Abu Dhabi Airports has opened a new U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) preclearance facility at Zayed International Airport (AUH), marking a first in the Middle East and Asia. The facility allows passengers traveling on Etihad Airways flights to complete U.S. immigration and customs checks in Abu Dhabi, letting them arrive in the U.S. as domestic passengers. This eliminates long immigration queues and enhances travel convenience.
The launch event was attended by senior officials, including Elena Sorlini, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Airports, U.S. Ambassador Martina Strong, Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves, and Judson Murdock from CBP. Sorlini emphasized the facility’s role in establishing Abu Dhabi as a leading aviation hub, while Strong highlighted its significance in strengthening U.S.-UAE relations.
Etihad Airways, operating 35 flights weekly to four U.S. destinations, will benefit from the streamlined process. Premium travelers will also enjoy enhanced amenities, with a new luxury lounge in the preclearance facility set to open in December 2024. The airport already boasts high-end lounges with features like live-cooking restaurants and rest facilities, elevating the passenger experience. This development reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position in global aviation.
