Imagine finishing a long international flight and finding a private car waiting for you — no taxi lines, no fumbling with ride-share apps, no stress. For many senior travelers, that kind of convenience is priceless. Which leads to a common question: “Does Etihad provide chauffeur service for Business Class?”
The short answer: Not anymore. Etihad Airways once offered complimentary chauffeur service for Business Class and First Class passengers, but this perk has now been phased out. Let’s look at what’s changed, what’s still included, and what seniors can do to enjoy smooth transfers. If you’d like quick answers for your exact route, call (877)764-3622 before booking.
For years, Etihad was known for its complimentary chauffeur service, offered in multiple cities worldwide. However, in recent years, Etihad has ended this benefit for most Business Class passengers.
Here’s the current situation:
Chauffeur service is no longer automatically included with Business Class tickets.
In select airports like Abu Dhabi, you may be able to book chauffeur transfers as a paid add-on.
Partner transfer services may also be available, but they are not free.
So, while Etihad no longer provides complimentary chauffeurs, seniors still have options to arrange similar services.
Even without the chauffeur perk, Etihad Business Class offers plenty to make your journey stress-free:
Priority check-in and boarding — skip long lines.
Access to Etihad lounges or partner lounges worldwide.
Fully flat bed seating with premium bedding.
Fine dining service with beverages.
Generous baggage allowances and attentive cabin crew.
For seniors, these inclusions already go a long way toward reducing travel fatigue.
If a chauffeur-style transfer is important, here are practical alternatives:
Etihad sometimes offers pre-arranged chauffeur services in Abu Dhabi and select hubs, available for a fee.
Airports often provide wheelchair assistance, buggy rides, and priority help for seniors.
Many hotels in Abu Dhabi, New York, or London offer private pick-up services that feel just like a chauffeur.
➡️ Real-world example: A senior traveler shared how booking a chauffeur add-on in Abu Dhabi made her arrival simple — “they handled my luggage and I was at my hotel within 20 minutes.”
For older travelers, chauffeur services are more than a luxury:
Convenience: No need to carry heavy bags or wait in long lines.
Health: Less walking after hours of sitting helps reduce fatigue.
Peace of mind: Reliable, professional transport in a new city.
➡️ AARP travel surveys often highlight that convenience and reduced stress rank high among senior travel priorities.
Etihad Airways: Complimentary chauffeur phased out, limited paid add-ons available.
Emirates: Still offers chauffeur service for Business and First Class in many cities.
Qatar Airways: Does not typically provide chauffeur service for Business Class.
➡️ Want to compare your options before booking? Call (877)764-3622 to see which airline best meets your needs.
Pre-book your transfer when booking flights or hotels.
Travel light or use baggage assistance.
Request mobility support in advance if walking distances is difficult.
Consider travel insurance to cover missed transfers or delays.