Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport has earned the title of ‘World’s Most Beautiful Airport’ at the 2024 Prix Versailles awards, a global competition that celebrates excellence in architecture and design. The award highlights the airport’s cutting-edge style, which seamlessly blends modern innovation with the UAE’s rich cultural heritage. The announcement was made during a ceremony at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, coinciding with the airport’s first anniversary and the UAE’s 53rd National Day celebrations.

In just one year, Zayed International Airport has raised the bar for what an airport can be. Its striking X-shaped design spans an impressive 742,000 square meters, enabling it to accommodate up to 11,000 passengers per hour and handle 79 aircraft at once—nearly doubling its previous capacity. Future plans aim to boost its annual passenger count to 45 million by 2025, supported by the introduction of advanced biometric touchpoints to streamline travel.

Elena Sorlini, CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, described the airport as a shining example of the UAE’s forward-thinking vision. “Zayed International Airport is not just a place for travel—it embodies innovation and redefines the passenger experience,” she said.

The airport has also achieved remarkable growth over the past year. Recognized as the fastest-growing airport in the Middle East for international seat capacity, it has consistently drawn praise for its efficiency and customer satisfaction, earning a high ACI ASQ score. By the end of September, more than 21 million passengers had passed through its doors, with numbers continuing to rise every quarter.

What sets Zayed International Airport apart is its ability to merge functionality with beauty. From the intricate design inspired by Emirati culture to the seamless integration of advanced technology, it offers a travel experience that is as efficient as it is memorable. Abu Dhabi’s aviation sector has clearly positioned itself as a global leader, and this recognition is just another step in its journey to excellence.