Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, located at the city’s Midfield Terminal, has been named as the most beautiful airport in the world at the 2024 Prix Versailles International Architecture Awards, held at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris. The terminal, also known as Terminal A, received praise for its cutting-edge design and commitment to sustainability, standing out among more than 400 international contenders.

Zayed International Airport: Architectural Marvel and Sustainable Design

Designed by renowned architects Kohn Pedersen Fox, Zayed International Airport features a striking undulating roof inspired by the Abu Dhabi desert landscape. This roof not only adds visual beauty but also serves an environmental purpose by providing natural shading to reduce energy usage. The terminal’s X-shaped structure, soaring to 50 metres, maximises space and incorporates eco-friendly materials, further reducing its carbon footprint. Each of the four piers within the terminal highlights a theme related to Abu Dhabi’s natural elements—sea, desert, city, and oasis—celebrating the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Abu Dhabi Airport: Sana Al Nour Installation and Future Growth

A key feature of the terminal is the Sana Al Nour, a 22-metre-tall glass installation suspended between arrivals and departures. Inspired by Islamic architecture, this 100-tonne artwork channels natural light into the terminal while improving airflow. The terminal, which spans over 750,000 square meters and opened in November 2023, has an annual capacity of 45 million passengers, with plans for future expansion to accommodate 80 million travelers. Zayed International Airport is now positioned as a major global hub, setting new standards for sustainable airport architecture.

Other Recognitions at Prix Versailles 2024

In addition to Zayed International Airport’s top honor, other airports were also recognized at the Prix Versailles 2024:

Felipe Ángeles International Airport, Mexico – Special Prize for Interior
Changi Airport Terminal 2, Singapore – Special Prize for Exterior
Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok – World Selection
Logan International Airport, Boston – World Selection
Kansas City International Airport, US – World Selection