Saturday, November 16, 2024 Abu Dhabi Airports unveils a U.S. CBP preclearance facility at Zayed International, enhancing travel to the U.
S. Today, Zayed International Airport hosted the grand opening of its new U.S.
Customs and Border Protection preclearance facility, under the auspices of Abu Dhabi Airports. Distinguished guests at the event included Elena Sorlini, CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports; U.S.
Ambassador to the UAE, Martina Strong; Etihad Airways CEO, Antonoaldo Neves; and Judson Murdock, Deputy Executive Assistant Commissioner for CBP. This unique facility, a first in the Middle East and Asia, positions Abu Dhabi as a major international travel hub. The collaboration between U.
S. CBP, Etihad Airways, and Etihad Airport Services means that passengers on all Etihad flights to the U.S.
can complete immigration formalities before departure from Abu Dhabi. This allows them to enter the U.S.
as domestic travelers, significantly cutting down on wait times. Etihad Airways operates 35 weekly flights to key U.S.
cities including Boston, Chicago, New York, and Washington DC, all of which benefit from the new preclearance system. The airport features opulent Business and First-class lounges spread across three levels, providing amenities such as Etihad’s live-cooking restaurant, accommodations for sleeping, and shower facilities. From December 2024, a new lounge will be available in the preclearance zone, catering to premium passengers traveling to the U.
S. The facility is equipp.