Abu Dhabi is well placed to reach destinations in Africa, Asia and Europe. In fact, 100 capital cities are within a six-hour flight from Abu Dhabi. Most European capitals and major cities have direct flights to Abu Dhabi International Airport (code: AUH), with Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, one of the key providers. The airport is undergoing a dramatic transformation, with a multi-billion Midfield Terminal due to be open in late 2017; you can see its progress quite easily from the E10 highway. The extension will have a maximum capacity of 40 million passengers and will be among the world’s biggest single-capacity buildings. This expansion is linked to Etihad’s own expansion as the company aims to double its fleet of aircraft to 159 by 2020.

At the moment, Terminal 3 is exclusively for Etihad Airways. The airport is well equipped for travellers with disabilities, with a special check-in gate that has direct access from the car park, dedicated lifts and a meet and greet service. This is known as ‘Golden Class’.

Transport from the airport
On leaving the airport you’ll find taxis are freely available, although recent changes means you're likely to have to get one of the black airport taxis which cost a little more than regular taxis. There is an hourly round-the-clock bus service between the airport and Abu Dhabi’s central bus station. It costs just Dhs.3 each way.

Etihad also runs its own private bus service, which is free for those with a boarding pass and makes the journey between Abu Dhabi International Airport and Dubai. Terminals 1 and 2 (Terminal 3 is adjacent to Terminal 1) have short and mid-stay parking, as well as a SKYPARK, while Terminal 2 also has long-stay parking and a free shuttle bus to all other terminals. See abudhabiairport.ae for rates. If you fly with Etihad you can often be eligible for seven days free parking too.

Royal Jet and Al Bateen Airport
You may notice signs to ‘Royal Jet’ around the airport. This is an international luxury flight operator based in Abu Dhabi, with a fleet of private charter planes, including a Boeing Business Jet for VIPs with ostrich skin covered seatbacks and luxury beds. On Abu Dhabi island you’ll also find Al Bateen Executive Airport (code: OMAD), which focuses on private jets. Flying from here can give spectacular views of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.