Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Interim CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, anticipates that the airport will welcome over 22 million travelers by the end of 2023. The inauguration of Terminal A solidifies the capital’s global gateway status and strategic hub for tourism and trade.
Addressing a press round-table at the new Terminal A, Sorlini based her projections on solid performance indicators, with winter expected to bring significant demand coinciding with major events like the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and COP28. December alone is projected to receive around 2.29 million travelers.
Passenger numbers have grown by 49% since October, with the winter seasons expected to witness a 20% increase in daily flights, reaching approximately 410 compared to 340 in the previous summer. Terminal A, designed for 45 million passengers annually, is working to achieve full capacity, aligning with Etihad Airways’ plan to triple passengers by 2030.
Sorlini noted the top five destinations in terms of passenger numbers and ticket sales, including Mumbai, London, Kochi, Delhi, and Doha. Terminal A’s capacity increase allows airlines to respond to growing demand, positioning Abu Dhabi as an aviation hub.
With biometric technology for streamlined processes, 35,000 square meters of retail and F&B space, and 163 outlets, Terminal A enhances the end-to-end travel experience for all passengers and those transferring to other destinations.
