Abu Dhabi Airports Achieves Record Passenger Growth in 2024

Abu Dhabi Airports, which manages five commercial airports in the emirate, experienced an impressive 28.1% surge in passenger traffic for 2024, accommodating 29.4 million travelers compared to 22.9 million in 2023. This remarkable growth was driven largely by developments at Zayed International Airport (AUH), which added 29 new routes and welcomed eight new airlines. Aircraft movements rose by 10%, while key infrastructure projects and biometric innovations improved passenger experiences and cargo handling efficiency.

Passenger Traffic Surges on New Routes and Airlines

Abu Dhabi Airports witnessed an extraordinary rise in passenger volumes, largely propelled by network expansions and new airline partnerships.

Passenger Growth: Traffic rose to 29.4 million in 2024, a 28.1% increase from the previous year.
Key Contributor: Zayed International Airport added 29 new routes and now connects to over 125 destinations globally.
New Airline Partners: The airport welcomed eight airlines, including British Airways, Air Astana, Aegean Airlines, and Flynas, which contributed to increased connectivity and demand.
This growth demonstrates Abu Dhabi’s strengthened position as a global aviation hub, with key markets such as the UK, India, Qatar, and Egypt fueling the surge in demand.

Aircraft Movements Reflect Growing Operations

Increased flight activity at Abu Dhabi’s airports highlights the scale of the operational growth achieved in 2024.

Aircraft Movements: The number of flights increased by 10%, from 226,362 in 2023 to 249,747 in 2024.
This boost was directly tied to expanded routes and the inclusion of new airline partners, making Abu Dhabi a critical node in international travel and trade.

Cargo Traffic Sees Robust Expansion

Beyond passenger traffic, Abu Dhabi Airports reported a strong uptick in cargo handling, reflecting the emirate’s growing logistics capabilities.

Cargo Volume: Total cargo throughput rose to 678,990 tonnes in 2024, marking a 21% increase from 560,434 tonnes in 2023.
Growth Drivers: The airport’s advanced logistics infrastructure, including expanded warehousing facilities and streamlined customs operations, contributed to the surge.
The cargo growth underscores Abu Dhabi’s ambitions to become a major logistics and trade hub, leveraging its strategic geographical location.

Major Infrastructure Projects Completed

Several high-impact infrastructure projects were completed in 2024, enhancing the airport’s capacity and operational efficiency.

Northern Runway Rehabilitation Project: This initiative increased runway capacity to support rising aircraft movements.
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Facility: The first of its kind in the region, this facility facilitates seamless travel for passengers bound for the United States by enabling pre-clearance services.
Biometric Touchpoints: The implementation of biometric technology at check-in desks, baggage drop areas, and e-gates significantly reduced processing times and enhanced the passenger experience.
These developments position Abu Dhabi as a frontrunner in airport innovation, integrating advanced technology to streamline operations.

Focus on Passenger Inclusivity and Accessibility

Abu Dhabi Airports made inclusivity a cornerstone of its 2024 initiatives, ensuring that facilities cater to a diverse range of passenger needs.

Accessibility Achievements: The airports earned the ACI Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation in recognition of their commitment to inclusivity.
New Passenger-Focused Initiatives:
Sensory Space: Designed to support passengers with sensory sensitivities.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme: Provides discreet assistance to travelers with non-visible disabilities.
Pet Relief Area: Offers pet-friendly facilities for passengers traveling with animals.
These measures reflect Abu Dhabi Airports’ dedication to delivering a world-class travel experience that is inclusive and accommodating.

Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone Expansion

The Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ) underwent significant expansion, reinforcing the emirate’s role as a key logistics and trade hub.

New Warehousing Facility: Construction commenced on an advanced warehousing complex with a budget of Dhs85 million.
Musataha Agreement: A strategic partnership was signed with the Radius Group to develop Dhs320 million worth of state-of-the-art warehouses.
These investments are designed to support growing cargo operations and attract new business to the region, enhancing Abu Dhabi’s competitiveness in the global logistics market.

Executive Insights and Industry Outlook

Abu Dhabi Airports’ leadership expressed confidence in sustaining growth through continued investment in connectivity and infrastructure.

Elena Sorlini, MD & CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports: Sorlini described 2024 as a “highly successful year,” characterized by record-breaking traffic and strategic infrastructure projects.
Strategic Goals: The airport operator aims to further expand its global network, improve operational efficiency, and maintain its leadership in passenger service innovations.
As global travel demand recovers, Abu Dhabi Airports remains well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in aviation and logistics.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

Abu Dhabi Airports faces both promising opportunities and operational challenges as it seeks to maintain its growth trajectory.

Opportunities: The ongoing recovery in international travel and trade presents significant growth potential, particularly as new routes and partnerships expand the emirate’s reach.
Challenges: Rising competition from other regional aviation hubs and the need to continually enhance technological capabilities will require strategic investments and innovation.
Nonetheless, with its robust infrastructure and forward-looking leadership, Abu Dhabi Airports is poised to sustain long-term success in the global aviation industry.