AUH Airport Live Departures
Abu Dhabi Airport Departures Information
There are a few ways to check in for Abu Dhabi Airport departures: you can check in at your airline’s check-in counter, online in advance, using the self-service kiosks, or remotely. There are 26 check-in desks in the main terminal (TA). To locate your airline’s check-in counter, check the flight information screens in the terminal or our Abu Dhabi Airport Live Departures board. Alternatively, you can use the self-service kiosks to check in, print your boarding pass and then drop your bags off.
Likewise, most airlines offer online check-in up to 24 hours before departure. This allows those with only carry-on luggage to head directly to security upon arriving at the airport. However, if you are travelling with luggage, you will need to drop your bags off at the self-bag drop kiosks.
Finally, the airport also provides a remote check-in service, allowing passengers to check in from Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal or Yas Mall (The Fountains) for an extra fee of €7.55 (AED 35). In either location, look for the Morafiq service desk. There, you can drop your bags and collect your boarding pass from 24 hours in advance.
*Keep in mind that you must check in at Terminal A, even if you are departing from T3. You can then take the free shuttle from Gate F straight to T3.
Abu Dhabi Airport Terminal A Departures
- The check-in area, self-service kiosks and counters for both Terminal A and Terminal 3 are located on the ground floor of TA.
- Security and the main departure lounge are located in the central area of TA.
- Boarding gates are divided between four piers (A, B, C and D).
Abu Dhabi Airport Terminal 3 Departures
- Strictly for US departures.
- There is no check-in area in T3.
- Home to gates 28-31.
- A transit hotel (Premier Inn) is located between T1 and T3.
NOTE: New technology at Abu Dhabi Airport allows you to register your face as your ID, meaning that you can clear check-in procedures and passport control without taking your passport out of your pocket. Registration can be done at immigration. Once registered, you can use the e-gates every time you visit the airport.
When to arrive at Abu Dhabi Airport?
Abu Dhabi Airport’s official advice states that passengers should aim to arrive at least three hours before long-haul flights and two hours ahead of short-haul flights.
What’s next?
Once you’ve checked in for your Abu Dhabi Airport departure, you can head straight to security. It’s a good idea to check what you can and can’t take in your luggage. As a general rule, liquids must be stored in clear 100 ml containers and packed in a clear plastic bag (max capacity 1 litre). New scanning technology at security means there’s no need to remove your liquids and electronic devices from your luggage. Simply place your suitcase on the conveyor belt and walk through the scanner.
Abu Dhabi Airport security waiting times can be anywhere from 10-15 minutes. However, queues may be significantly longer during peak season.
*Those who book the Meet and Assist service or certain business/first-class passengers are eligible for expedited security.
Following security, you’ll enter Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new departures lounge (TA) and proceed to your boarding gate. You will need to present your boarding pass and ID at the gate. There are also e-gates available for faster access.
What to do in Departures at Abu Dhabi Airport?
The new terminal (Terminal A) at Zayed International Airport is an architectural triumph. Sleek and modern, the airport offers passengers a unique experience. Abu Dhabi Airport’s departures area provides travellers with relaxation zones, currency exchange and cash services, accessible toilets and baby changing rooms, family services, prayer rooms, showers, medical services, and WiFi.
Terminal A also houses over 100 shops and food and beverage outlets, as well as VIP lounges, children’s play areas, health and beauty spas, and an on-site transit hotel for those with a long layover.
*If you’re shopping in Abu Dhabi Airport duty-free, it’s wise to check the tax-free allowance for the country you’re travelling to.
Frequently Asked Questions
When to arrive at Abu Dhabi Airport?
The airport recommends arriving three hours ahead of long-haul and international flights and two hours before short-haul flights.