Why OFWs Take Off From Abu Dhabi

By Carol Tanjutco

Filipino chef tends to the hot buffet meals and dessert bar at Etihad Lounge, one of the several lounges operated by Abu Dhabi’s carrier. Smaller lounges are also accessible near the boarding gates. Access to lounge is open to business travelers and silver members.

Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from United Arab Emirates, including those from nearby places like Oman, prefer to depart from Abu Dhabi international airport going to Manila, while business travelers from connecting flights take their time to relax at the well-appointed airport lounges for a spa, hot meals, open bar and welcome attitude of Filipino airport workers.

Having fully operating duty-free shops and premium lounges open 24/7 help travelers while away spend their time in this new-found shopping mecca. Many of the shops are manned by Filipino workers which makes it more  fun when shopping for items with bonus gifts. They also make it easy for departing OFWs to pick gifts for their loved ones back home. Even for international travelers making a connection through Abu Dhabi, it makes sense to buy high ticket items like watches, gold and jewelry, tax-free.

Art of Arabic coffee, served with dates, no cream no sugar. Arabica beans taste a bit like ginger, added with rose water and saffron.

For business and first class passengers, a stop at one of premium lounges offer an open bar, six-course hot buffet meals, sampling of the famous Arabic coffee, selection of a variety of coffee, tea and desserts 24hours a day. Free wifi access and charging stations are available. The lounge also offers complimentary spa, facial massage and shower facilities. The fully stacked bar carry premium brands for liquor, wines, and beer.

For  frequent flying  OFWs in the United Arab Emirates, who are allowed to visit Manila 5-6 times a year, departing from Abu Dhabi is a clear choice because of the new fleet of Etihad jets and perks that are easy to accumulate. Surprisingly, for long-haulers from JFK New York to Manila, it takes only one and a half of a round trip to reach silver status, entitling the passenger to extra 10-kilos of luggage or a third luggage free, with an access to Al Nareem Lounge  for complimentary food and services. These are normally limited to gold status members of American airlines. For one who is flying for work, this is a major advantage.

Six Senses Spa offers complimentary facial, head, body or foot massage.

The massage room is prepared for a quick turn-over of 15-minute services.

Lounge hopping may well be a new option for those traveling with 5 or more hours of layover. The Six Senses Spa staffed by mostly Filipinos offer free 15- minute facial, head massage, back or foot massage. Attendant Venus said she has a continuous appointment with 15- minute window. These Filipino workers on lounges are also entitled to travel benefits like the flight attendants. From one grand lounge to a mini lounge next to the boarding gate, for that last hour Arabic coffee, travelers are treated to an experience that is fun all by itself.