That’s a strong 13.1 per cent jump from the same time last year
It’s been a sky-high start to the year for Abu Dhabi Airports, which just reported a major milestone; over 15.8 million passengers travelled through its airport network in the first half of 2025 alone.
That’s a strong 13.1 per cent jump from the same time last year, marking the 17th consecutive quarter of impressive double-digit growth.
At the heart of all this movement? None other than Zayed International Airport (AUH), which saw 15.5 million of those travellers pass through its gates between January and June. Whether you’re heading off to a tropical escape, a business meeting, or making a quick regional hop, chances are you’re passing through one of the most efficient (and increasingly award-winning) airports in the world.
Of course, it’s not just passenger traffic on the rise; the entire network is buzzing.
In total, Abu Dhabi’s five airports handled more than 133,500 flights, with AUH accounting for nearly 94,000 of them. And with flight movements rising over 11 per cent compared to last year, it’s clear: the capital’s skies are getting busier by the day.
A big part of that growth comes down to new destinations and airline partnerships. In the first half of 2025 alone, 16 new routes were added.
Standout additions include China Eastern Airlines’ new Shanghai service (which will go daily in September), Air Seychelles’ six weekly flights, and Fly Cham’s service to Damascus.
IndiGo is also upping its UAE game, launching routes to Madurai, Bhubaneswar, and Vishakhapatnam; making AUH its most connected hub in the Emirates.
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Over 344,000 tonnes of cargo were handled in the first six months of the year; a clear sign that Abu Dhabi is staking its claim as a global trade connector.
That effort is getting a major boost from a partnership with JD Property, the infrastructure arm of China’s e-commerce giant JD.com.
The joint venture will soon deliver a 70,000 sqm high-tech logistics facility designed to meet soaring e-commerce and cargo demand across the GCC and beyond.
There’s also been plenty happening behind the scenes to support this growth. Sir Bani Yas Airport underwent a round of infrastructure improvements, strengthening aviation access to the Al Dhafra region and supporting its eco-tourism goals
AUH, meanwhile, racked up even more accolades; taking home the Best Airport at Arrivals Globally award at the ACI ASQ Awards for the third year in a row, and earning a 3 Pearl Estidama rating for construction; a rare achievement in green airport infrastructure.
Put simply, 2025 is shaping up to be a defining year for Abu Dhabi Airports. From global connectivity to sustainability, infrastructure to innovation, the emirate is investing heavily in its aviation future; and those efforts are clearly taking flight.
Whether you’re a frequent flier or just planning your next getaway, Abu Dhabi’s airports are ready, waiting, and soaring to new heights.
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