Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport was crowned “World’s Most Beautiful Airport” at the Prix Versailles, The World Architecture and Design Award, in recognition of its outstanding architectural design in the Airports category. The announcement was made at a ceremony in Paris at UNESCO’s Headquarters, coinciding with the airport’s first anniversary and the 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations.
“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,” stated Elena Sorlini, managing director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports.
Airport accommodates up to 11,000 travelers per hour
In just one year of operation, Zayed International Airport claimed the top spot in this highly coveted category amid strong global competition to set a new standard for airport excellence worldwide. The award celebrates Zayed International Airport’s groundbreaking design, which blends cutting-edge technology with the rich cultural heritage of the UAE.
The airport spans 742,000 square meters, boasting a distinctive X-shaped design, equipped to accommodate up to 11,000 travelers per hour and 79 aircraft simultaneously. This expansion has doubled its previous capacity, preparing the airport to manage up to 45 million passengers annually, pioneering the world’s first nine biometric touchpoints by 2025.
Fastest-growing airport in the Middle East
This award complements the global recognition that Zayed International Airport has achieved over the past twelve months, most notably being the fastest-growing airport in the Middle East in terms of international seat capacity.
It has also achieved an excellent ACI ASQ satisfaction score that ranks it as one of the best airports in the world. This excellence falls against a backdrop of strong passenger traffic numbers that have seen a steady quarter-on-quarter increase to over 21 million passengers as of September 30.
Zayed International Airport’s design seamlessly integrates elements of Emirati culture with cutting-edge technology, creating a stunning and efficient space for travelers. The award is testimony to the dedication of over 25,000 team members who contributed to the airport’s development and launch in November 2023. This Prix Versailles award further solidifies Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination and highlights the emirate’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the aviation industry.
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Notable wins
The World Architecture and Design Award also recognized the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza as the world’s most beautiful museum. Oman Across Ages Museum also captured the special prize for an Exterior. The Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain was among the world’s most beautiful hotels this year while The Ned Doha took the Special prize for an Interior award. Ariana’s Persian Kitchen in Dubai also snatched the Special prize for an Interior, making it one of the most beautiful restaurants in the world.
Along with Zayed International Airport, Mexico’s Felipe Ángeles International Airport also received the Prix Versailles for the most beautiful airport in the world.
