While Terminal A is a huge improvement over T3 in space and design, I found almost every service aspect lacking today. Outbound security and immigration were bit more slower. The public transport desk in arrivals had long queue with 1 person at the desk. Traffic seemed busier outside ther terminal. Check in lines for EY were very long in Economy during the busy 12-2pm bank.

It was the Pearl Lounge that sutprised me the most. A line of 20 deep at noon after all US/EU arrivals. Lounge was packed till 1.30 running out of cutlery and plates often. The terrace area is the savior for an otherwise dull place. The food was better than Al.Dhabi - though I never saw Al Dhabi so crowded. It seemed everyone had a card that allowed entry and there were many many kids.

EY catering in Y was amazing on both my long and short haul flights into and out of AUH.