Discover Nick Walton’s in-depth review of Etihad’s business class on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner from Hong Kong to Abu Dhabi, featuring world-class service, excellent dining, and lie-flat comfort.
Airline: Etihad Airways | Route: Hong Kong-Abu Dhabi | Aircraft: 787 | Rating:★★★★★
Background
One of the most pioneering carriers from the Middle East, Etihad combines a modern fleet and extensive network with a dedication to inflight service that has made it a global benchmark for refined air travel.
Check-In & Lounge Experience
I checked in online via Etihad’s user-friendly app before checking in my bags at Hong Kong International. The third-party staff member checking me in was somewhat abrupt and forgot the lounge pass, but that happens. After security I headed to the Hong Kong Airlines Club Bauhinia lounge near gate 25.
Boarding was announced for 5:30 pm but began at 6:00 pm. Passengers quickly boarded the two-class Boeing 787-9. Once seated, crew served glasses of Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut champagne. Professional efficiency during boarding quickly shifted to genuine warmth once airborne.
The Seat
My window seat 8A on the port side was one of 28 lie-flat business class seats in a 2-4-2 configuration (some facing aft, some forward). The “Business Studio” seat, similar to Etihad’s A380 product, features elegant curves that feel intuitive almost immediately.
The 22-inch-wide seat offers generous surface area ideal for work or keeping essentials close at hand. Storage is excellent compared to many business class cabins on other carriers, and includes an elbow-level cubby that holds Etihad headphones, a water bottle, and a stylish Acqua Di Parma amenity kit (although they have some rather nice new ones now) and headphone case.
Paired with the ottoman beneath the 18.5-inch touchscreen, and the seat becomes a very comfortable bed with a firm pillow and duvet. Shoe storage under the ottoman is especially welcome for travellers with larger feet.
Etihad Inflight Dining and Wine Pairing
Dinner began with a well-mixed bourbon and soda plus warm nuts, both proactively replenished by crew. Starters included an Arabic mezze platter that was perfect for grazing, and which was followed by a beef tenderloin with gratin potatoes, French beans, caramelised onions and garlic-rosemary jus, a perfect comfort dish for an evening flight. I paired my steak with a Yabby Lake Red Claw Shiraz from Australia.
Afterwards came artisan cheeses and tempting desserts (warm chocolate fondant or strawberry-rhubarb tart). However, I skipped dessert, opting instead to get some sleep, converting the seat to bed mode while cruising over Thailand.
Etihad Entertainment System Review
Etihad’s IFE offers a strong selection of new releases, classics flicks and television shows. The large personal monitor and separate remote make navigation effortless. I consistently found enjoyable content across multiple flights with the airline.
Etihad Service Review
World-class service was evident from the first interaction and remained consistent. In business class, crew member Milosh expertly handled wine selections and drink top-ups while ensuring every passenger wanted for nothing. Etihad’s intuitive, attentive service continues to set it apart from many Middle East and Asian competitors.
Summary – Etihad Hong Kong to Abu Dhabi Business Class
Previous Etihad flights delivered impeccable service even with older hardware. Now operating the Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the Hong Kong–Abu Dhabi route, the airline offers business travellers true world-class comfort.
Price: Business class return from Hong Kong to Abu Dhabi starts from US$2,060 per person (at time of publication).
