Scotiabank Gold American Express® CardScotiabank Gold American Express® CardEarn up to 50,000 bonus Scene+ points + no annual fee in your first year

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge – Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH)

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge – Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH)

Note8.8/10

Airport
AUH
Share

After several years of postponement, the opening of the new Terminal A at Abu Dhabi International Airport took place in November 2023. I was present during the opening week, following the Dubai Airshow 2023, and so was able to visit the new facilities, including the new Etihad Business lounge.

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Access

First, a few words about this new Terminal A at Abu Dhabi Airport, replacing Terminals 1 and 3. This one is magnificent. Construction began in 2012, intending to handle up to 45 million passengers a year (doubling the previous capacity).

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-01
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-03
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-04

The terminal was due to open in 2017, but the launch has been delayed to 2019. That year, the terminal was ready to open. However, after contractual problems with the operator – and the COVID-19 pandemic – it wasn’t until late 2023 that the facility could finally welcome the public. You may have seen it in the Mission Impossible movie, released the same year!

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-05

Travelling in business class with Etihad, thanks to my Aeroplan points, I go to the check-in area dedicated to business class passengers.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-06
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-10

Check-in is a breeze, as is passing through security (unlike other airports that simply offer a priority security line, here there’s a dedicated security area for business-class passengers).

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-09

A few shots from inside Terminal A:

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-13
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-12

Etihad’s lounges (First and Business Class) are located between Piers C and D. First; we pass the First Class lounge:

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-14

Then the Etihad Spa (closed at the time of my visit):

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-15

Finally, we arrive at the new Etihad Business Lounge near gate C27.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Etihad Business Lounge AUH

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Entrance

There are several reception desks. Etihad agents are proactive, however, and will be waiting for you next to the automated entry systems at the Etihad Business Lounge.

Access to the new Etihad Business Lounge is for:

  • Passengers travelling in Business or First Class
  • Etihad Guest Elite Members
  • Passengers travelling in economy class with Etihad (access subject to charge)
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-16

This Etihad Business lounge is spread over three floors, linked by escalators and elevators.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-55

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – First floor (3rd)

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Liwan Global Dining

On the second floor of the new Etihad Business Lounge (actually the 3rd floor of Terminal A), you first enter the buffet area known as Liwan Global Dining.

The entire space is designed in Arabic style. However, I found it lacking in charm and seemed – already – dated. It feels like a space from 2015-2017, not 2023, more like a canteen than a lounge.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-47
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-46
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-45
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-49
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-50

In the center of this space is a bar where you can enjoy any alcoholic or non-alcoholic cocktail or a glass of wine.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-44

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Buffet

The buffet in the new Etihad Business Lounge is divided into 3 sections:

  • Salad bar in the middle
  • International cuisine on the left (including a cheese bar)
  • Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine on the right (including a dessert bar)
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-51
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-25

Here are all the photos of the dishes offered in this new Etihad Business Lounge:

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Second floor (4th)

The second floor of the Etihad Business Lounge is actually on the 4th floor of Terminal A. This is the lounge’s most significant space, divided into several distinct areas.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-56
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-57
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-58
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-60
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-61

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Gaming room

A games room offers a soccer table, a field hockey table and video games.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-59

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Showers

On the second floor, you’ll find 18 shower suites available by reservation.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-62
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-63

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Family Room

Also, this new Etihad Business Lounge has a vast and colourful room dedicated to families and little ones.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-64
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-65

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – West Study

Next to the family room, you’ll find a relaxation area called West Study, with a small buffet offering drinks and chips.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-67
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-66

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Smoking area

An area on this second floor is reserved for smokers (and cigar aficionados).

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-68

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Other areas

Last but not least, further rest and buffet areas are on the right-hand side of the second floor.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-69
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-70
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-71

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Top floor

The top floor of the lounge was my favourite. A magnificent bar and a buffet area featuring almost everything you’d find on the second floor. My advice is to head straight for the top floor to get the feel of a lounge.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-72

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Constellation bar and buffet

The Constellation bar in the new Etihad Business Lounge is the centrepiece of the lounge.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-73
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-74

Around it, you’ll find a variety of seats for seating or dining.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-81
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-82

And you can order your favourite cocktail (including my Espresso Martini).

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-83

The buffet offers a varied choice of hot and cold dishes.

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-78
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-75
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-77

Etihad Business Lounge | Terminal A – Relaxation area

Finally, at the very end of the third floor of this new Etihad Business Lounge, you’ll find a relaxation area called the « Roof Lounge. »

Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-80
Review: New Etihad Business Lounge - Abu Dhabi Terminal A (AUH) - Nouvel aéroport Terminal A-79

Bottom Line

The Etihad Business Lounge is a stunning addition to Abu Dhabi Airport’s new Terminal A. While the second floor’s layout leaves something to be desired, in my opinion (giving the impression of a school refectory), the second and third floors are of excellent quality.

If you’re passing through this new Etihad Business Lounge, I suggest you head straight to the second floor to reserve your shower cubicle, then to the third floor for dinner and a drink at the bar!

Need access to airport lounges? Check our detailed guide.

Would you like to book a flight with Etihad? Browse Etihad’s best offers.

Annual fee
$799
Our valuation
$1,700
Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$1,700Total$1,700Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Welcome offer
Up to 100,000 points
Apply Now

on American Express's website

Apply with confidence — no impact on your credit scoreApply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).

Terms of the offer

  • Unlock special experiences with the newly designed metal Platinum Card
  • New Platinum® Cardmembers, earn 25,000 Welcome Bonus Membership Rewards® points when you charge $2,000 in purchases to your Card in the first three months of Cardmembership
  • Earn 3 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining in Canada, 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel, and 1 point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
  • You will have access to a $200 CAD Annual Travel Credit to use towards any single travel booking of $200 or more charged to your Platinum Card and made on www.americanexpress.ca/travel or through Platinum Card® Travel Service
  • Take full advantage of the American Express Global Lounge Collection which unlocks access to over 1200 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience
  • Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $550 USD at over 1,000 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels & Resorts.
  • Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy access to special events and unique opportunities
  • Enjoy premium benefits at the Toronto Pearson Airport including security bypass, complimentary valet car service and discount car care and parking
  • You will also have access to many leading hotel and car rental companies’ loyalty programs. Our partners include Marriott International, Hilton Hotels and Resorts®, Radisson Hotel Group Hotels and Resorts, Hertz® and Avis®
  • As a Charge Card, the balance must always be paid in full each month. 30% annual interest rate applies to balances not paid in full. Payments must be received and processed by the date of the next monthly statement to avoid interest charges
  American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details, current product information and Terms and Conditions, click the Apply now link. Conditions Apply

The Platinum Card® is the best premium card in Canada for travellers.

With this welcome offer, you can earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points:

  • 70,000 points after charging $10,000 to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
  • 30,000 points when you make a purchase between the 15th and 17th month after your Cardmembership begins

With this Card, you get:

  • 2 points per $1 on eligible dining and delivery purchases in Canada
  • 2 points per dollar on eligible travel purchases charged to the Card
  • 1 point per $1 on all other purchases charged to the Card

You can use your Membership Rewards® points in many ways:

  • Transfer points to airline partners: Aeroplan, Avios (British Airways / Qatar Airways), Flying Blue, Delta SkyMiles, etc.
  • Transfer points to hotel partners, including Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy
  • Redeem points for statement credits to offset any travel purchase charged to your Card (1,000 points = $10)
  • Redeem points for statement credits towards other purchases (1,000 points = $10)
  • And more!

For example, with this welcome offer, if you decide to transfer your Membership Rewards® points to a partner loyalty program, you could earn up to:

  • 100,000 Aeroplan points
  • 100,000 Avios
  • 100,000 Flying Blue Miles
  • 120,000 Marriott Bonvoy points

With this card, you also have advantages for your travels:

  • $200 Annual Travel Credit
  • An annual meal credit of $200
  • A $100 statement credit for NEXUS membership
  • Complimentary access for you and one additional guest to more than 1,550 airport lounges in over 140 countries
  • Hilton Honors Gold status
  • Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status
  • Access to the Fine Hotels + Resorts program

Last but not least, The Platinum Card® offers a wide range of insurance coverage: rental car theft and damage, $500,000 travel accident, emergency medical expenses (out-of-province or out-of-country), lost or stolen baggage, flight delays and misdirected baggage, hotel or motel burglary, Purchase Protection, Purchase Security.

Like all American Express Canada Cards, there is no minimum income requirement.

Annual fee

Primary card$799
Additional card$250

Annual income required

Individual$0
Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 2xTravel
  • 2xRestaurants
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,482
2nd Year Value$470

Transfer partners

  • AeroplanAirline
  • British Airways ClubAirline
  • Cathay Asia MilesAirline
  • Etihad GuestAirline
  • Flying BlueAirline
  • Hilton HonorsHotel
  • Marriott BonvoyHotel

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$400
Travel creditsIncluded

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Trip CancellationUp to $2,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $1,000
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days

Go further with airport VIP lounges

To access VIP lounges without paying $50 each time, check our complete guide on free airport lounge access and our best credit cards for airport VIP lounges ranking, updated monthly by the Milesopedia team.

Our featured card

Annual fee
$150
Our valuation
$350
Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Welcome offer
Up to 35,000 points
Ends Nov 1, 2026
Apply Now

on Scotiabank's website

With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card +* CardMC, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.

Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.

With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.

These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:

  • No fees for foreign currency transactions
  • 6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
  • Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
  • Visa Infinite* Concierge Services

We have named this credit card the Best Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Annual fee

Primary card$150
Additional card$50

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

0%

Earning rate

  • 2xGroceries
  • 2xRestaurants
  • 2xTransit
  • 2xEntertainment
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$650
2nd Year Value$397

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $1,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

Our editorial integrity

Our reviews and rankings are based on an objective assessment. Advertisers do not influence our content. We may receive compensation through some links; our analysis and opinions remain independent.