Etihad Airways Unaccompanied Minor Policy (2026)
Etihad's Unaccompanied Minor service is mandatory and free for ages 5-11 if pre-booked. For teens 12-17 or last-minute bookings, it costs $100-$150 each way.
Last verified: 2026-07-29. Source: Etihad Airways official website.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Policy |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 5 years old |
| UM Mandatory | Ages 5–11 |
| UM Optional | Ages 12–17 |
| Domestic Fee | Not applicable (Etihad does not operate domestic flights) |
| International Fee | Free for ages 5-11 (pre-booked). $100 each way for direct flights or $150 each way for connecting flights for ages 12-17 or last-minute bookings. |
| Per Child? | Yes (per child) |
| Connections | Allowed — Maximum transit time in Abu Dhabi is 8 hours for UMs. |
| International | Allowed — Etihad primarily operates international flights. |
| Booking Method | Must book a normal adult fare. The service is free for 5-11 year olds only if booked in advance. |
Ages 5-11 must use the UM service. Ages 12-17 may travel alone or opt into the UM service.
How It Works: Step by Step
- Check-In: Check in at any airport check-in desk at least two hours before the flight. Parent/guardian must remain at the airport until the flight has departed.
- Boarding: Hosts will be with the child until they board. Priority boarding is provided.
- In-Flight: Children are supervised by crew and provided with E-BOX entertainment and activity packs.
- Arrival: Hosts help the child through immigration, baggage claim, and customs to meet the designated pickup person.
Escort Rules: The designated pickup person must bring valid ID to meet the child at Arrivals.
Required Documents
Required
- Completed Unaccompanied Minor form (submitted at least 24 hours before departure)
- Child's passport
- Valid ID for pickup person
Recommended
- Child's own phone or tablet for shorter flights
Print and sign the completed request form and take it to the airport.
Safety Procedures
- Dedicated staff member accompanies child from check-in to arrival
- Lounge access in Abu Dhabi for connecting flights or premium cabins
- Hosts assist with immigration and customs on arrival
- Dedicated female team member stays with child if connecting flight is delayed
Restrictions & Exceptions
- Maximum transit time in Abu Dhabi is 8 hours
- 12-17 year olds cannot escort an Unaccompanied Minor
- Must book a normal adult fare
Pro Tips for Parents
- Book in Advance: Book the UM service at least 24 hours before departure to ensure it is free for children aged 5-11.
- Pack Electronics: Bring a charged phone or tablet for your child, as they may need their own device to watch E-BOX on shorter flights.
- Prepare for Connections: If your child has a connecting flight in Abu Dhabi, rest assured they will be accompanied to a lounge by a host.
The Bottom Line
Etihad offers a complimentary UM service for children 5-11 when booked in advance, making it highly cost-effective for families, with dedicated lounges in Abu Dhabi.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does Etihad charge for unaccompanied minors?
- The UM service is free for children aged 5-11 when booked in advance. For ages 12-17 or if arranged on the day of travel, it costs $100 each way for direct flights and $150 each way for connecting flights.
- What is the minimum age for a child to fly alone on Etihad?
- The minimum age is 5 years old. Children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult.
- How do I book the Unaccompanied Minor service on Etihad?
- First, book a normal adult fare flight for your child. Then, submit an Unaccompanied Minor form online at least 24 hours before departure. Print and sign the form to take to the airport.