Etihad opens luxurious new flagship First Class lounge at Abu Dhabi

Inspired by the world’s most prestigious hotels, private members’ clubs and fine dining establishments, the new space is an attempt by Etihad to showcase its “commitment to providing unparalleled and aspirational hospitality experiences.” The 1,700 m² lounge - described by Etihad as an “ultra-exclusive lifestyle environment” - features 16 zones, including an à la carte restaurant, showcase bar, fitness room, cigar lounge, Six Senses Spa, Style & Shave barbers, nail bar, TV room, secluded relaxation room, prayer room and children’s play room.

Boasting expansive views of the airport, the new facility is open round-the-clock for the exclusive use of guests of Etihad’s The Residence, Etihad First Class, Etihad Guest Exclusive, Etihad Guest Platinum members (plus one guest), Etihad Airways Partner (EAP) airline First Class guests, EAP ‘Invitation only’ members (plus two guests) and EAP equivalent Platinum members (plus one guest). At the à la carte dining area, a team of skilled chefs offer world-class cuisine with menus that change frequently and feature a choice of Arabian, Indian and international cuisine made to order at any time of day. All food is prepared in-house using fresh, locally sourced, seasonal produce. A casual dining and bar snack menu is also available.

The sculptural showcase bar - which is now a main feature of Etihad Airways’ new collection of global lounges, including the recently opened New York and Melbourne facilities - is stocked with 75 premium spirits, champagne and aperitifs. A bespoke cocktail menu has been specially developed in partnership with leading London-based beverage consultancy Fluid Movement. The lounge's signature mocktail drink is the Abu Dhabi, which uses Middle-Eastern flavours such as aromatic cold brew coffee infused with cardamom and sprayed with delicate rose water. All cocktails and mocktails are hand-created by specially trained mixologists.

Meanwhile, the cigar lounge provides a choice of nine carefully selected brands, including Hoyo de Monterray, Cohiba, Bolivar, Montecristo, Arturo Fuente and Romeo Y Julieta. Each has been expertly matched with a number of whiskies and cognacs. Guests of The Residence also have exclusive access to their own private space discreetly located adjacent to the main lounge entrance. The secluded area has a dedicated Savoy-trained Butler, custom-made Poltrona Frau Italian leather armchairs and sofas, its own shower room stocked with a range of Acqua di Parma products, a prayer room, and private dining.

The lounge's Six Senses Spa comprises three treatment rooms with shower facilities. First Class guests can enjoy a complimentary treatment, while guests in The Residence are offered two complimentary treatments. The Relax & Recline area features a large video wall made up of 27 individual screens, soothing sound and lighting, and is furnished with six Poltona Frau leather recliners. The fitness room is equipped with treadmills and cross trainers, as well as male and female washrooms and showers.

In need of some grooming before you travel? The Style & Shave area provides talented barbers offering a series of hair and shave services, including one complimentary express treatment and a shoe shine service. The nail bar provides hair and nail services, including nail art, and one complimentary express treatment.

“Our new First Class Lounge & Spa is the jewel in the crown of our new lounge offerings worldwide and represents the best of our home city of Abu Dhabi," said Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Executive Officer. "It is a showcase of intelligent product design, innovation, ‎and superlative hospitality and service. This is not just a lounge, but the ultimate airline hospitality experience and one which perfectly mirrors Etihad Airways’ evolution into the best airline in the world. “Continuing our journey of innovation, this new dedicated First Class environment demonstrates our on-going commitment to developing world-class products as we continue to reimagine travel.” In our opinion, Etihad just raised the bar when it comes to the airport lounge experience. Judging by the photos and what we have heard, this new Abu Dhabi facility is head and shoulders above other airlines’ offerings. We are looking forward to our next Etihad flight from Abu Dhabi.