Abu Dhabi Airports has announced the full transition of a new state-of-the-art preclearance facility to Zayed International Airport, eliminating the need for lengthy queues for all passengers upon arrival in the US from Abu Dhabi, ensuring a smooth and fast-tracked journey.

The United States Customs and Border Protection (US CBP) facility underwent an extensive and thorough vetting process confirming all protocols, and readiness of systems, equipment and personnel, a statement said.

The facility will allow passengers to complete all US immigration, customs, and agriculture inspections before departing from Zayed International Airport.

The facility features a cutting-edge biometric technology platform, including facial comparison capture devices at dedicated CBP boarding gates, along with corresponding agent display devices, further enhancing security and efficiency.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “On behalf of Abu Dhabi Airports, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to our team and our partners at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for their exemplary and collaborative teamwork.

“This facility strengthens our ambition to be a leading travel hub, offering passengers a distinctive travel experience that is unparalleled in our region.

“We are incredibly proud to have completed the transition of the new U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility to Zayed International Airport.

“This is a unique offering that allows us to stand out in the region as the first and only US Preclearance and reaffirms our commitment to delivering world-class services and convenience to our passengers.”

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “This milestone reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as the most convenient gateway to the United States for travellers from across the Middle East, Indian subcontinent and Asia, and we are proud to offer our guests this unparalleled experience.

“With all Etihad flights now pre-clearing in Abu Dhabi, our guests can bypass arrival queues and, if connecting within the US, enjoy seamless transfers with minimal connection times through our partner airlines.

“Our guests consistently tell us they value the efficiency and security that clearing customs before they arrive in the US affords them, and this is one of the many reasons they choose Etihad.

“We are grateful to our partners at Abu Dhabi Airports and US Customs and Border Protection who have enabled the opening of Zayed International Airport’s new US Preclearance facility,” he continued.” - TradeArabia News Service