Zayed International Airport (AUH) has been crowned the World’s Most Beautiful Airport at the prestigious Prix Versailles, the global architecture and design award, recognizing its exceptional architectural achievement in the Airports category. The announcement was made at a ceremony held at UNESCO’s Headquarters in Paris, coinciding with the airport’s first anniversary and the UAE’s 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations.
In just one year of operation, Zayed International Airport has triumphed in this highly competitive category, setting a new benchmark for airport excellence worldwide. The accolade celebrates the airport’s innovative design, which harmoniously blends state-of-the-art technology with the rich cultural heritage of the UAE.
Spanning 742,000 square meters, it features a striking X-shaped design and is equipped to handle up to 11,000 travelers per hour and accommodate 79 aircraft simultaneously. This innovative design has more than doubled the airport’s previous capacity, positioning AUH to manage up to 45 million passengers annually. Additionally, the airport is set to pioneer nine biometric touchpoints by 2025, further enhancing the traveler experience.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, expressed her pride, stating, “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. This is a very proud moment for Abu Dhabi Airports.”
This prestigious award adds to the global recognition AUH has garnered over the past year, including being named the fastest-growing airport in the Middle East in terms of international seat capacity. The airport has also received an outstanding ACI ASQ satisfaction score, ranking it among the best airports in the world. As of September 30, 2024, AUH has served over 21 million passengers, reflecting a steady increase in passenger traffic quarter on quarter.
Zayed International Airport’s design seamlessly integrates elements of Emirati culture with advanced technology, creating an efficient and aesthetically stunning space for travelers. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of over 25,000 team members who contributed to the airport’s development and successful launch in November 2023. The Prix Versailles award further solidifies Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination and underscores the emirate’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the aviation industry. -WAM
