Etihad to elevate premium ground experience with new generation of global lounges
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has unveiled the next generation of its global lounge experience, beginning with a transformed London Heathrow Lounge in summer 2027 and marking the start of a wider expansion of Etihad lounges around the world.
Launch location:
London Heathrow, summer 2027 — the first lounge to showcase Etihad’s new Beyond Borders design language.
Beyond Borders concept:
A unified design and service identity across lounges, aircraft, dining, wellbeing, and connectivity, creating a seamless Etihad journey.
Investment scale:
Part of Etihad’s US$20 billion program, including a US$1 billion fleet retrofit.
Design inspiration:
“From sand to superstructure” — rooted in Abu Dhabi’s natural landscape and architecture, blending textures, lighting, and materials.
Guest experience:
- Dedicated spaces for Business and First Class travelers
- Private suites for The Residence guests
- New bar and central feature previewed at Arabian Travel Market
Expansion:
Heathrow is just the beginning — the design language will extend to lounges across Etihad’s global network.
Leadership vision:
Arik De, Chief Revenue & Commercial Officer, emphasized consistency and warmth of Abu Dhabi hospitality across all touchpoints.
Strategic impact:
This move positions Etihad to compete more aggressively in the premium travel segment, offering a consistent luxury identity from airport lounge to aircraft cabin. It also strengthens Abu Dhabi’s image as a hub of hospitality and design innovation.
