Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport has been named the world’s most beautiful airport at the prestigious Prix Versailles World Architecture and Design Awards. This recognition highlights its exceptional architectural design in the Airports category.
The announcement was made at a ceremony in Paris, held at UNESCO’s Headquarters. The win coincided with the airport’s first anniversary and the UAE’s 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations, making it a double celebration for Abu Dhabi.
Global Recognition in Just One Year
In just a year since its launch, Zayed International Airport has achieved a remarkable feat by securing this top honor amidst tough global competition. This award sets a new global benchmark for airport design and excellence.
The airport’s unique X-shaped design combines cutting-edge technology with the rich heritage of the UAE. Spanning an area of 742,000 square meters, it can handle up to 11,000 passengers per hour and accommodate 79 aircraft at the same time. Its capacity of 45 million passengers annually doubles that of its predecessor, and by 2025, it aims to pioneer nine biometric touchpoints, making travel smoother and more efficient.
A Testament to UAE’s Vision for Aviation
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, stated, “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 recognition also adds to the airport’s list of accomplishments. Over the past year, Zayed International Airport was named the fastest-growing airport in the Middle East in terms of international seat capacity and earned a top ACI ASQ satisfaction score, making it one of the best airports globally. By September 30, the airport had served over 21 million passengers, with passenger traffic steadily increasing each quarter.
Cultural Heritage Meets Innovation
The airport’s design beautifully integrates Emirati cultural elements with state-of-the-art technology, creating a visually stunning and highly efficient space for travelers. This remarkable achievement reflects the hard work of over 25,000 team members who contributed to its development and launch in November 2023.
Strengthening Abu Dhabi’s Global Reputation
Winning the Prix Versailles award reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a global leader in innovation and excellence within the aviation industry. This recognition highlights the emirate’s commitment to creating world-class experiences for passengers and further solidifies its reputation as a premier international destination.
