Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, underscoring the country's drive to cement its standing as a world-leading travel and aviation destination.
Visit Highlights at Zayed International Airport
During the tour, Sheikh Mohammed reviewed the UAE's ongoing efforts to strengthen its position as a global leader across industries and sectors. He highlighted the strengths of the country's travel and tourism sector, calling for continuous work to enhance the UAE's international standing and to advance a development model built on people's well-being and happiness.
Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, was among the senior officials present during the visit.
Terminal A: One of the World's Largest Airport Terminals
Officials briefed Sheikh Mohammed on the impressive scale of Zayed International Airport. The airport covers 742,000 square metres and has the capacity to accommodate up to 45 million passengers per year — with the potential to expand to 80 million.
Terminal A, which opened in November 2023, can accommodate 79 aircraft simultaneously and process 11,000 passengers per hour, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a major international aviation centre.
Etihad Airways Lounge and Sustainability Initiatives
Sheikh Mohammed visited the Etihad Airways First-Class Lounge and was briefed on the operational performance of Terminal A. He noted the terminal's commitment to sustainability, with a range of green initiatives integrated into its design and operations that enhance the overall passenger experience.
The airport was renamed Zayed International Airport this year in honour of the UAE's Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose vision elevated the nation's global competitiveness and prestige.
Senior Officials Present
Sheikh Mohammed was joined by:
- Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group - Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council - Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan
The visit reinforced the UAE's intention to keep investing in world-class transport infrastructure, backed by a clear national vision and a committed Emirati workforce.
