Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi has been crowned the world’s most beautiful airport.
The airport secured the top spot from over 400 global air hubs at this year’s Prix Versailles international architecture awards, held at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris on Tuesday.
Named after the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the airport surpassed Mexico’s Felipe Angeles International Airport in Zumpango, which honors the country’s indigenous cultural heritage, to claim first place.
Other airports featured in the rankings included Changi International Airport’s Terminal 2, praised for its interiors, and Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, recognized for its impressive exteriors. Additionally, Logan International Airport Terminal E in Boston and Kansas City International Airport in the United States were among the top contenders.
The Midfield Terminal, or Terminal A, at Zayed International Airport was celebrated for its striking design, particularly its sculptural roof inspired by desert sand dunes. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox architects, the roof casts shadows on the surrounding landscape and is visible from miles away. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it serves a practical function by shading the building, reducing energy consumption.
Dominating the Abu Dhabi skyline, the airport’s roof is both captivating and awe-inspiring. Passing through the glass-fronted entrance, travelers walk beneath a 50-meter-tall facade that evokes a sense of grandeur. Inside, the sky-high arches add to the architectural marvel.
The terminal is designed in the shape of an X, with four piers representing the city’s natural elements: desert, sea, city, and oasis. Cultural influences are woven throughout the airport’s design, from Islamic geometric patterns to traditional crafts and artifacts displayed in designated areas. Visitors are also welcomed with Emirati hospitality, with Arabian coffee and dates offered throughout the terminal.