Zayed International Airport unveils unique Terminal A

New facility set to serve as a global gateway

Zayed International Airport, formerly known as Abu Dhabi International Airport, has inaugurated its new Terminal A, marking a significant milestone in the aviation landscape of the United Arab Emirates.

The airport’s renaming follows the directive of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, at the end of last year.

Designed and executed by the renowned architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), Terminal A stands as a civic landmark for Abu Dhabi, blending the inspiration from the desert’s dunes and the rich geometric patterns of Islamic heritage.

In the movie

The terminal, featured in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, is set to be a global gateway connecting the East and West.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Interim CEO at Abu Dhabi Airports, expressed pride in Terminal A, saying: “Our primary focus is always on our customers and passengers as we make them the centre of everything we do.

“The terminal, designed with an X-shaped layout for operational efficiency and passenger flow, is poised to process up to 45 million passengers annually, doubling the airport’s current capacity.

President of Kohn Pedersen Fox, James von Klemperer, noted: “Terminal A is a showcase for Abu Dhabi, and its attention to detail, functionality, and an inclusive and inspiring design elevates the experience of travelling for all.”

Architectural design

The terminal’s architectural design blends modern materials, light, and open spaces.

Mustafa Chehabeddine, Design Principal at KPF, highlighted the goal of creating a design that represents the city of Abu Dhabi, incorporating cultural and natural elements.

The terminal’s iconic features, including Sana Al Nour, the Feature Staircase, and the Shell, add aesthetic appeal and functionality to the overall design.

Jochen Tombers, Managing Principal at Kohn Pedersen Fox, noted: “Zayed International Airport, Terminal A is truly a masterpiece that will usher in a new era of airport terminals.”

Terminal A sets a new standard for passenger experience with an average kerb-to-gate walking time of only 12 minutes, thanks to its innovative X-shaped plan.

Jens Hardvendel, Director at Kohn Pedersen Fox, highlighted the focus on customer experience and comfort while maintaining efficiency.

Regarding technology, Terminal A is set to be the first in the world to include all nine biometric airport touchpoints, ensuring a seamless and efficient passenger journey.

Mega arches

The terminal’s design anticipates the everchanging nature of air travel, providing unprecedented flexibility through mega arches instead of fixed columns.

Shiju Balakrishnan, Director at Kohn Pedersen Fox, acknowledged Terminal A’s construction challenges, noting the team’s dedication and creativity that resulted in a state-of-the-art terminal inspiring wonder.

With 28 airlines, 117 global destinations, and 163 retail and food & beverage concessions, Terminal A is poised to be a global hub, reflecting the vision of Abu Dhabi as a prominent player in the Middle East aviation industry.

The terminal’s commitment to sustainability is evident with features such as over 7,500 solar panels powering a 3MW plant and achieving Estidama 3 Pearls certification.

Terminal A – Facts and figures:

• Up to 45 million passengers a year

• 11,000 passengers per hour

• 12 minutes average walking time from kerb to gate

• 45 minutes fastest transfer connection time

• The world’s first airport to feature all nine passenger biometric touchpoints

• Featured in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One

• 28 airlines

• 117 global destinations

• 163 retail and food & beverage concessions and two health and beauty spas

• One-roof terminal—maximum arch spans 180 metres

• Maximum roof width of 319 metres

• 50-metre-tall, free-standing glazed façade

• 50-metre-high departure hall

• Estidama 3 Pearls

• More than 7,500 solar panels powering a 3MW plant

• The airport was formerly named Abu Dhabi International Airport

Featured image Terminal A’s architectural design blends modern materials, light, and open spaces. Image: Victor Romero/KPF