihad App, which allows check-in from 30 hours before departure, digital boarding passes, real-time flight and gate notifications and baggage tracking on selected routes. Bookings can also be managed through etihad.com.
City check-in
Etihad continues to offer Abu Dhabi City Check-In at the Cruise Terminal, Yas Mall, Mussafah and Al Ain City. From December 1, 2025, US-bound passengers can also use the Cruise Terminal for offsite check-in. Bags can be dropped and boarding passes collected up to 24 hours before the flight.
Early bag options
Travellers can drop bags at the airport up to 24 hours before departure, or 12 hours before US flights. Home Check-In is also available in Abu Dhabi for passengers who prefer to complete the process from home, hotels or offices.
Baggage rules
The airline reminds travellers to ensure their luggage meets size and weight limits. Items such as power banks, removable-battery smart bags and e-smoking devices must be carried in cabin baggage. Full details are available on etihad.com.
Connecting flights
With its expanding network, Etihad highlights one-stop connections through Abu Dhabi to destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia and North America.
Abu Dhabi Pass
Travellers visiting or stopping over in the capital can use the Abu Dhabi Pass, which offers discounts at cultural attractions, restaurants and leisure venues. Participating sites include Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque visitor experiences and several Yas Island attractions. The pass also provides a complimentary local SIM or eSIM with data.
The airline says the pass offers added value for visitors planning to explore museums, cultural districts, winter events and New Year’s celebrations across the city this month.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
