24-03-2025
Etihad Airways Prepares for Peak Travel at Zayed Airport
Etihad Airways is preparing for a significant increase in travellers at Zayed International Airport ahead of multiple holiday periods approaching from March through August.
To ensure guests enjoy a smooth start to their journey, the airline is encouraging early planning and utilisation of its comprehensive digital services.
The airline expects particularly high passenger volumes during: School Spring break: March 20-April 13
Eid Al Fitr: Late March
Hajj season: May
Eid Al Adha: Early June
School Summer break: June 28-August 24
Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Etihad Airways Interim Chief Operations and Guest Officer, said: 'We're 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.' Staying informed is key during busy travel periods. Guests can easily access the latest flight information through the Manage My Booking section on or via the mobile app
To avoid potential queues, guests are strongly 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, including online check-in opening 48 hours before departure and is available through or the mobile app. After checking in online, guests can use the many automated self-service bag drops at the terminal, allowing them to weigh and tag their bags and collect their boarding pass in under a minute
There are 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 10am to 10pm)
Mussafah (open from 10am to 10pm) at 38 Al Arzaq Street, Behind Al Madina Hypermarket
Al Ain (open from 10am till 10pm) at Lulu Hypermarket Kuwaitat, Shakhboot Bin Sultan St
For ultimate convenience, guests can start their journey with home check-in through MORAFIQ, available up to five hours before departure. Starting from AED185 ($50), this service includes baggage check-in, seat selection, and doorstep delivery of boarding passes.
Upon return to Abu Dhabi, the Land and Leave service offers a seamless arrival experience. Guests can proceed directly to their destination while MORAFIQ delivers their bags to any Abu Dhabi address within three hours of landing. These services can be booked via the MORAFIQ app or website.
Travellers to US destinations must check in at Terminal A at least four hours before their flight. First, Business, and The Residence guests should arrive at the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility 90 minutes before departure, while all other guests must arrive two hours before departure.
The facility closes one hour before flight departure.
