Etihad Global Chauffeur Is Back: What Changed on February 26, 2026

Etihad quietly updated its chauffeur terms in early 2026. Effective February 26, 2026, the Etihad Global Chauffeur — the ground transfer service outside the UAE — was reinstated for Business Deluxe passengers. This is a meaningful change for anyone booking Etihad Business Class on certain fare types, and it wasn't announced with particular fanfare, which means a lot of regular Etihad travellers still don't know about it.

What exactly changed?

Before February 26, 2026, Etihad Global Chauffeur outside the UAE was available to The Residence passengers and First Deluxe ticket holders. Business class passengers did not qualify for the global service — only for Etihad UAE Chauffeur within the UAE itself.

From February 26, 2026, Business Deluxe bookings created on or after that date also qualify for Etihad Global Chauffeur outside the UAE. This is confirmed directly on Etihad's official chauffeur service page.

What is Etihad Global Chauffeur?

It's a complimentary ground transfer to or from the airport, outside the UAE, provided for qualifying passengers. On arrival at Abu Dhabi, the pickup point is the Etihad Chauffeur reception next to baggage belt 10. Advance booking is required — at least 12 hours before the flight.

The service must be booked in advance through the Etihad app or website, or by contacting Etihad. Drivers wait up to 25 minutes. If you miss the window, you need to arrange separate ground transport.

Who qualifies for Etihad Global Chauffeur in 2026?

As of February 26, 2026:

• The Residence passengers: included
• First Deluxe tickets: included
• Business Deluxe bookings created on or after February 26, 2026: included
• Business Deluxe Saver Award tickets: also included per Etihad's current terms

What about status benefits?

Depending on Etihad Guest tier and any custom benefits attached to a membership, additional chauffeur eligibility may apply. HON-equivalent status in Etihad Guest (Platinum, Gold) can affect access — worth checking the specific tier benefits if a client has accumulated Etihad status.

Why does the booking date matter?

The February 26, 2026 date is the creation date of the booking, not the travel date. If a Business Deluxe booking was created before February 26, 2026 — even for travel after that date — it may not qualify under the new terms. New bookings created from February 26 onward are the ones eligible. Worth re-checking for any Etihad Business Deluxe bookings currently in place that were made before that date.

If you're arranging an Etihad Business or First Class booking and want to confirm what ground services are included under the current terms, we check this as part of every booking. Reach us at bookmefirstclass.com

Sources: Etihad official chauffeur service page · Aviation24.be · Simple Flying