Zayed International Airport (AUH) Overview

Zayed International Airport, formerly known as Abu Dhabi International Airport, is one of the most prominent aviation hubs in the Middle East. Located approximately 30 kilometers east of Abu Dhabi city center, the airport serves as a major gateway for international travel to and from the United Arab Emirates. Opened in 1982, Zayed International Airport has grown significantly, offering state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional passenger services. The airport boasts a modern infrastructure, with several terminals designed for seamless passenger flow and comfort. It is well-known for its innovative architecture and efficient operations, handling millions of travelers annually.

Zayed International Airport is a primary base for Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the UAE, and welcomes numerous international airlines. The airport is renowned for its award-winning lounges, duty-free shopping, and diverse dining options, making it a favored stopover for global travelers. With its strategic location, AUH connects passengers to destinations across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, positioning itself as a key player in international air traffic.

Air Traffic Ranking

• Among the busiest airports in the Middle East, consistently ranked within the top 20 for passenger traffic in the region.
• Globally, Zayed International Airport is recognized among the top 100 busiest airports by passenger numbers.

Top Airlines Operating at Zayed International Airport

• Etihad Airways
• Emirates
• Qatar Airways
• British Airways
• Lufthansa
• Singapore Airlines

Local Time Zone

Gulf Standard Time (GST), UTC +4

Distance from Airport to City Center

Zayed International Airport is located about 30 km (19 miles) east of central Abu Dhabi.

Nearby Areas and Closest City Centers

• Abu Dhabi City Center (30 km)
• Khalifa City (10 km)
• Yas Island (10 km)
• Al Raha Beach (13 km)
• Masdar City (5 km)

Transportation Methods to Abu Dhabi City Center

• Airport taxis: Available 24/7 at the arrivals area
• Public buses: Routes A1 and A2 connect the airport to the city center and key destinations
• Car rentals: Multiple international and local agencies operate onsite
• Private transfers and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem
• Hotel shuttles: Offered by select hotels in Abu Dhabi

Terminal Information

• Terminal A: Main international flights hub, home to Etihad Airways and many partner airlines.
• Terminal 1: International carriers including Lufthansa, British Airways, Singapore Airlines, and others.
• Terminal 2: Primarily serves regional and low-cost carriers.

Official Airport Website

https://www.auh.ae/

Air Passenger Rights at Zayed International Airport

If your flight from Zayed International Airport (AUH) is delayed or cancelled, you may be entitled to compensation under European Regulation EC 261/2004 (also known as EU 261). This regulation applies if your flight departs from an EU country or if you are flying to the EU on a European airline. For example, if you are flying from Abu Dhabi to London with British Airways or Lufthansa, you could be eligible for compensation if your flight is delayed by more than 3 hours or cancelled at short notice.

EC 261 ensures that air passengers are protected in case of long delays, cancellations, or denied boarding. If your flight from AUH to the EU is delayed for three hours or more, or cancelled without sufficient notice, you may claim compensation. The amount depends on the flight distance:

• Up to 1,500 km: €250 per passenger
• 1,500 km to 3,500 km: €400 per passenger
• More than 3,500 km: €600 per passenger

For flights originating outside the EU, such as from Zayed International Airport, you are covered by EU 261 only if you are flying to an EU country with an EU-based airline. If you are traveling with a non-EU carrier, EU 261 may not apply for flights departing from Abu Dhabi.

In the event of a significant delay or cancellation, you should keep your travel documents, note the reason provided by the airline, and request written confirmation of the delay or cancellation. You may also be eligible for care and assistance, such as meals, refreshments, and hotel accommodation if necessary.

Passengers flying from Zayed International Airport to the UK or other EU countries with airlines like British Airways, Lufthansa, or Etihad Airways (on EU-bound routes) should check their eligibility for compensation under EC 261/EU 261 in case of delays or cancellations.

How Voos Can Assist with Your Compensation Claim

If your flight from Zayed International Airport was delayed or cancelled, Voos can review your claim and, if eligible, pursue it with the airline on your behalf. Our service is risk-free – fees are only charged if your claim is successful. Depending on your specific case, compensation of up to €600 per person may be possible.

• Gather your flight number and booking details
• Keep your boarding pass or e-ticket
• Document communications with the airline
• Check your eligibility for compensation today

Don’t miss your chance to claim the compensation you deserve after flight disruptions at Zayed International Airport. Voos specializes in handling compensation claims for delayed and cancelled flights, ensuring passengers receive the maximum amount allowed under EU 261 and EC 261 regulations.