Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport launches shopping pass for non-travellers, internet abuzz

Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport has launched a special shopping pass for non-travellers, allowing public access to its facilities, a move that has sparked discussion on social media platforms.

The airport — one of the busiest in West Asia — has opened parts of its premises to citizens and residents who do not possess a boarding pass, allowing them to explore without the need to travel.

The initiative, set to run for eight weeks, allows visitors to access retail outlets, dining options and leisure spaces, offering a rare glimpse into areas typically reserved for passengers.

Access, however, follows a structured process. According to a social media post by airport authorities, visitors must register in advance to obtain a digital security pass in PDF format with a QR code. This pass can be scanned at checkpoints and exit points throughout the visit. Once guests leave, they must return the security badges to designated areas.

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Visitors can shop and dine as usual, including access to duty-free outlets. The 8-week initiative allows entry into areas normally restricted to departing passengers, offering a unique behind-the-scenes experience of the airport.

Social media abuzz

The announcement quickly sparked debate online, with theories swirling as several users speculated about the timing of the move.

“Iran turns Emirati airport into a mall. Zayed International Airport in the UAE is opening its doors to everyone! You can now go to the restaurants and duty-free shops without actually travelling. They are trying to save the airport from shutdown due to poor revenues,” MENA Unleashed, a digital publication and analysis platform, said in a post on X.

“Sooooo it is just a shopping mall trying to be a country,” another user wrote.

Others, however, pushed back against such claims.

“And what’s wrong in that? Using all your assets to the maximum in case of a crisis is smart thinking. Not sure why everything is a problem with you?” one user responded.

“Not getting dragged into a crisis they could have easily avoided with common sense is even better,” another added.

Many defend ‘innovative’ strategy

Several users also praised the move, calling it a practical and forward-looking decision.

“In fact, Zayed International's innovative strategy shows visionary leadership at work. Lived here 20+ years. This adaptive pragmatism keeps UAE ahead globally. Wise move,” one user wrote.

“What does Iran have to do with that?” another questioned.

“I find it is intelligent, at least business continues. During COVID, all the hotels in UAE were open to residents for lower price and it allowed them to survive. Good move,” another comment read.

The war has had a significant impact on the UAE, with sustained missile and drone attacks targeting infrastructure. The conflict has also hit the economy hard, slowing tourism, unsettling markets and wiping around $120 billion off stock valuations.