Abu Dhabi Airports Reports Growth With 15.8 Million Passengers In First Half Of 2025

Abu Dhabi Airports reported a significant increase in passenger numbers, with over 15.8 million travellers between 1st January and 30th June 2025. This marks a 13.1% rise compared to the same period in 2024. Zayed International Airport (AUH) was instrumental in this growth, accommodating 15.5 million passengers, reflecting a 13.2% year-on-year increase.

The first half of 2025 saw a total of 133,533 flights across Abu Dhabi's five airports, marking a 9.2% increase from the previous year. AUH alone recorded 93,858 aircraft movements, an increase of 11.4% compared to the first half of 2024 when it registered 84,286 flights.

Abu Dhabi Airports is focused on expanding its global reach as part of its growth strategy. In the first six months of the year, the network introduced 16 new destinations and welcomed new airline partners. Noteworthy additions include China Eastern Airlines' four-times-weekly service to Shanghai, which will become daily in September.

Air Seychelles has introduced six weekly flights, while Fly Cham has launched services to Damascus. IndiGo has also expanded its operations at AUH with new routes to Madurai, Bhubaneswar, and Vishakhapatnam, solidifying AUH as IndiGo's most connected hub in the UAE.

Cargo operations at Abu Dhabi Airports have shown remarkable growth, underscoring the emirate's increasing role in global trade. In H1 2025, a total of 344,795 tonnes of cargo were handled year-to-date. This growth is supported by strategic partnerships and ongoing infrastructure improvements.

A significant joint venture agreement was signed with JD Property from China's e-commerce giant JD.com. This partnership will develop a cutting-edge 70,000sqm facility designed to meet rising east-west e-commerce and specialised cargo logistics demands throughout the GCC and broader MENA region.

Infrastructure Enhancements and Awards

The first half of 2025 also saw several strategic milestones across Abu Dhabi Airports’ network. Rehabilitation works at Sir Bani Yas Airport were completed, showcasing a commitment to enhancing the UAE’s aviation infrastructure and supporting Al Dhafra’s eco-tourism goals.

AUH received notable recognition for its construction efforts with a prestigious 3 Pearl Estidama rating and was named ‘Best Airport at Arrivals Globally’ for the third consecutive year at the ACI ASQ Awards.

Innovations in Aviation Services

At Al Bateen Executive Airport, collaboration with Bombardier led to establishing a dedicated service facility. This advancement enhances Abu Dhabi's maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, positioning the emirate as a centre of excellence for aviation services.

A new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with TAQA Distribution aims to explore integrating next-generation utility technologies across airport portfolios. This aligns with Abu Dhabi Airports’ long-term vision for innovation and sustainable development.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports stated: "Consistently delivering positive growth for the past 17 quarters is testament to the dedication and collective effort of the entire Abu Dhabi Airports team. It reflects our operational agility and commitment to delivering an exceptional aviation experience and attracting international investors."

With inputs from WAM