Abu Dhabi: Ms. Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Interim Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, has stated that the airport will welcome over 22 million travelers by the end of 2023. The Managing Director also emphasized that the inauguration of Terminal A strengthens the capital’s status as a global gateway and a strategic hub for tourism and trade.
During the first press roundtable at Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new Terminal A building, Ms. Sorlini gave her end-of-year traveler expectations based on the airport’s recent strong performance indicators.
Ms. Sorlini added that winter is forecast to see significant demand from travelers, coinciding with major events hosted by the country, such as the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and COP28. Around 2.29 million travelers are expected to be received in December alone, as per the statement.
The passenger numbers have witnessed 49 percent growth since the beginning of October 2023, compared to the same period last year.
Ms. Sorlini pointed out that the current and upcoming winter seasons are anticipated to witness approximately 410 daily flights, compared to around 340 daily flights during last summer, representing an increase of over 20 percent between the two seasons.
With the capacity to handle 11,000 passengers per hour and 79 planes at once, Terminal A will enhance Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a major aviation hub worldwide. Airlines can expand their presence in Abu Dhabi in response to rising demand because of the increase in capacity.
The new terminal will boost the travel experience for all passengers with leading facilities, including biometric technology aimed at streamlining the screening and boarding process, 35,000 square meters of retail and FB space, and 163 outlets for passengers to shop, dine, and enjoy.