Etihad Airways has just given a sneak peek of its new flagship premium lounges at Abu Dhabi International Airport’s much awaited “Terminal A”. Etihad inaugurated the new terminal on October 31st with a special one off flight before introducing a...
Etihad Airways has just given a sneak peek of its new flagship premium lounges at Abu Dhabi International Airport’s much awaited “Terminal A”. Etihad inaugurated the new terminal on October 31st with a special one off flight before introducing a full transition to the Terminal which should be complete by the 14th November.
Etihad’s impressive new lounges span not one or two, but three floors of Terminal A’s north side, nestled between Piers C and D. The First and Business lounges feature a range of dining options, relaxation and entertainment spaces to suit all guests, including a signature “Constellation Bar” at the enclosed Roof Lounge.
“When designing the Etihad Lounges in our new home, Terminal A, our teams thought through every detail, ensuring an experience that will delight our guests from the moment they step through the door,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad.
“The lounge is a hugely important aspect of our guests’ journey and we wanted to curate an impressive experience that will leave them wanting to fly again soon. In true Etihad style, we’ve been innovative with the design and will offer a selection of memorable experiences whether our guests choose to relax, indulge in various dining options or enjoy a refreshing drink at the signature Constellation Bar,” he continued.
The Etihad lounges are accessible to guests flying in Etihad’s The Residence, First and Business Class and Etihad Guest members with eligible tier status. But even if you aren’t travelling in the carriers premium cabins, guests flying in Economy can also purchase access to Etihad’s Business Lounge subject to availability.
Similar to Emirates’ offering in Dubai’s hub, Etihad’s lounge is also conveniently located with access to three gates offering direct-lounge boarding on selected flights, meaning guests in premium cabins can board straight from the Lounge for convenience and speed. Although three gates doesn’t mean many of its large network of flights will benefit from such an experience, although we would guess that the A380 – with its flagship Residence and First Class cabin – will probably be some of those reserved for these gates.
Within the Lounge, expansive views of the runway can be savoured from the calm and tranquil retreat offered in the East and West Study, which offers guests the perfect place to watch aircraft take-off or come in to land.
What really makes the lounge stand apart from its Abu Dhabi predecessor is the new array of dining experiences. The lounge features “Liwan Global Dining”, Etihad’s informal, all-day dining restaurant which offers an abundance of choice featuring live cooking stations, Emirati and Middle Eastern cuisines alongside international favourites inspired by Etihad’s network.
It’s not just one restaurant though, guests can also choose to dine at the Roof Lounge at select periods and enjoy an international buffet of hot and cold dishes. For those preferring something lighter, there are multiple stations across the lounge where guests can help themselves to a selection of snacks as well as hot and cold drinks.
Perhaps the glittering diamond of the lounge is The Constellation Bar within the Roof Lounge. It is decorated with a 172 piece, 25m long bespoke glass lighting sculpture – Panora – which depicts the Abu Dhabi city skyline. The bar will serve a wide selection of cocktails, mocktails, wines and beverages.
New spaces including “The Relaxation Rooms” provide private spaces complete with day beds and plush Armani Casa furnishings (to mirror the onboard product) for guests to catch up on rest and refresh in one of the 18 beautifully appointed shower suites before their flight.
There are also zoned sections geared towards younger travellers. There is a Games Room which is fully equipped with table football, air hockey and digital gaming options for all to enjoy. Meanwhile, family travellers can enjoy a bespoke Family Room that has been designed with young travellers in mind, and comes packed with games, toys and books.
Additionally, Chesterfield sofas bring plush comfort to the Smoking Lounge for cigarette and cigar smokers. Prayer rooms have also been thoughtfully designed with ensuite ablution areas for comfort and convenience.
Meanwhile, for the ultimate tier Etihad Guests and First Class travellers, the exclusive First lounge offers a dedicated reception lobby for Etihad’s most premium guests and a private elevator to access the Rooftop Lounge on the top floor of the complex. The First Lounge Dining Room offers an elevated dining experience with à la carte dining and a fine and boutique wine selection recommended by in-house experts. The cuisine will reflect the best of Emirati gastronomy as well as the destinations Etihad flies to.
In The Parlour for First customers will be treated to a decadent selection of pastries, desserts and a signature tea experience in an elegant setting. The experience includes an array of tea ceremonies as well as signature coffee presentation.
For the ultimate relaxation and indulgence before flying, First class Private Suites are available for guests to work, relax and dine in complete privacy. The Private Suites are complimentary for guests flying in The Residence and available for booking by all other First class lounge guests.
But what of arrivals? This was always a signature part of the service within Etihad. Luckily Etihad are keeping their Arrivals Lounge, now dubbed the “Chauffeur Lounge”. which is available to premium guests arriving in Abu Dhabi with pre-booked chauffeur services. The lounge offers a space to shower, refresh or simply grab a quick snack or drink before meeting their chauffeur.
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