– The only U.S. Preclearance facility in the Middle East and Asia
– Passengers on all direct Etihad Airways (EY) flights to the U.S. are now pre-cleared for U.S. immigration before departure from Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – October 31, 2024: Abu Dhabi Airports has officially announced the full transition of the new state-of-the-art U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility to Zayed International Airport (AUH). This new Preclearance facility allows passengers to complete all U.S. immigration, customs, and agriculture inspections before leaving Abu Dhabi, eliminating long queues upon arrival in the United States.
In collaboration with U.S. CBP, the facility underwent a thorough vetting process to ensure compliance with all protocols and readiness of systems, equipment, and personnel. The advanced facility features cutting-edge biometric technology, including facial recognition devices at designated boarding gates, further enhancing both security and efficiency.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, stated, “We extend our sincere appreciation to our team and our partners at U.S. Customs and Border Protection for their exemplary teamwork. This facility strengthens our ambition to be a leading travel hub, offering passengers a distinctive travel experience that is unparalleled in our region. We are proud to have established the first and only U.S. Preclearance facility in the area, reaffirming our commitment to delivering world-class services and convenience to our passengers.”
Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, added, “This milestone reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as the most convenient gateway to the U.S. for travelers from the Middle East, Indian subcontinent, and Asia. With all Etihad flights now pre-clearing in Abu Dhabi, our guests can bypass arrival queues and enjoy seamless transfers with minimal connection times through our partner airlines. Our guests consistently value the efficiency and security of clearing customs before arriving in the U.S., making Etihad their preferred choice.”
The unveiling of the new U.S. CBP facility coincides with the first anniversary celebrations of Zayed International Airport, further cementing its status as a leading global aviation hub. The airport remains dedicated to prioritizing passenger convenience and operational excellence, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for all.
