UAE opens new US preclearance facility at Abu Dhabi Airport
Passengers can now complete immigration checks before departure
Abu Dhabi Airports has officially opened its new US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) preclearance facility at Zayed International Airport (AUH).
Friday’s ribbon-cutting event was attended by Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports; US Ambassador Martina Strong; Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves; and Judson Murdock, CBP Deputy Executive Assistant Commissioner.
“This facility represents another significant step toward our vision of becoming a leading global aviation hub,” remarked Elena Sorlini during the event.
Enhancing passenger convenience
The facility, operational since 9 October, allows passengers on Etihad Airways flights to the United States to complete immigration, customs, and agriculture inspections before departing Abu Dhabi. This preclearance ensures travellers arrive in the US as domestic passengers, bypassing lengthy queues.
According to Jamil Musleh, CBP Port Director, the facility has already processed around 43,000 passengers since its launch, aided by advanced technologies like facial comparison and the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app.
As we celebrate Zayed International Airport's (AUH) incredible first anniversary, we are delighted to announce another significant achievement – the official opening of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility at AUH. @USAinUAE pic.twitter.com/PfLopYQ92l
— AD_AIRPORTS (@ad_airports) November 15, 2024
Key Features
First in the Region: The Zayed International Airport hosts the only US preclearance facility in the Middle East and Asia.
Biometric Advancements: Facial recognition and streamlined processes enhance security and efficiency.
Premium Lounges: From December 2024, a new premium lounge will open in the preclearance zone, complementing the existing Business and First-class lounges.
How to preclear US Immigration in Abu Dhabi
Passengers flying to the United States can benefit from the streamlined preclearance process at Zayed International Airport. To ensure a smooth experience, travellers are advised to follow these steps:
- Check-in Requirements: Arrive at Terminal A and check in for your flight at least four hours prior to departure.
- Timing for Preclearance Facility Access: Economy class travellers should proceed to the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility at least two hours before their flight. Travellers in Business, First, or The Residence can access the facility 90 minutes before departure.
- Preclearance Closure: The US CBP Preclearance facility closes one hour before flight departure, so punctuality is crucial to avoid delays.
Strengthening UAE-US ties
US Ambassador to UAE Martina Strong highlighted the facility's strategic importance: “Travellers to the United States can now expedite their journey in this state-of-the-art facility. This milestone reflects our strong partnership and growing people-to-people ties.”
Judson Murdock echoed the sentiment, emphasising the role of the facility in fostering global connectivity: “This relationship benefits not just the UAE and the US but promotes peace and prosperity in the international community.”
Etihad Airways and the US market
Etihad Airways, which operates 35 weekly flights to key US cities including New York, Chicago, Boston, and Washington DC, has integrated preclearance into its operations.
“Our guests value the efficiency and security of clearing US customs before arriving. This facility underscores Abu Dhabi’s role as a gateway to the United States,” said Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad Airways CEO.
With the facility marking the first anniversary of Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi Airports continues to prioritise passenger convenience. The integration of advanced technology, coupled with seamless processes, cements Abu Dhabi's position as a premier global aviation hub.
Expanded Global Entry
The US CBP facility at Zayed International Airport also offers a Global Entry partnership with the UAE. This programme allows pre-approved UAE citizens to expedite their entry into the United States, streamlining customs and immigration procedures for frequent travellers.