Abu Dhabi’s Airports Record Significant Growth
Abu Dhabi’s airports recorded more than 15.8 million passengers in the first half of 2025, an increase of 13.1 percent in the same period in 2024. This remarkable growth underlines the upward trajectory of the aviation sector.
Consistent Growth
This is the 17th quarter of double-digit growth of passenger traffic, cementing Abu Dhabi’s airports as a crucial engine for the economic diversification and global connectivity strategy of the United Arab Emirates. At the center of this growth is the Zayed International Airport (AUH), which alone recorded an increase of 13.2 percent compared to the previous year.
Airport Performance
AUH also recorded 93,858 aircraft movements during this period, an increase of 11.4 percent compared to 84,286 flights in the first half of 2024. In the five commercial airports of Abu Dhabi, overall flight movements reached 133,533, an increase of 9.2 percent. This demonstrates the growing attractiveness of the Emirate as a transit hub and final destination.
Network Expansion
The consistent growth in passenger numbers takes place amid an ambitious strategy for network expansion. In the first six months of the year, 16 new destinations were added in Abu Dhabi. These additions position the Emirate as the most connected hub in the UAE and reinforce the role of Abu Dhabi as a main node in the global aviation landscape.
Operational Resilience
Elena Sorlini, managing director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, attributed the consistent growth to operational resilience, strategic cooperation, and a clear long-term vision. "Despite operational headwinds in early 2025, our results reflect our agility, commitment, and collaborative partnerships," she said.
Future Prospects
Aviation experts predict that the second half of 2025 will build on this momentum. "With increasing international airline partnerships, the continuing recovery and expansion of tourism, and the accelerating pace of global trade, Abu Dhabi Airports is well-positioned to close the year with record numbers," said an expert.
Freight Operations
Significant profits were also recorded in freight operations, highlighting the increasing importance of Abu Dhabi in global logistics and e-commerce. In the first half of 2025, Abu Dhabi’s airports completed 344,795 tons of freight, driven by strategic investments and partnerships.
Strategic Milestones
Abu Dhabi Airports reached several strategic milestones during this period, including the completion of rehabilitation work at Sir Bani Yas Airport and the signing of a joint venture contract with JD Property. The airport also received the prestigious 3 Pearl Estidama rating for a sustainable building and was appointed "Best Airport at Foundings Worldwide" at the Airports Council International (ACI) ASQ Awards.
Collaborations and Innovations
A collaboration with Bombardier on the Al Bateen Executive Airport and a memorandum of understanding with TAQA Distribution aim to establish the Emirate as a regional competence center for business aviation services and explore the use of next-generation supply technologies. These initiatives match the long-term vision of Abu Dhabi Airports via digital innovation and environmental responsibility.
