Overview & First Impressions
Upon arrival, the experience began with a private chauffeur service, a notable step above standard airport transfers. At the brand-new Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), which is just over a year old and even featured in 'Mission Impossible,' an unexpected touch of luxury awaited: butlers were on hand to assist with luggage, a service rarely seen with other airlines. The airport itself, a modern architectural marvel, offered a glimpse into the elevated journey ahead.
The check-in process for Business and First Class passengers is completely separate from the general public, providing an exclusive and seamless start. This dedicated area boasts ample seating, along with complimentary drinks, juice, tea, and coffee, setting a relaxed tone before even reaching security. The efficiency continued with a dedicated security lane for Business Class travelers, resulting in an exceptionally swift passage – a mere five minutes, even with a generous two-and-a-half-hour buffer before the flight. This unparalleled ground experience earned a perfect five-star rating for its speed and exclusivity, promising an exceptional lounge visit ahead.
The Etihad Business Class Lounge itself is a standout, immediately impressing with its sheer scale. Spanning three floors, it redefines the airport lounge experience. The second floor offers unique amenities such as a game room equipped with table football, air hockey, and gaming consoles, alongside a dedicated family room. Showers are available for refreshment, and a selection of cigars can be purchased for enjoyment within the lounge. The third floor features a magnificent roof lounge and a sophisticated bar, creating an expansive and seemingly endless environment. The main floor also houses a spa, adding another layer of luxury, though time constraints prevented a visit. This comprehensive and well-appointed lounge earned a perfect 10-point rating, solidifying its reputation as one of the best in the world.
Seat, Cabin & IFE
Stepping into the Business Class cabin, the seat, specifically 14K, immediately conveyed a sense of luxury and privacy. Each suite is equipped with a unique door, offering 360 degrees of complete privacy – transforming the seat into a personal room in the sky. The comfort level was exceptional, featuring a massive, super-comfy comforter, a solid butt cushion, well-padded backrest, and a very soft headrest, complemented by an additional plush pillow, all essential for the 15-hour overnight flight. Ample legroom allowed for full extension, with a dedicated leg cubby containing bedding and a leg rest for taller passengers. Practical features included two private windows, wireless charging for mobile devices, multiple storage compartments for personal items, a reading lamp, and a conveniently placed water bottle in the armrest. The seat design and comfort earned a perfect five-star rating.
The in-flight entertainment (IFE) system was equally impressive. A massive, high-quality TV screen offered a vast selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games, including an interactive inflight map and even a 'radio' section. Wi-Fi was available, enhancing connectivity throughout the journey.
The amenity kit was thoughtfully curated for comfort on a long-haul flight, containing earplugs, an eye mask, hand lotion, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and a refreshing facial mist. The lavatory experience also reflected the premium nature of Business Class, feeling high-end with ample headroom and quality hand lotion and soap provided. Upon returning to the seat after freshening up, it had been transformed into a fully-made bed, a welcome service for immediate rest. The combination of a private, comfortable seat, comprehensive entertainment, and well-appointed amenities ensured a restful and enjoyable flight experience.
Food, Drinks & Service
The dining experience in Etihad Business Class is a highlight, featuring an à la carte menu that allows passengers to order meals at any time during the flight. This flexibility is a significant advantage, especially on long overnight journeys. The menu itself is extensive, starting with an 'All Day' selection including options like cereal, a yogurt dish with fruit, a pastry crown, steak sandwich, omelette, and assorted Samosas. For dinner, starters such as Arabic Maay, Pata, and soup were offered, followed by main courses like short ribs, sea bass, chicken, and Paneer Kathi. Dessert options included chocolate fondue, blueberry cake, fresh fruit, and ice cream.
The quality of the food was exceptional. The Arabic Maay appetizer, a delightful variety of dips and salads with warm bread, was a flavorful start. The main course of short ribs was described as 'unbelievable,' perfectly cooked and rich in taste. For dessert, the ice cream was a refreshing choice. A truly memorable moment was the surprise personalized chocolate and cherry cake, a thoughtful gesture that underscored the attentive and personalized service. All meals were served with metal cutlery, adding to the premium feel.
Breakfast was equally impressive, with a juicy steak sandwich, melted cheese, and a caramelized sauce, accompanied by chips. The 'orange sparkler' drink, a blend of orange soda and lemonade, was a unique and tasty alternative to standard orange juice. A second round of breakfast included a fresh fruit platter and a hazelnut pastry crown with strawberry, orange zest, and vanilla ice cream, described as 'perfect' and a '10.' The wine list was comprehensive, featuring red, white, fortified, and dessert wines from various regions, alongside a selection of spirits, cocktails, and beers. The prompt service, including champagne offered within minutes of boarding, and the overall attentiveness of the cabin crew, contributed to a consistently high-quality dining experience, earning a perfect 10-point rating for the meal service.
