Ruth Haines
Abu Dhabi International Airport's Terminal 2 was shut down in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in May 2022, the airport resumed operations at Terminal 2, citing an increase in passenger volume following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. More recently, in November 2023, Abu Dhabi International Airport opened its new Terminal A, marking a new era for aviation in the UAE. This new terminal is expected to significantly increase passenger capacity and strengthen Abu Dhabi's position as a global aviation hub.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Terminal | A |
| Reopening Date | 1 November 2023 |
| Official Name | Zayed International Airport |
| Official Name Change Date | 9 February 2024 |
| Number of Phases | 3 |
| Number of Flights in First 7 Days of Operations | 637 |
| Number of Airlines Transitioning to Terminal A | 28 |
| Number of Outlets | 163 |
| Area of Retail and F&B Space | 35,000 square metres |
| Number of Passengers Processed Annually | 45 million |
| Number of Planes Handled Simultaneously | 79 |
| Number of Passengers Handled Per Hour | 11,000 |
| Number of Volunteers Involved in Operational Readiness Trials | 11,000 |
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What You'll Learn
Abu Dhabi International Airport's Terminal A opened on 1 November 2023
On 1 November 2023, Abu Dhabi International Airport inaugurated Terminal A, marking a significant milestone in the emirate's aviation history. This new terminal, previously known as the Midfield Terminal Building during its construction, is set to become a gateway to the world for Abu Dhabi, enhancing its reputation in the travel industry. Terminal A will open in three phases over a two-week period, with the first phase commencing on 1 November.
The opening of Terminal A is a result of the multi-billion-dollar investments in Abu Dhabi's attractions, such as the Louvre and the Guggenheim, which aim to boost the emirate's tourism sector. With a capacity to handle 45 million passengers annually, the terminal will more than double the airport's capacity, strengthening Abu Dhabi's position as a global aviation hub. The terminal will be able to accommodate 79 planes simultaneously and process 11,000 passengers per hour, showcasing its significant contribution to the aviation sector's growth.
The design of Terminal A is impressive, spanning nearly 8 million square feet and featuring modern and lightweight aesthetics. The building is considered an architectural landmark, with a glass exterior that provides natural lighting. It also aligns with the United Arab Emirates' sustainability goals, incorporating advanced HVAC systems and photovoltaic panels that contribute to significant carbon dioxide savings annually.
Terminal A is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including leading biometric technology, that streamline the screening and boarding processes. Passengers will enjoy an enhanced travel experience with 35,000 square metres of retail and F&B space, offering a wide variety of shopping and dining options, including well-known brands such as Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, and the world's first Muji airport store. The terminal also features luxurious lounges and world-class amenities, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for travellers.
The opening of Terminal A is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Abu Dhabi Airports team, led by Managing Director and Interim Chief Executive Officer, Elena Sorlini. The successful operational readiness trials, involving 11,000 volunteers, ensured a smooth and efficient experience for passengers and stakeholders. The official opening ceremony for Zayed International Airport, the new official name, is set to take place on 9 February 2024, marking a new era for aviation in Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
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Terminal A will be fully operational from 15 November 2023
Terminal A of Abu Dhabi International Airport will be fully operational from the 15th of November 2023. The terminal, which opened on 1 November, is introducing flights in three phases over a two-week period. Etihad Airways’ ceremonial flight took place on 31 October, ahead of the public opening on 1 November.
The new terminal will bring a significant increase in capacity for Abu Dhabi's commercial aviation sector, more than doubling the number of passengers with the facilities to process up to 45 million travellers annually. The terminal will further strengthen Abu Dhabi's global standing as an aviation hub, capable of handling 79 planes at once and 11,000 passengers per hour.
The terminal will also enhance the travel experience for all passengers, with leading facilities, including biometric technology to streamline the screening and boarding process, 35,000 square metres of retail and F&B space, and 163 outlets for passengers to shop, dine and enjoy. The terminal is also equipped with luxurious lounges and world-class amenities.
The new terminal is considered an architectural landmark in Abu Dhabi, incorporating modern and lightweight aesthetics, with a glass exterior that provides natural lighting. The building aligns with the United Arab Emirates' sustainability goals and is equipped with advanced Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) systems built with sustainable materials.
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The airport's new name is Zayed International Airport
The new state-of-the-art Terminal A at Abu Dhabi International Airport welcomed its first passengers on November 1, 2023, marking a new era in UAE aviation history. The airport's name will change to Zayed International Airport from February 9, 2024, coinciding with the official opening ceremony of Terminal A. Zayed International Airport, formerly known as Abu Dhabi International Airport, is located in the UAE and is connected to the Emirate and its surroundings, including Dubai and Al Ain, by a highway network.
The new terminal will significantly increase the airport's capacity, more than doubling the number of passengers it can accommodate annually to 45 million. The terminal will also enhance the travel experience for passengers, offering 35,000 square meters of retail and F&B space, 163 shops and food and beverage outlets, and leading facilities, including biometric technology to streamline screening and boarding. Zayed International Airport will further strengthen Abu Dhabi's position as a global aviation hub, capable of handling 79 planes simultaneously and 11,000 passengers per hour.
The opening of Terminal A is a significant milestone for Abu Dhabi Airports, with the transition to the new terminal occurring in three phases over a two-week period. Etihad Airways, the main carrier based at the airport, operated the first flight from Terminal A on October 31, 2023, with Wizz Air Abu Dhabi and 15 other international airlines following suit on November 1. From November 9, Etihad Airways operated 16 daily flights before becoming fully operational from its new home on November 14, along with Air Arabia Abu Dhabi and ten other airlines. By November 14, 2023, 28 airlines were fully operational from Terminal A.
The successful opening of Terminal A is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Abu Dhabi Airports team and its partners. The new terminal will play a pivotal role in driving the growth of the aviation sector in Abu Dhabi and attracting more businesses and tourists to the emirate for years to come. The airport operator is committed to enhancing the airport experience for passengers, as evidenced by the introduction of retail and duty-free services, providing travellers with a full range of options before their flights.
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Terminal 2 reopened in May 2022
In March 2020, Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) closed Terminal 2 due to declining passenger demand and to limit the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak. Two years later, in May 2022, the airport decided to reopen Terminal 2. This decision was made in response to the rebound in passenger numbers, with Abu Dhabi International Airport handling 2.56 million passengers in the first quarter of 2022, a more than fourfold increase from the same period in 2021. The relaxation of travel restrictions to and from various countries, such as India, Australia, and Singapore, contributed to this surge in passenger numbers.
At the time of Terminal 2's reopening in May 2022, five airlines, including Air India and Air India Express, were already operating more than 50 weekly flights from the terminal. To further increase capacity, 21 additional weekly flights were scheduled for May, along with the reintroduction of retail and duty-free services, providing passengers with a full range of options before their flights.
The reopening of Terminal 2 at Abu Dhabi International Airport demonstrates the recovery of the aviation industry from the coronavirus-induced slowdown. With multibillion-dollar investments in attractions such as Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Guggenheim, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a leading tourist destination. Etihad Airways, a major contributor to the airport's growth, expressed cautious optimism about the travel outlook for 2022, citing strong passenger demand and steady cargo rates.
While Terminal 2's reopening in May 2022 was a significant development, it is worth noting that Abu Dhabi International Airport continued to expand and enhance its facilities. In November 2023, the airport introduced Terminal A, which brought a major increase in passenger capacity and further strengthened Abu Dhabi's global standing as an aviation hub. The new terminal features state-of-the-art facilities, including biometric technology for screening and boarding, extensive retail and F&B options, and enhanced travel experiences for passengers and airlines.
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Terminal 2 closed in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic
In March 2020, Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) closed Terminal 2 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The closure was due to a decline in passenger demand and an effort to limit the spread of the virus. This decision was made in conjunction with other airports around the world, including Changi International Airport (SIN) in Singapore, which also closed its Terminal 2 in May 2020. The closure of Terminal 2 in Abu Dhabi International Airport affected several airlines, including Biman Bangladesh, AirBlue, and Sudan Airways, which were transitioned to Terminal 1.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the aviation industry, with a sharp decline in passenger numbers and strict restrictions on travel. As a result, many airports were forced to adjust their operations and implement safety measures to limit the spread of the virus. In the case of Abu Dhabi International Airport, the closure of Terminal 2 was a necessary step to ensure the safety of passengers and staff while also managing the reduced demand for air travel.
During the pandemic, AUH continued to operate with its three remaining passenger terminals. Etihad Airways, the flagship carrier of Abu Dhabi, operates out of Terminal 3. The closure of Terminal 2 allowed the airport to consolidate its operations and optimise its resources to handle the reduced passenger volume safely and efficiently.
In May 2022, after a two-year closure, Abu Dhabi International Airport reopened Terminal 2. This decision was made in response to the gradual recovery of the aviation industry and the increase in passenger numbers. The reopening of Terminal 2 was a positive sign of the rebound in air travel demand and a step towards restoring normal operations at the airport.
As of November 2023, Abu Dhabi International Airport has introduced a new Terminal A, which is expected to further enhance the airport's capacity and reputation in the travel industry. With state-of-the-art facilities and advanced technology, the new terminal is set to offer an improved travel experience for passengers and strengthen Abu Dhabi's position as a global aviation hub.
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Frequently asked questions
Abu Dhabi Airport reopened Terminal 2 in May 2022.
Abu Dhabi Airport closed Terminal 2 in March 2020 due to declining passenger demand and to limit the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Abu Dhabi Airport's Terminal A opened on 1 November 2023.
The new official name of Abu Dhabi Airport is Zayed International Airport, which will take effect from 9 February 2024.
The new Terminal A at Abu Dhabi Airport can accommodate up to 45 million passengers per year, processing 11,000 travellers per hour and handling 79 aircraft at any given time.
