Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: As the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix approaches, Abu Dhabi Airports is readying itself for one of the busiest periods of its year.
Extra passenger and aircraft traffic are expected at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) between 24th – 28th November, and preparations are being made to ensure all visitors experience a smooth arrival and departure.
With the pioneering Smart Travel system in place, passengers will be able to move through airport processing easily and quickly. First time visitors will be registered for Smart Travel and given a sticker on their passport upon successful completion so that they can then proceed directly to the Smart Travel gates upon departure.
Abu Dhabi Airports has coordinated with airport stakeholders to ensure that all are prepared for race weekend, with additional manpower in place across many departments at peak times, including Customs and the Duty Free and Food & Beverage outlets.
Television screens in the airport will be showing the race live, and Duty Free outlets will be offering special promotions and giveaways.
At Al Bateen Executive Airport fans arriving by private jet for race weekend will have landing charges waived, be given free parking for three days, and can take advantage of special jet cleaning packages.
Speaking about the preparations, Mohammed Al Katheeri, Acting Chief Operations Officer for Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “As F1 week is one of the busiest periods of the year at Abu Dhabi International Airport and Al Bateen Executive Airport, we work very closely with all stakeholders to ensure that these few days pass as smoothly as possible. We aim to provide the best possible service and the warm Arabian hospitality that we are known for, to ensure that all travelers start and finish their trip happy and relaxed.”
Taking place on the 25, 26 and 27 November, the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the Middle East’s biggest international sporting event and the final race of the 2016 F1 season.
About Abu Dhabi Airports:
Abu Dhabi Airports is a public joint-stock company wholly owned by the Abu Dhabi Government. It was incorporated by Amiri Decree number 5, issued on 4 March 2006, to spearhead the development of the Emirate’s aviation infrastructure. In September 2006, Abu Dhabi Airports assumed responsibility for the operation and management of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain International Airports. In 2008, Abu Dhabi Airports added Al Bateen Executive Airport (an exclusive business aviation airport), as well as Sir Bani Yas and Delma Island Airports to its portfolio. These airports are geared to serve the various segments of air travelers, the aviation marketplace, and will help contribute to Abu Dhabi’s development as a destination for both business and leisure tourism.
Currently under way is the multi-billion dollar re-development and expansion of Abu Dhabi International Airport designed to increase the overall capacity of the airport to more than 45 million passengers per year. As part of this redevelopment, a second runway and a third terminal have been completed.
