In a remarkable achievement for UAE’s aviation sector, Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport has secured the prestigious title of world’s most beautiful airport at the Prix Versailles World Architecture and Design Award. The announcement, made at UNESCO’s Headquarters in Paris, coincides with the airport’s first anniversary and the UAE’s 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations.
Architectural Marvel with Enhanced Capacity
The airport’s striking X-shaped design spans an impressive 742,000 square metres, showcasing an exceptional blend of modern architecture and UAE’s cultural elements. Key features include:

- Advanced passenger processing capabilities allowing for 11,000 travellers per hour, demonstrating the airport’s commitment to efficiency and passenger convenience. The facility can simultaneously accommodate 79 aircraft, positioning it as a major aviation hub in the region.

- Projected annual passenger capacity of 45 million, marking a significant expansion that doubles its previous capabilities. The airport is set to introduce the world’s first nine biometric touchpoints by 2025, highlighting its focus on technological advancement.
Record-Breaking Performance and Recognition

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, expressed pride in the achievement:
“Zayed International Airport represents the UAE’s vision for the future of aviation, combining ambition with innovation, and a dedication to transforming airport experiences.”
The facility has already established itself as a regional powerhouse:
- Achieved recognition as the Middle East’s fastest-growing airport for international seat capacity
- Maintained exceptional ACI ASQ satisfaction scores, ranking among the world’s premier airports
- Served over 21 million passengers by September 30, showing consistent quarterly growth
Collaborative Success Story

The development and launch of Zayed International Airport in November 2023 brought together more than 25,000 team members, showcasing the collaborative spirit behind this architectural masterpiece. Their combined expertise has resulted in a facility that harmoniously integrates Emirati cultural elements with state-of-the-art technology.
This prestigious Prix Versailles recognition strengthens Abu Dhabi’s status as a global destination and demonstrates its leadership in aviation excellence. The award reflects the emirate’s successful strategy in developing world-class infrastructure that serves both local and international travellers.
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Additional Reading Material
- Zayed International Airport’s Northern Runway Reopens Early: Boosting Abu Dhabi Aviation
- Zayed International Airport Marks New Era with 23M Passengers & Tribute to UAE’s Founding Father
- Abu Dhabi Airports Hit 21.7M Passengers in Q3 2024: Record Growth Report
- First-Time UAE Visitors: Fast-Track Immigration at Abu Dhabi Airport with ‘UAE Fast Track’ App
- Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Airport Launches Biometric Smart Travel: Faster, Safer Journeys Ahead




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