After a 13-hour flight to Abu Dhabi from Toronto, I was excited to explore the flagship Etihad business class lounge in Abu Dhabi Airport’s Terminal 3. Following security checks after arrival, I took a short walk to gate 35, where I turned left into a narrow hallway leading to gates 36-57, where the lounge entrance was on the left hand side near gate 36.
Additional posts from my whirlwind 8 day tour of Asia:
- Redemption Stories: Maximizing Aeroplan Points and Marriott Bonvoy Rewards for Luxury Travel to Three Countries in Asia
- Lounge Review: Plaza Premium Lounge – Toronto Pearson Airport (International Departures, Terminal 3)
- Flight Review: Etihad Airways Business Class – Toronto (YYZ) to Abu Dhabi (AUH)
As I was flying business class with Etihad from Abu Dhabi to Singapore I received complimentary access to the lounge. My layover afforded me around 4 hours of free time to relax and explore before my next flight. When travelling on Etihad, economy class passengers have the option to buy access to this lounge. The entry fee starts at $120 USD for a four-hour visit.
I was warmly greeted by the staff as I entered the lounge, they verified my boarding pass, and directed me to the front desk for check-in. The lounge was spacious, with attentive staff members ready to assist guests. Near the entrance was a convenient area where you could check in your carry-on or baggage for safekeeping, saving you from lugging it around the lounge.
On the right side of the lounge is a kids playroom, cleverly designed to keep kids entertained with various activities and entertainment options. The lounge itself features an open layout with ample seating, ranging from individual seats to cozy couches and a bar. The central bar was well-staffed, providing prompt service for alcoholic beverages, including champagne and wine.
Kids Playroom
Main bar
Private Room
The dining area was extensive, featuring two separate buffet sections offering a variety of hot and cold food, salads, fruits, and pastries. While the food looked appetizing, I would rate it as satisfactory, not quite reaching the top-notch quality I’ve experienced in other lounges. Nonetheless, the lounge provides a proper dining area with ample seating where guests could enjoy their meals. The attentive staff added to the overall experience, making this lounge stand out from others I’ve visited.
Dinning Section
Another lounge highlight was its business center, with work desks and desktop computers. Additionally, there were individual pods for guests to relax and watch television, personally I found that the seat was a bit too close to the TV for my liking. The lounge also features prayer facilities and a designated smoking area which are at the back of the lounge.
Business Center
TV Pod
Furthermore, the lounge offered two private shower stalls in the washroom. I later discovered a separate shower room area where you could reserve a shower stall with attendant assistance. Unfortunately, I was unaware of this and used the bathroom shower stall instead, which was clean and stocked with fresh towels. I have read excellent reviews of The Six Sense Spa in the lounge, but the spa no longer exists. Instead, it has been replaced with the Shower Room, which was a bit of a disappointment.
Men Washroom
Shower Room
Wrapping it up
Overall, the business class lounge of Etihad in Abu Dhabi’s Terminal 3 provides ample space, attentive staff, and a diverse range of amenities. Though the food might have room for improvement, the overall experience remains valuable and worthwhile for business-class travelers.