Experience the Etihad Airways First Class Lounge – Abu Dhabi (AUH)

The home of Etihad Airways in Abu Dhabi (AUH) features several lounges, including Etihad’s incredible First Class Lounge which consists of a dining room, two bars, several relaxation areas, shower rooms, and more.

Lounge Information

Airline: Etihad Airways (EY)
Lounge Type: First Class Lounge
Location: Abu Dhabi (AUH)
Date: July 2023

Experience the EY First Class Lounge

The lounge featured here is Etihad Airways’ First Class Lounge in the old terminal. In November 2023, the new terminal at Abu Dhabi finally opened and airline operations moved there; Etihad Airways opened new lounges and moved flights from the old terminals to their new home.

I last flew through Abu Dhabi in July 2023 and therefore experienced the now old, but still incredible, lounge; which was never really that busy given Etihad Airways doesn’t operate a ton of flights featuring a First Class cabin.

Etihad Airways First Class Check-in

Upon arrival at the old terminal, First and Business Class guests had a separate entrance into the airport, leading to a private check-in area and dedicated immigration.

I already had my boarding pass issued in London, all the way to New Delhi, so I skipped the check-in experience.

Etihad Airways First Class Lounge Access

The EY First Class Lounge is located right after immigration and security.

Those flying in Etihad Airways First Class as well as Etihad Guest Platinum Members are able to access and enjoy the lounge.

I was flying in Business Class to New Delhi (DEL) but was able to access the First Class Lounge as I had arrived in The Residence a day prior from London-Heathrow (LHR). Even though the flight was the day before, my connection was less than 24 hours so they granted me access based on my arriving flight.

Etihad Airways First Class Lounge

The moment you step inside the lounge, you’ll be warmly welcomed and offered something to drink. If you’d like to grab a bite to eat, you can select something from the extensive menu.

The First Class Lounge is beautiful – upon entering the lounge, you’d find a service desk with Etihad agents ready to help, the first bar, and a massive dining room (which was split in half by a dedicated, enclosed smoking section).

The lounge features a tiny buffet section, but the idea is that you take a seat and order something freshly prepared, from the menu.

The second bar is located behind the main dining area towards the back of the lounge, next to the massive windows, along with some more seats.

As you make your way throughout the lounge, you’ll find another section featuring more comfortable seating as well as a refreshments area.

You’ll never have to lift a finger as staff are constantly roaming around – my drink of choice was already being prepared before I even decided in what area I’d be relaxing.

The lounge has a few fully enclosed private rooms for those flying in The Residence.

If you want to have a rest, there is a really cool galactic-style relaxation section with super comfy reclining seats.

Near the entrance of the lounge, you’ll find bathrooms and shower rooms – the lounge used to have Spa services, but those were cut a few years ago.

I didn’t enjoy a shower this time in the lounge as I had arrived directly from my hotel, however these shower rooms are a great amenity – especially after a long flight.

EY First Class Lounge Menu

I wasn’t particularly hungry, but decided to order a few items from the extensive menu, which composed of a variety of appetizers, soups, main dishes, and dessert, which I skipped this time, but the choices sounded delicious.

Alcoholic beverages are also available.

EY First Class Lounge Dining

Whenever I’m in the Middle East, I almost always order the Arabic Mezze as it’s absolutely mouthwateringly delicious. I followed that up with the Lentil Soup which was equally tasty.

For my beverages, I went with the Lemon & Mint Juice and Moroccan Mint Tea.

Throughout the meal, the staff constantly checked to see if I needed anything else; the service was truly phenomenal.

The Final Note

I really enjoyed my time in the lounge and have often visited it in the past and am a bit sad that it is now closed as the new EY First Class Lounge apparently doesn’t feature quite as many amenities.

Spending a little over an hour here, I was able to grab a bite to eat and relax while waiting for my Etihad Airbus A350-1000 Business Class flight to New Delhi (DEL), which I was really excited about since it featured Etihad’s new Business Class product.

I plan on visiting the new Etihad First Class Lounge in the near future, so keep an eye out for Etihad’s new First Class ground experience at their home in Abu Dhabi.