Best tips to spend quality time at Zayed International Airport before your flight

Gone are the days when Zayed International Airport was just a transiting hub; it is a destination in itself. It has luxurious lounges, premium shopping, entertainment options, and other activities to make the most of your time before boarding the flight or peacefully enjoying the layover. Whether two hours or a whole day, there are enough options to relax, travel through, or enjoy the time spent at the Zayed International Airport.

Here's the guide to help you spend quality time at Zayed International Airport.

Relax in an Zayed International Airport Lounge

Exploring the airport lounge is the best way to make your pre-departure experience comfortable and fun-filled. There are various choices for Zayed International Airport lounges: premium-level lounges such as Al Dhabi, Etihad’s First and Business Class, and Plaza Premium Lounge. These lounges promise a quiet setting to enjoy gourmet delicacies, refreshing drinks, and spa treatments. Some even have sleeping rooms and quiet working areas if you must catch up on work before your flight. This luxury can be accessed by joining the airline membership programs or by availing a day pass.

Zayed International Airport duty-free shopping

Go on a spree at Abu Dhabi duty-free, where luxury meets convenience. Duty-free shopping features varieties ranging from the best fashion and lifestyle brands to electronics and beauty products. It further lists an assortment of locally inspired items such as Arabian perfumes, dates, and handcrafted items. It’s another fantastic opportunity to purchase souvenirs or luxury goods at tax-free prices at the airport.

Explore stores at Zayed International Airport

Beyond duty-free, there are many shops at Zayed International Airport where you can find both global brands and local products. From high-end fashion to travel essentials, it offers a very diverse retail experience. Speciality shops offer a variety of regional products, including traditional Arabian sweets, spices, and North African ingredients, to experience local flavours. Bookstores and gadget shops provide entertainment for those who wish to spend hours with a new book or the latest tech accessories.

Dine at world-class restaurants

There are many dining establishments at Zayed International Airport with varied menus to satisfy any palate. Whether you crave Middle Eastern delicacies or international cuisine, the airport has something for everyone. From quick snacks at cafes to gourmet restaurants, travellers can enjoy quality dining experiences here. Many cafes offer a takeaway option for your meal so you can enjoy it comfortably at your boarding gate.

Relax with a spa treatment

For travellers who want to rejuvenate before boarding the flight, Abu Dhabi Airport offers several spas with massage, facial, and grooming services. Treat yourself to a quick massage or unwind with a full-body treatment. A short spa session can ease travel fatigue and give you that relaxed feel as you board your flight to your destination.

Morafiq’s Home Check-in service helps add a solid layer of convenience to your airport experience. With this service, you can check-in from the comfort of your home, have your luggage collected, and receive your boarding pass and bag tags in advance. This saves you a lot of time at the airport, allowing you to explore the premises without worrying about the check-in formalities and queues. Download the Morafiq app or call the toll-free number 800 667 2347 for booking.

If you have a layover at the Zayed International Airport, here’s how you can best utilise your time, keeping boredom away.

Places to visit near Zayed International Airport

If you have an unexpectedly long layover, take some time to explore the places near Zayed International Airport. Aside from the famous Yas Beach, other popular attractions on the island include Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and Yas Waterworld. The nearby Yas Marina Circuit is also highly recommended for motorsport enthusiasts. Those looking for some quiet time could visit the shores of Saadiyat Island as a place of escape. With such attractions within driving distance, a long layover becomes your chance to acquaint yourself with Abu Dhabi’s pulsating culture and entertainment scene.

Plan a day trip to the city

Long layovers also allow you to experience some of the most incredible places to visit in Abu Dhabi. Start by visiting the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – the epitome of modern Islamic architecture. Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi for an enriching art experience, or enjoy the luxury of Emirates Palace. The Corniche offers beaches and bike paths for outdoor enthusiasts along a breathtaking waterfront. Taxis and public transportation are readily available, so getting to and from the airport is swift.

FAQs About Spending Quality Time at Zayed International Airport

1. What lounges are available at Zayed International Airport?

Zayed International Airport offers premium lounges such as the Al Dhabi Lounge, Etihad First and Business Class Lounges, and the Plaza Premium Lounge. These lounges provide gourmet meals, drinks, spa treatments, and quiet workspaces or sleeping areas.

2. How can I access Zayed International Airport lounges?

You can access lounges by joining airline membership programs, purchasing a day pass, or being eligible for access through specific credit card programs.

3. What are the best shopping options at Zayed International Airport?

Zayed International Airport offers duty-free shopping with luxury brands, electronics, beauty products, and locally inspired items like Arabian perfumes and dates. Beyond duty-free, shops sell books, gadgets, and traditional Arabian sweets and spices.

4. Are there good dining options at Zayed International Airport?

Yes, Zayed International Airport has a range of dining establishments, from quick-service cafes to gourmet restaurants, offering international cuisine and Middle Eastern delicacies. Many cafes provide takeaway options for convenience.

5. Are there spas at Zayed International Airport?

Several spas inside the airport offer services such as massages, facials, and grooming. A short spa session can help travellers relax and recharge before their flight.

6. Can I explore attractions near Zayed International Airport during a layover?

Absolutely! Popular attractions near Zayed International Airport include Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, Yas Waterworld, Yas Marina Circuit, and Saadiyat Island. For cultural experiences, you can visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

7. Is there a Home Check-in service available for Zayed International Airport?

Yes, Morafiq’s Home Check-in service allows you to check-in from home, and receive your boarding pass and bag tags in advance. This saves time and streamlines your airport experience. You can book your Morafiq Home Check-in service up to 5 hours prior to your flight departure time.

8. What can I do during a long layover at Zayed International Airport?

During a long layover, you can:

Relax in lounges
Shop at duty-free stores
Dine at world-class restaurants
Enjoy spa treatments
Explore nearby attractions like Yas Island or Saadiyat Island

9. Can I leave the airport during a layover in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, you can leave the airport during a layover if you have a valid Transit Visa or meet the visa-free entry requirements for Abu Dhabi.

10. What is the best way to spend a short layover at Zayed International Airport?

For short layovers, relax in a lounge, shop at duty-free stores, or enjoy a meal at one of the airport’s restaurants.

11. How far is Yas Island from Zayed International Airport?

Yas Island is approximately a 10-15-minute drive from Zayed International Airport, making it convenient to visit during a layover.

12. Can I book tickets for attractions in Abu Dhabi during my layover?

Yes, you can book tickets for attractions like Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World and guided Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque tours online or at the airport. Booking in advance is recommended. Please contact the respective attractions or visit their website/social handles for more information.

13. What are some must-visit places in Abu Dhabi during a layover?

Must-visit places include the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace, and the Corniche.

14. Is transportation readily available from Zayed International Airport?

Yes, taxis and public transportation are available, making travelling to and from the airport easy.

15. Are there any tips for enjoying a layover in Abu Dhabi?

Use the Morafiq Home Check-in service for convenience.
Plan layover activities based on the time available.
Ensure you meet transit visa requirements if leaving the airport.
Book tickets for popular attractions in advance.

*Pro-tip: If you want to see a particular event, like a guided tour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or Ferrari World, book tickets well in advance.

*Disclaimer: Please check Transit Visa requirements for the same.

Abu Dhabi International Airport offers a blend of luxury, entertainment, and convenience, ensuring that every traveller can make the most of their time. Whether shopping in duty-free stores, relaxing in lounges, or checking out attractions near the airport, there never seems to be a lack of things to do before boarding your flight or during a layover. The mentioned tips will help you turn waiting time into an opportunity to relax, discover, and pamper yourself with new experiences.

For more information, WhatsApp us at +971503364510, call our toll-free number, contact us at support@morafiq.ae, or visit our website and book now.