Things to do at Zayed International Airport on a layover
Do you have a long layover at Zayed Airport and are wondering how to kill time while you wait for your connecting flight? Worry not—there are many things to do at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport on a layover. We bring you a comprehensive guide to the facilities and services available.
BASIC THINGS TO DO ON A LAYOVER AT ZAYED INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
LOAD UP ON SOME CASH
Whether you are running low on cash or wish to withdraw UAE dirhams, ATM services at the Zayed International Airport have got you covered. Head to ATM facilities of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank to get cash 24 hours a day. Additionally, you can head to the currency exchange service available at the airport.
BUY YOUR MEDICINES FROM THE PHARMACY
Did you forget to bring your medicine from home? Don’t worry. Boots Pharmacy offers over-the-counter and prescription medications. As implied, you must show your doctor’s prescription to purchase medicines that fall into the latter category.
DINING AND SHOPPING ACTIVITIES AT ZAYED INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ABU DHABI
ENJOY A MEAL AT A RESTAURANT
There are plenty of restaurants that you can explore during a layover at Zayed International Airport.
- The Meat District: Savour classic American fare like hotdogs, hamburgers and fries alongside refreshing beverages and homemade milkshakes.
- Shawa: Explore the diverse flavours of Lebanon with customisable dishes for every palate, including kids’ options. Don’t miss their irresistible desserts and lemonades.
- Jones The Grocer: Embark on a unique culinary adventure to satisfy your individual taste preferences.
- Maatouk Coffee: Experience tradition and expertise in every cup for over 50 years. Their distinctive flavours create a special coffee moment.
- Puro Gusto: Indulge in true Italian coffee and food crafted with care. They roast coffee beans in-store and use authentic methods for a taste of Italy. Their menu features iconic Italian recipes and seasonal gourmet dishes.
- The Majlis: Discover a one-of-a-kind camel milk cafe experience. Create your customised camel milk drink or enjoy classic hot or cold beverages, alongside a variety of sweet and savoury options.
- SO! Coffee: Find your perfect cup with a wide selection of hot and cold beverages, featuring both regular and organic roasted beans. Complement your drink with gourmet sandwiches, pastries, salads and tempting cakes.
- Todd English Pub & Market: Take a culinary journey with celebrity chef Todd English’s exceptional menu. Enjoy sushi, pasta, pizza, cured meats, grilled specialities and a fully licenced bar.
- Other options include Pana, Culto Cafe, Starbucks, Bottega Bar, Costa Coffee and many others.
SHOP TILL YOU DROP AT THE ABU DHABI AIRPORT
At the shops in Abu Dhabi Airport, you can browse through an impressive collection of timepieces, explore classic, elegant handbags and look at the varied selection of fragrances from top-selling brands.
The well-stocked Abu Dhabi duty-free is a great place to get some good deals. From sweets and confectionary to high-end designer wear, there’s plenty to engage shopaholics at the airport in Abu Dhabi.
Here are some famous shops at the airport.
- Fendi: Explore a world of innovation and playful luxury with Fendi’s iconic designs in clothing, accessories and fur.
- Balenciaga: Embrace fearless self-expression with Balenciaga’s avant-garde fashion and daring designs.
- Hermes: Experience timeless French elegance and craftsmanship with Hermes’ high-quality accessories and fashion items.
- Bvlgari: Experience Italian luxury and exquisite craftsmanship with Bvlgari’s bold jewellery designs.
- Michael Kors: Add a touch of Hollywood glamour to your wardrobe with Michael Kors’ wide selection of handbags, watches and clothing.
- Pure Gold Jewellers: Discover a dazzling collection of exclusive jewellery brands crafted from precious and semi-precious stones.
- Burberry: Discover quintessential British style with Burberry’s iconic trench coats, plaid patterns and timeless accessories.
- Polo Ralph Lauren: Introduce a touch of East Coast sophistication to your wardrobe with Polo Ralph Lauren’s iconic designs and timeless fashion.
- Victoria’s Secret: Indulge in award-winning fragrances, body care and accessories from Victoria’s Secret.
- Claire’s: Find the latest trends in fun and affordable jewellery and accessories for girls of all ages.
- Gucci: Step into a world of statement pieces and Italian luxury with Gucci’s collection of clothing, footwear and accessories.
- Coach: Elevate your style with Coach’s timeless American designs in handbags, accessories and footwear.
- And more: Explore a variety of other renowned shops, including Bath & Body Works, Zenith, Muji, Longines, The Souq, Le Club and many more.
RELAXING THINGS TO DO AT ZAYED INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
REJUVENATE YOURSELF AT THE LOUNGES OR HOTELS
Long-haul flights take a toll on the body so a bit of time to relax is always welcome. You can reinvigorate yourself by spending some time at any of the premium lounges or AU Hotel.
- Diamond Lounge (Terminal A): Experience unparalleled luxury with exclusive amenities and personalised service, ensuring a seamless and stress-free travel experience.
- Pearl Lounge (Terminal A): Unwind in comfort and style. This expansive lounge offers a variety of options to suit your needs, including indoor and outdoor bars, dining areas, quiet relaxation zones, meeting rooms and family areas.
- Salam Meet & Assist Services: Enhance your journey with personalised assistance from arrival to departure. Salam agents will guide you through the airport, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.
- Etihad Airways First Class Lounge (Terminal A): Indulge in pre-flight luxury. This exclusive space offers a refined ambience, gourmet dining, private suites for ultimate relaxation and dedicated areas for refreshments and unwinding.
- Etihad Airways Business Class Lounge (Terminal A): This lounge offers a range of features to suit your needs. Enjoy international cuisine at Liwan Global Dining, or keep young travellers entertained in the Family Room. Relax in a private room, challenge friends to a game, or unwind at the Roof Lounge with its signature bar and multiple dining options.
- Etihad US Premium Lounge(US CBP Facilities): For First and Business Class guests flying to the US, this convenient post-security lounge offers comfortable seating and light refreshments while you wait for your connecting flight.
FAQs
CAN YOU LEAVE ABU DHABI AIRPORT DURING THE LAYOVER?
Yes, you can, if you have a valid transit visa and more than four hours to spare.
ARE THERE ANY HOTELS NEAR ZAYED INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?
As mentioned, the AUHotel is located within the airport. Aerotel Abu Dhabi and Premier Inn Abu Dhabi are popular hotels near Zayed International Airport.
WHAT SERVICES CAN I EXPECT AT THE AIRPORT?
In addition to the aforementioned services, the airport offers free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, smoking rooms, baby changing rooms, showers and more.
There is also baggage wrap, porter service, Morafiq remote check-in, Al Ssaada Transactions and a follow-up centre.
WHAT ITEMS ARE BANNED AT THE AUH AIRPORT?
Items banned in Abu Dhabi are similar to the banned items at DXB Aiport. The list includes but is not limited to narcotic drugs, weapons, duplicate or forged currency, goods from boycotted countries, certain medicines and even live animals such as bats and swine. Please check the official airport website for details.
HOW CAN I GET A VAT REFUND AT THE AIRPORT?
Tourists should visit tax refund service counters at the Abu Dhabi Airport for VAT refunds.
That brings an end to our list of things to do at Zayed International Airport. If you are visiting the capital city for the first time with a limited budget, enjoy free things in Abu Dhabi to experience the quintessence of the city.
Are you planning a trip to Dubai? Turn your layover into a mini-adventure with various things to do at Dubai International Airport.
For more information and updates about things to do on a layover at Zayed International Airport, stay tuned to MyBayut.
