The building is considered an architectural landmark in Abu Dhabi.
- Abu Dhabi International Airport is set to open its brand new state-of-the-art Terminal A in a few months.
- The terminal, known as the Midfield Terminal Building during construction, covers nearly 8 million square feet and will handle 11,000 travelers per hour.
- Equipped with the latest technologies, including interconnected biometric systems and a large baggage handling system, the terminal aims to provide a seamless passenger journey.
Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) is putting the final touches on its brand new state-of-the-art terminal, set to open in November. The airport, referring to the new facility as ‘Terminal A,’ said the terminal will be able to accommodate nearly 80 aircraft.
The terminal’s debut is a long time coming, as it was initially slated to open in 2017. Amid the delays over the years, as many as 20,000 people worked to construct the massive terminal.
11,000 passengers every hour
Abu Dhabi Airports, the owner and operator of AUH, announced on Thursday that the new facility is scheduled to begin operations in early November. It is expected to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s reputation in the travel industry. During its construction phase, the facility was referred to as the Midfield Terminal Building, but it will be known as Terminal A moving forward.
As one of the largest airport terminals in the world, the facility covers nearly 8 million square feet and will accommodate up to 45 million passengers per year, processing 11,000 travelers per hour and handling 79 aircraft at any given time.
“The latest technologies”
The terminal is also equipped with industry-changing technology, allowing passengers to pass through seamlessly. A range of interconnected biometric systems installed are expected to provide a digitized journey from pre-travel to boarding thanks to self-service kiosks, streamlined security checkpoints, and reportedly the world’s largest baggage handling system.
Abu Dhabi Airports Managing Director & Interim CEO Elena Sorlini spoke about the new facility.
Architectural elements
Despite being operational, the terminal has already won international design awards, according to Abu Dhabi Airports. The building, also considered a landmark in Abu Dhabi, incorporates modern and lightweight aesthetics, with a glass exterior that provides natural lighting.
The terminal also aligns with the United Arab Emirates’ sustainability goals and is equipped with advanced Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) systems built with sustainable materials. Fully integrated photovoltaic panels situated on the roof of the terminal’s parking area will help to save more than 5,000 tonnes of CO2 per year.
“As Abu Dhabi’s new gateway to the world, Terminal A is an embodiment of Abu Dhabi Airports’ commitment to support the emirate’s sustainable economic development, “Chairman of Abu Dhabi Airports, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, explained. “The opening of the facility, which is on par with the largest and grandest on our planet, turns over a new page in Abu Dhabi’s 55-year aviation history.”
Terminal A will also feature luxurious lounges and world-class amenities. Over 160 retail and restaurants will provide several options, appealing to both leisure and business travelers.
By Sohail Majeed
