The new state-of-the-art gateway in Abu Dhabi,
shaping the future of airport experiences
Zayed International serves as a cornerstone in advancing the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, the strategic roadmap designed to steer the Emirate toward a diversified economy and a sustainable future.
As enhancing the capital's tourism is fundamental to this vision, the newest terminal plays a pivotal role in attracting, receiving and welcoming both global and regional visitors.
Abu Dhabi constructed the new terminal with a clear ambition: to create the most beautiful and efficient airport in the world.
Looking up at the ceiling, graceful and majestic arches extend their embrace to departing passengers in a welcoming, light-filled hall. One of the world's largest single vaults guides travelers to the boarding gates, showcasing a harmonious interplay of curved lines and sand-like textures. Zayed International's architecture set a world record with a 180-meter-long arch and a 52-meter-high dome covering an area equivalent to 21 football fields. Like a breath of fresh air, travelers move through the vast open space, eyes wide with awe, inspired by the grandeur of their surroundings.
With a vision to accomodate 45 million passengers annually by 2030, efficiency was paramount. The terminal boasts 65 aircraft gates and the largest baggage handling system in the world, ensuring a seamless journey for every traveler. Arriving at ZIA is a reassuring experience, an effortless transition into the warmth of the UAE.
Zayed International Airport is designed to welcome around 45 million tourists a year, a trend prompted by the Abu Dhabi tourism strategy aiming at more than doubling the number of visitors by 2030.
The terminal, a USD 3 billion project, is located in a strategic area of the city, well connected to the entertainment and cultural hubs of the capital and on the highway to reach Dubai in less than an hour. With a surface covering some 700,000 sqm, the terminal has the capacity to handle up to 11,000 passengers per hour thanks to its innovative structure that enables faster and smoother passenger transits from Departures to Arrivals.
Innovation is a key component that is enabling ZIA as one of the most efficient terminals in the world, with self check-in counters and biometric solutions that make the immigration and emigration processes simple and pleasant for passengers.
In just one year the airport positioned as a global hub and marked a record increase in passengers traffic, sustained by an expanded networks and new airlines.
Zayed International is outfitted with modern amenities designed to elevate the comfort of travelers. Covering a core space of 28,500 sqm, visitors can access premium lounges, spas, and over 160 shopping and dining venues. An array of luxury shops awaits for luxury and fashion lovers.
The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) has honored Zayed International with a prestigious 3 Pearl Design Rating under the Estidama Pearl Building Rating System. The terminal's design is highly climate-responsive, with a façade adapted to the region's environmental conditions. Furthermore, it integrates advanced energy and water management systems to optimize efficiency an reduce consumption. Notably, it is also home to Abu Dhabi’s largest solar-powered car park, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.
Environmental awareness and respect are deeply embedded in our company values and have recently translated into concrete actions: we are proud to be the first OOH company in the world to receive the RE100 certificate. Our endeavors to reach net-zero emissions were also recognized by major non-financial rating agencies:
