Abu Dhabi Airports Unveils New US Customs And Border Protection Facility At Zayed International Airport

Abu Dhabi Airports has successfully transitioned the new United States Customs and Border Protection (US CBP) facility to Zayed International Airport (AUH). This Preclearance facility allows passengers to complete all US immigration, customs, and agriculture inspections before departing from Abu Dhabi. It aims to provide a smoother journey for travellers heading to the United States by eliminating long queues upon arrival.

The facility incorporates advanced biometric technology, including facial comparison capture devices at dedicated CBP boarding gates. This technology, along with agent display devices, enhances both security and efficiency. The transition involved close collaboration with US CBP and a comprehensive vetting process to ensure that all systems, equipment, and personnel were ready.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, expressed gratitude towards the team and partners at US CBP for their collaborative efforts. She stated, "On behalf of Abu Dhabi Airports, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to our team and our partners at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for their exemplary and collaborative teamwork." Sorlini highlighted the facility's role in positioning Abu Dhabi as a leading travel hub offering unique travel experiences.

Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, emphasised the significance of this development for travellers from the Middle East, Indian subcontinent, and Asia. He remarked that it establishes Abu Dhabi as the most convenient gateway to the US. Neves said, "This milestone reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as the most convenient gateway to the United States for travellers from across the Middle East, Indian subcontinent and Asia."

With all Etihad flights now pre-clearing in Abu Dhabi, passengers can bypass arrival queues in the US. This also facilitates seamless transfers with minimal connection times through partner airlines if connecting within the US. Neves added that guests value this efficiency and security provided by clearing customs before arriving in the US.

The opening of this facility was made possible through cooperation between Abu Dhabi Airports and US Customs and Border Protection. Neves acknowledged their contribution by stating: "We are grateful to our partners at Abu Dhabi Airports and US Customs and Border Protection who have enabled the opening of Zayed International Airport’s new US Preclearance facility."

This initiative underscores Abu Dhabi's commitment to delivering world-class services while enhancing convenience for passengers. The new Preclearance facility not only strengthens its position as a prominent travel hub but also offers an unmatched experience in the region.

With inputs from WAM