Gate 33

“Anyone seen my boarding pass?” a frantic voice cut through the air here at Gate 33. This is not an uncommon occurrence at Abu Dhabi International Airport, a hub bustling with travelers from all corners of the globe. Gate 33 itself is a relatively recent addition to the airport, part of the newer Terminal 3. This terminal is largely dedicated to Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, and its impressive fleet of Airbus A380s. Before Terminal 3, Gate 33 didn’t exist. The older terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, handled the airport’s traffic. Terminal 1, built back in 1974, was the original gateway to Abu Dhabi. It even had a unique circular gate area. Terminal 2, smaller and separate, served budget airlines. Today, however, these two terminals are no longer operational. Terminal A, also known as the Midfield Terminal, is the newest and most advanced addition to Abu Dhabi International Airport, leaving Terminal 3 as a standby facility. While at Gate 33, waiting for your flight, you might want to grab a bite to eat. If you have some time to kill, there’s plenty to explore at the airport. Shops abound with international and local brands, offering everything from fragrances to souvenirs. And if luxury is your thing, the airport lounges provide a relaxing oasis, complete with complimentary snacks, beverages, and even shower facilities. Just be sure to factor in the distance to the restrooms, as one traveler noted, they can be a bit of a trek from Gate 33.