Airport traffic growth continues to drive momentum in Abu Dhabi as Zayed International Airport reported handling 15.5 million passengers during the first half of 2025. This figure represents a 13.2 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Officials credit this rise to the expansion of Etihad Airways and the arrival of new airlines.
Furthermore, Abu Dhabi Airports confirmed that total passenger traffic across its five airports reached 15.8 million between January and June. This marks 17 straight quarters of airport traffic growth. The five airports include Zayed International, Al Ain International, Al Bateen Executive, Delma Island, and Sir Bani Yas Island Airport.
Elena Sorlini, managing director and CEO at Abu Dhabi Airports, said the strong mid-year results highlight network resilience. She noted that collaboration with partners continues to fuel success despite ongoing regional challenges.
Tensions escalated recently due to an Iranian strike near a US base in Qatar. Despite that, air travel remained largely unaffected in Abu Dhabi. Brief closures did occur, but operations quickly returned to normal.
Meanwhile, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi plans to halt operations from the emirate starting in September. However, 16 new destinations were added to Zayed International’s network this year. These include routes by China Eastern Airlines, Air Seychelles, and Fly Cham. Additionally, IndiGo expanded service to three more Indian cities.
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi also announced fleet growth. By adding four Airbus A320s, the airline plans to increase capacity by 40 percent in 2025.
Etihad Airways saw impressive growth, carrying 10.2 million passengers in the first six months. This marked a 17 percent increase over the same period last year. The average load factor reached 87 percent, indicating strong demand.
Etihad now aims to carry 38 million passengers by 2030, up from an earlier goal of 33 million. CEO Antonoaldo Neves explained that the airline will grow by 15 percent annually and add 20 planes per year. Etihad is also expanding joint ventures with Ethiopian Airlines and China Eastern.
As Abu Dhabi targets international tourists and business visitors, airport traffic growth remains a key indicator. The emirate continues to invest in attractions and MICE events to support rising demand.
Sorlini stated that Abu Dhabi’s airports are ready to scale operations. She emphasized the importance of aligning airport development with the capital’s growing tourism and trade ambitions.
