My experience in Abu Dhabi last Sunday 26 November 2023
Flight AF639 to Paris.
= impossible to use drop off and check in from Etihad which are open 24/7 and allow you to give your luggage anytime
= special counter is open only 3h before departure managed by Etihad ground staff (other airlines do open 4h before departure)
= you can do OLCI but you will not be allowed trough security and border control if dont have a paper boarding pass
= lounge available is only Pearl Lounge wich is insane busy at 7h AM. Overall decent lounge just after security but not comparable to Etihad ones.