Gone are the days when arriving at the airport meant finding your gate and waiting for boarding to begin.
At Zayed International Airport, travellers can turn extra hours into part of the journey itself, thanks to an impressive mix of dining destinations, entertainment experiences, and relaxation spaces.
If you’re heading off on holiday or saying goodbye to visiting friends and family this summer, here’s how to make the most of your time before take-off.
Catch The World Cup Live
Football fans won’t have to choose between catching a flight and catching the action, as throughout the tournament, selected restaurants and hospitality venues across the terminal will be screening World Cup matches.
Travellers can watch the action unfold at venues including Todd English Pub, Pier D, and TGI Fridays, all while enjoying perfect match food and drinks.
It’s a welcome addition for travellers facing long waits between flights and wanting to squeeze in a match before boarding.
Make A Meal of It
The airport’s food scene has evolved far beyond the standard pre-flight sandwich, with travellers now able to find everything they need in the terminal.
If you’re craving a family leisurely meal at Jones the Grocer before a long-haul flight, a sophisticated beverage at Bottega, or simply looking for a Starbucks coffee where you can unwind, there are plenty of options to choose from inside Zayed International Airport.
Step Into the Spotlight at Karokay
Perhaps the airport’s most unexpected attraction is Karokay, a new private karaoke booth that offers passengers the chance to sing their favourite tracks before departure.
A fun way to kill some time, it doesn’t matter if you’re travelling with friends, entertaining children before a flight, or simply looking for a memory; it adds a fun and unique twist to the airport experience.
Upgrade Your Airport Experience
For those who have the luxury to seek a little more comfort, the airport’s lounge collection offers a welcome escape from the bustle of the terminal.
Visitors can enjoy comfortable seating, dining options, shower facilities, workspaces, and quiet areas designed to help recharge before the journey.
It’s an ideal choice for anyone facing a long layover in the airport or looking to start their trip on a finer and relaxed note.
You Don’t Need to Be Flying to Visit
A major bonus is the ‘Airport Pass programme’, which allows approved visitors to enter selected areas of the terminal without holding a boarding pass.
That means friends and family dropping off travellers can, grab a meal, explore the terminal, and experience many of the airport’s amenities together before saying goodbye. All you need is either your passport or your Emirates ID to enter.
More Than a Place to Catch a Flight
From karaoke sessions and World Cup screenings to quality dining and premium lounges, Zayed International Airport has become a destination in its own right.
So, travellers who are preparing to fly this summer from Abu Dhabi, it’s worth arriving a little earlier than usual.
For more information, visit Zayed International Airport.
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