Abu Dhabi Airports’ traffic up 33.5% in first half of 2024

This is compared to the first six months of 2023, with visitors across the network nearing 14 million.

Zayed International Airport alone facilitated over 13.7 million passengers, a 33.8% increase year-on-year; made possible by a 24.3% rise in flight movements. The newly-renamed airport (previously Abu Dhabi International) “will play a key role in Abu Dhabi’s plans to strengthen its position as a destination of choice for international visitors and as a strategic hub for tourism, trade and connectivity” commented Abu Dhabi Airports; citing advanced features as key to Zayed International’s passenger experience.

Initiatives such as a nine-touch-point facial recognition journey – with Zayed International the first and only airport worldwide to deploy this technology – enable “reduced queueing times and a hassle-free, seamless journey through the airport,” noted Abu Dhabi Airports, which added that the airport is the only one in the region to offer US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) preclearance.

The 740,000 square metre airport is capable of handling 79 aircraft and 11,000 passengers per hour. Its baggage handling system can process up to 19,200 bags per hour. Opened in February 2024, the newly constructed Terminal A complex will more than double the capacity of the old terminals by managing up to 45 million passengers annually.

“Abu Dhabi Airports will continue to invest in its facilities and services to enhance the passenger experience and wider value proposition to satisfy existing airline partners and common customers as well as attract new ones,” concluded Elena Sorlini, managing director and CEO at Abu Dhabi Airports. “With these strong results, the airport group is well-positioned for future growth and success in the future.”