Etihad Airways has elevated the luxury airport lounge experience with its flagship First Class Lounge & Spa, setting a new industry benchmark at Abu Dhabi International Airport’s Terminal 3.
Drawing inspiration from elite hotels, exclusive private clubs, and renowned fine dining venues, this exceptional lounge demonstrates Etihad’s unwavering dedication to delivering world-class hospitality and refined service for discerning travelers.
Spanning an impressive 1,700 m², the First Class Lounge & Spa offers 16 thoughtfully curated zones. Guests can enjoy a gourmet à la carte restaurant, a signature bar, a high-end fitness studio, a sophisticated cigar lounge, the acclaimed Six Senses Spa, a Style & Shave barber area, nail bar, a cinema-style TV room, tranquil relaxation spaces, a prayer room, and a vibrant children’s playroom.
With panoramic views of the airfield, this exclusive haven is open 24/7 for guests traveling in The Residence, Etihad First Class, Etihad Guest Exclusive, Etihad Guest Platinum members (plus one companion), Etihad Airways Partner (EAP) airline First Class passengers, EAP ‘Invitation Only’ members (plus two guests), and EAP corresponding Platinum members (plus one guest).
Within the restaurant, a talented culinary team crafts innovative dishes from ever-evolving menus inspired by Arabian, Indian, and international cuisine. Meals are prepared to order at any hour, utilizing organic, local ingredients for exceptional freshness. Guests seeking a more relaxed experience can choose from a select casual dining and bar menu.
The sculptural centerpiece bar—now a hallmark of Etihad's global lounges, including the revitalized New York and Melbourne locations—features a premium collection of 75 spirits, champagnes, and aperitifs.
Etihad’s bespoke cocktail list is curated in partnership with London’s acclaimed Fluid Movement. Signature mocktails, such as the Abu Dhabi, highlight regional flavors—think cold brew coffee infused with cardamom and finished with rose water. All beverages are meticulously crafted by expert mixologists on site.
The cigar lounge offers a handpicked selection of nine prestigious brands, including Hoyo de Monterrey, Cohiba, Bolivar, Montecristo, Arturo Fuente, and Romeo y Julieta. Each cigar is expertly paired with rare whiskies and cognacs for a sophisticated tasting experience.
For guests traveling in The Residence, a private suite awaits near the main lounge entrance. This sanctuary features a dedicated Savoy-trained butler, bespoke Poltrona Frau Italian leather seating, a private shower suite with Acqua di Parma amenities, a prayer room, and an exclusive dining area.
The Six Senses Spa offers three serene treatment rooms with full shower facilities. First Class guests enjoy one complimentary treatment, while those in The Residence receive two, ensuring the ultimate pre-flight relaxation.
The Relax & Recline zone boasts a dramatic video wall of 27 screens, ambient sound and lighting, and six luxurious Poltrona Frau leather recliners. The fitness studio is equipped with the latest treadmills and cross trainers, plus dedicated male and female changing rooms with showers.
For last-minute grooming, the Style & Shave barbers provide expert hair and shaving services, including a complimentary express treatment and shoe shine. The nail bar offers both hair and nail care, including nail art, with one complimentary express service for lounge guests.
"Our First Class Lounge & Spa is the crown jewel of Etihad’s global lounge portfolio and reflects the essence of Abu Dhabi’s luxury hospitality," shares Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Executive Officer. "It stands as a testament to intelligent design, innovation, and exceptional service—delivering a hospitality experience that is truly unrivaled in the airline industry."
"By continuously reimagining the premium travel experience, our dedicated First Class environment reaffirms our ongoing investment in delivering best-in-class products for our guests," adds Baumgartner.
Based on our first-hand experience, Etihad’s First Class Lounge & Spa in Abu Dhabi has set a new global standard for airport lounges. The attention to detail and breadth of amenities place it well ahead of its competitors—making every journey through Abu Dhabi a truly memorable one.
