Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) has been honored with the prestigious title of the world’s most beautiful airport by Prix Versailles. This recognition, announced during a ceremony at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, marks a significant milestone as the airport celebrates its first year of operation.
Setting New Standards in Airport Design
Zayed International Airport triumphed in a competitive global field, earning praise for its innovative and aesthetically stunning design that integrates cutting-edge technology with the rich cultural heritage of the UAE. This accolade affirms its position as a trailblazer in modern airport architecture and passenger experience.
The airport’s X-shaped layout spans an impressive 742,000 square meters and is engineered to handle up to 11,000 travelers per hour and 79 aircraft simultaneously. With the addition of Terminal 1, AUH has doubled its capacity, now able to accommodate up to 45 million passengers annually.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, shared her pride:
“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. I extend my gratitude to His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Airports; Kohn Pedersen Fox, the architectural firm behind this masterpiece; our stakeholders and partners, and the entire Abu Dhabi Airports team.”
Global Recognition for Excellence
Prix Versailles lauded Zayed International Airport for its seamless fusion of form and function. The airport was among an elite group of winners this year, including:
- Felipe Ángeles International Airport (Mexico)
- Changi Airport Terminal 2 (Singapore)
- Suvarnabhumi Airport Midfield Satellite 1 (Bangkok, Thailand)
- Logan International Airport Terminal E (Boston, US)
- Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City, US)
This latest award joins a growing list of achievements for AUH, including recognition as the fastest-growing airport in the Middle East in terms of international seat capacity.
A Visionary Hub for the Future
As the gateway to Abu Dhabi and beyond, Zayed International Airport is more than a transportation hub—it’s a symbol of the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to aviation. With its state-of-the-art facilities, striking design, and commitment to exceptional passenger experiences, AUH has firmly established itself as a global benchmark in airport excellence.
