Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi has officially been named the most beautiful airport in the world. The prestigious honor came during this year’s Prix Versailles international architecture awards, held at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris. The airport was selected from over 400 global air hubs, surpassing other notable contenders such as Felipe Angeles International Airport in Mexico and Changi International Airport’s Terminal 2 in Singapore.
A Stunning Architectural Marvel
Named in honor of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the airport’s design is nothing short of spectacular. Its Midfield Terminal, also known as Terminal A, stands out with its distinctive sculptural roof, which draws inspiration from the desert’s rolling sand dunes. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox, this innovative roof is not only visually striking but also serves a functional purpose. Its undulating form helps shade the building, reducing energy consumption and contributing to the airport’s sustainability goals.
The terminal’s bold design begins well before passengers step inside. The iconic roof dominates the skyline, creating a breathtaking first impression. Upon entering, travelers walk under a towering 50-meter facade, giving them a sense of awe. Inside, the high-reaching arches and expansive space further enhance the terminal’s grandeur.
Cultural Richness and Emirati Hospitality
Zayed International Airport’s design is infused with elements that reflect Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural heritage. The terminal’s layout follows an X-shape, with four piers representing key elements of the region: desert, sea, city, and oasis. Traditional Islamic geometric patterns are woven throughout the design, and areas within the terminal display local crafts and artifacts. Travelers can also experience Emirati hospitality, with complimentary offerings of Arabian coffee and dates throughout the airport.
One of the airport’s most stunning features is the Sana Al Nour installation in the arrivals hall. Standing 22 meters tall, this vase-like sculpture is a nod to Islamic architecture and is one of the largest public artworks in the Middle East. Made up of 1,632 glass panels, it emits a pearlescent glow by day and transforms at night under colored LED lights. Not only is it a visual marvel, but it also contributes to the airport’s energy-saving airflow system.
Iconic Sculptural Elements and Panoramic Views
The architectural design at Zayed International Airport is punctuated by the Shell – a sculptural feature made from glass, polished brass, and steel. This work of art, inspired by Abu Dhabi’s maritime heritage, is both an aesthetic focal point and an orientation marker for passengers.
Arriving passengers are treated to some of the best views of the airport. The Feature Staircase, which links the arrivals corridor to the central hall, provides panoramic views of the entire space, further enhancing the sense of openness and grandeur.
Functionality Meets Innovation
While the airport’s beauty is undeniable, it is also designed with cutting-edge technology to improve the passenger experience. The X-shape layout optimizes movement, reducing the walking distance for passengers whether they’re arriving, departing, or transiting. Self-service kiosks and modern check-in counters ensure smooth and efficient processing, while biometric technology speeds up security screening.
As part of its Smart Travel project, Zayed International Airport is on track to integrate AI-driven biometric authentication into all security checkpoints by 2025. The airport also offers preclearance facilities for U.S.-bound travelers, allowing them to clear U.S. immigration before departure, simplifying the arrival process in the U.S.
Regional Recognition at the Prix Versailles
Zayed International Airport’s win at the Prix Versailles is a reflection of its architectural and functional excellence, but it wasn’t the only regional project to be recognized. In addition to the airport’s victory, Raffles Al Areen Palace in Bahrain, The Ned Doha in Qatar, and the Oman Across the Ages museum in Manah also received accolades for their design. The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza was another standout, further highlighting the region’s growing influence in global design and architecture.
