Posted inTransport

Abu Dhabi airport operator prepares for F1 influx

Staffing increased as airport readies itself for rush of F1-related traffic in run up to Abu Dhabi F1 race on Nov 29

Force Indias Mexican driver Sergio Perez drives during the qualifying session at the Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi in 2014. (AFP/Getty Images)
Force Indias Mexican driver Sergio Perez drives during the qualifying session at the Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi in 2014. (AFP/Getty Images)

Abu Dhabi International Airport is getting ready to welcome passengers and special cargo arriving ahead of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which takes place later this month.

The airport operator said that staffing has been increased to facilitate the influx of F1-related traffic, and special arrangements have been made to accommodate the arrival of race cars and equipment.

Abu Dhabi Airports, in cooperation with its airport partners from Etihad Airport Services, police, customs and immigration, said in a statement that it has implemented a comprehensive plan ensuring all key areas of operations are prepared.

This includes special provisions for loading, fueling and airplane parking, as well asworking with the airside operations, security, cargo, and hospitality, to accommodate the increase in traffic during the event.

Over the race weekend, Abu Dhabi International Airport will increase the number of cargo flights during non-peak hours, arrange alternative parking to facilitate the F1 freighters, allocate dedicated areas for cargo shipment staging and offloading, and install mobile counters to assist F1 passengers for visit visa requests and information.

Ahmed Al Haddabi, chief operations officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “We are excited to welcome the world to Abu Dhabi through Abu Dhabi International Airport. Many of our staff members have volunteered to work over the weekend to ensure we provide the best possible service and the warm Arabian hospitality that we are known for.”

He said passengers travelling through Abu Dhabi International Airport over that weekend will also enjoy special F1 related exhibits, promotions and activities, and travellers in transit will be able to watch the race live on big screens in Terminals 1 & 3.

Taking place on the November 27, 28 and 29, the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the Middle East’s biggest international sporting event and the final race of the 2015 F1 season.

Follow us on

Author