Abu Dhabi Airports, the operator of the emirate’s main commercial airport, Abu Dhabi-Zayed International Airport (AUH), announced its results for 2024 on February 5, 2025. The company handled 29.4 million passengers in total through its five airports, a figure that represents a 28.1% increase compared to the 22.9 million passengers handled in 2023. According to the company, the figures “showcase significant growth and reaffirm Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global aviation hub.”
The company, which also operates Delma Airport (ZDY), Al Ain International Airport (AAN), Al Bateen Executive Airport (AZI), and Sir Bani Yas Airport (XSB), attributes the increase to “network expansion, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to delivering a world-class passenger experience.” Abu Dhabi-Zayed International Airport served an expanded network of connections covering more than 125 destinations with 29 new routes launched in 2024 alone.
The airport welcomed the addition of eight new airlines to its network, including British Airways, Air Astana, Aegean Airlines, US Bangla Airlines, Akasa Air, Hainan Airlines, Flynas, and Turkmenistan Airlines. The expanded connectivity resulted in a 10% increase in aircraft movements, from 226,362 in 2023 to 249,747 in 2024, highlighting the significant and rising demand from key markets such as the UK, India, Qatar, and Egypt.
Abu Dhabi Airports also saw substantial growth in cargo traffic, handling 678,990 tonnes in 2024, representing a 21% increase compared to 560,434 tonnes in 2023. “The surge in cargo volume highlights Abu Dhabi’s growing prominence as a global logistics center facilitating international trade, driven by investments in cutting-edge infrastructure and advanced technologies,” said the company.
Abu Dhabi Airports continued its investment in key infrastructure projects and passenger-centric initiatives throughout 2024. These served to “further enhance operational efficiency and the overall passenger experience at Zayed International Airport.” These investments included the completion of the Northern Runway Rehabilitation Project, which will ensure continued operational resilience of the airport
Furthermore, the inauguration of the new US Customs and Border Protection pre-clearance facility (the only one of its kind in the Middle East and Asia, provides enhanced convenience for passengers traveling from, Abu Dhabi to the US. Additionally, the introduction of biometric touchpoints, including check-in desks, self-service baggage drops, and e-gates, have all streamlined the passenger journey and increased speed and efficiency, says the company.
“2024 was a highly successful year for Abu Dhabi Airports, marked by record-breaking passenger traffic, significant cargo growth, and the successful completion of key infrastructure projects,” said Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports. These achievements highlight our commitment to delivering a world-class travel experience and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global aviation hub.”
We are deeply grateful for the support of our stakeholders and airline partners, this strong performance positions us for continued progress and reinforces our contribution to Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification,” Sorlini concluded.
