Pre clearance at Abhudhabi airport by US homeland security

Question

Me and my wife are going to travel by Etihad to Atlanta from Mumbai via Abhudhabi. I understand pre-clearance is compulsory. We, both being senior citizens and can't walk very fast, how much lay over time is required to alight, get clearance to board US flight.

Thanks

Answer

For your flight from Mumbai to Atlanta via Abu Dhabi, and given that you and your wife are senior citizens who may not be able to walk quickly, it’s important to allow enough time for the pre-clearance process at Abu Dhabi Airport. US Pre-clearance in Abu Dhabi means that passengers will clear US immigration and customs before boarding their flight, which can save you time upon arrival in the United States.

The pre-clearance process at Abu Dhabi International Airport is generally efficient, but it involves several steps that may take some time, especially if you're traveling during peak hours. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to consider:

Pre-clearance process – You'll go through US customs and immigration before you board the flight, which involves passport checks, biometric data collection, and potentially a few questions from US Customs and Border Protection officers. It’s also a good idea to allow some extra time in case of any delays in processing.
Walking distances – While the terminal in Abu Dhabi is modern and generally accessible, the distances from the gate to pre-clearance and from pre-clearance to your departure gate can be significant. It’s advisable to check with your airline for any assistance services like a wheelchair or electric cart if needed.
Time required – Typically, the pre-clearance process in Abu Dhabi takes about 30 to 45 minutes, but this can vary depending on the number of passengers and time of day. To avoid any stress or rush, it’s recommended to allow at least 90 minutes for the layover. This should give you plenty of time to complete the immigration process and reach your departure gate comfortably.

In summary, for a smooth experience, I would recommend having a layover of at least 90 minutes in Abu Dhabi. If possible, you may want to consider requesting assistance at the airport to help with mobility, especially if walking distances are an issue. You can also confirm these details with Etihad Airways ahead of time, as they can provide more specific advice based on your needs and the exact timings of your flights.

Safe travels, and I hope you have a wonderful and comfortable journey!