Zayed International chosen ‘World’s Most Beautiful Airport’
Zayed International Airport combines traditional and modern elements in a pinnacle of design, where form and function join together in a design masterpiece
In a remarkable achievement that coincides with both its first anniversary and the UAE’s 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations, Zayed International Airport (AUH) has secured the coveted “World’s Most Beautiful Airport” title at the Prix Versailles World Architecture and Design Awards. This recognition, presented at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, affirms the facility’s position as a leading global aviation hub and validates Abu Dhabi’s ambitious vision for the future of air travel.
Innovation meets culture
At the heart of this achievement lies the airport’s innovative X-shaped design, which has fundamentally redefined architectural standards in aviation infrastructure. The terminal, spanning an impressive 742,000 square meters, represents a masterful fusion of technological advancement and cultural sensitivity. Its design philosophy successfully marries Emirati cultural elements with modern aviation requirements, creating a space that honors local heritage while meeting the demands of international travelers.
“Zayed International Airport embodies the UAE’s vision for the future of aviation, blending ambition with innovation, and a commitment to shaping the future of airport experiences,” says Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports. “This is a very proud moment for Abu Dhabi Airports.”
New benchmarks
The facility’s capabilities are as impressive as its aesthetics. With the capacity to accommodate up to 11,000 travelers per hour and 79 aircraft simultaneously, AUH stands among the world’s most efficient aviation hubs. This expanded capacity has doubled the airport’s previous capabilities, enabling it to handle up to 45 million passengers annually.
The results are already evident. By September 30, the facility had served over 21 million passengers, demonstrating consistent quarter-on-quarter growth. This success has positioned AUH as the Middle East’s fastest-growing airport in international seat capacity.
The airport is set to break new ground in passenger processing technology. Plans are underway to implement the world’s first nine biometric touchpoints by 2025, further cementing its position as a pioneer in aviation innovation.
Customer experience
The airport’s commitment to exceptional service has not gone unnoticed. It has achieved remarkable passenger satisfaction metrics, securing an exceptional ACI ASQ satisfaction score that places it among the world’s premier airports. This achievement represents the culmination of efforts by more than 25,000 team members who contributed to the airport’s development and launch in November 2023.
The Prix Versailles recognition reinforces Abu Dhabi’s status as a premier global destination and rewards the emirate’s dedication to pushing boundaries in aviation excellence. As Zayed International Airport continues to evolve and grow, it stands as a testament to the UAE’s commitment to innovation and excellence in aviation infrastructure.
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