Map of Zayed International Airport UAE – Terminal & Visitor Guide

Zayed International Airport is the principal airport serving Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Its airport code is AUH, and it is one of the UAE’s major international aviation hubs.

The airport was previously known as Abu Dhabi International Airport. It officially adopted the name Zayed International Airport in 2024, so travellers may still see the former name on older booking documents, maps and travel websites.

## Quick Answer

Zayed International Airport is approximately 30 kilometres east of central Abu Dhabi. Passenger flights operate through Terminal A, the airport’s main arrivals, departures and transfer facility. Taxis, buses, private transfers and hire cars connect the airport with central Abu Dhabi, Yas Island and other parts of the emirate.

## Map of Zayed International Airport

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

## Where Is Zayed International Airport?

The airport is on the mainland east of Abu Dhabi Island, close to major roads linking Abu Dhabi with Yas Island, Khalifa City and Dubai.

Its position makes it convenient for travellers visiting attractions outside the traditional city centre. Yas Island, home to Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit, Warner Bros. World and Yas Mall, is closer to the airport than many central Abu Dhabi districts.

The drive between the airport and central Abu Dhabi commonly takes around 30 to 40 minutes, although travel time can increase during busy periods. Travellers continuing to Dubai should allow considerably longer and check current road conditions before departure.

## Terminal A

Terminal A is the principal passenger terminal at Zayed International Airport. It handles arrivals, departures and connecting flights for Etihad Airways and other international carriers.

The terminal contains check-in areas, immigration facilities, baggage collection, airline lounges, shops, restaurants and passenger services. Arrivals and departures occupy different levels, so visitors meeting passengers should confirm the correct collection area before travelling to the airport.

The airport’s older terminal buildings are not the normal destination for current passenger flights. Travellers should follow signs for Terminal A unless their airline provides different instructions.

## Airlines and Flights

Zayed International Airport is the main hub of Etihad Airways and provides connections between Abu Dhabi and destinations across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Australia and North America.

Other airlines also operate scheduled services from the airport. Routes and departure times can change, so passengers should confirm their airline, flight status and check-in requirements before leaving for the terminal.

Passengers travelling to the United States on eligible Etihad flights may use US preclearance facilities at Abu Dhabi. This means immigration and customs formalities may be completed before departure rather than after arrival in the United States.

## Transport to and from the Airport

Official taxis are available outside the arrivals area and provide a straightforward option for reaching Abu Dhabi hotels, business districts and visitor attractions.

Public bus services connect the airport with parts of Abu Dhabi. Bus routes, operating hours and payment arrangements should be checked before travelling, particularly for late-night arrivals.

Private transfers, hotel transfers and hire cars are also available. Travellers collecting a rental vehicle should confirm the company’s desk location and return instructions.

## Visitor Tips

Check that transport drivers know the airport is now called Zayed International Airport.

Use AUH when checking flight information or making bookings.

Follow signs for Terminal A rather than the former terminals.

Allow additional road travel time during peak periods.

Confirm flight status directly with the airline before travelling.

Keep passports and boarding documents accessible for security and immigration checks.