Abu Dhabi, UAE – Abu Dhabi Airports, the operator of the emirate’s five airports, including Zayed International, achieved a historic milestone in 2025, surpassing 33 million passengers – the highest annual figure ever recorded in the emirate.
A press release stated that this performance reflects sustained growth and a doubling of air traffic volumes over the past three years,
highlighting Zayed International’s emergence as the fastest-growing mega-airport in the Europe,
Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region, according to the latest global air traffic data.
Launch of 39 new destinations
This achievement is attributed to the continuous expansion of the international destination network,
with airlines launching new routes and increasing flight frequencies on high-demand routes,
in addition to strengthening air connectivity with key markets in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
During 2025, Zayed International Airport witnessed the launch of 39 new destinations and the addition of 7 new airlines.
The airport handled approximately 98% of the emirate’s total passenger traffic,
recording 8.59 million passengers in the last quarter of the year, representing year-on-year growth of 13.8%.
The airport also exceeded 100,000 passengers per day on several occasions,
a clear indicator of its operational efficiency and ability to handle peak traffic,
solidifying its position as a pivotal hub for direct and connecting flights.
Airports are ready to meet global demand
Ahmed Juma Al Shamsi, Acting CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said that exceeding 33 million passengers is
a significant achievement that reflects the airports’ readiness to meet increasing global demand.
He emphasized the continued commitment to operational excellence and expanding cargo
and logistics capabilities to support Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub.
Other airports in the emirate also recorded notable growth, with Al Bateen Executive Airport experiencing
increased aircraft movements and Al Ain International Airport achieving substantial growth in passenger traffic.
Air cargo handling reached approximately 770,000 tons in 2025, representing an annual growth rate of 12%.
This performance reflects a steady upward trajectory that reinforces
Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination in the aviation sector.
