Published on
August 14, 2025
Abu Dhabi Airports has formed a strategic partnership with IndiGo, aiming to fuel double-digit growth in passenger traffic. This collaboration marks the 17th consecutive quarter of expansion, showcasing a steadfast commitment to enhancing global connectivity. The partnership underlines Abu Dhabi Airports’ pivotal role in driving economic growth and reinforcing its standing as a key aviation hub, while also fostering stronger travel ties between the UAE and India.
Abu Dhabi Airports is reinforcing its role as a major catalyst for economic growth and global connectivity, with double-digit passenger traffic growth for the 17th consecutive quarter, alongside strong increases in flight movements and cargo volume during the first half of 2025. From January 1 to June 30, 2025, the airports in Abu Dhabi hosted over 15.8 million passengers, marking a notable 13.1% year-over-year growth compared to the first half of 2024. Zayed International Airport (AUH) was instrumental in driving this surge, handling 15.5 million passengers, a 13.2% increase from the previous year. The rise in passenger numbers was further supported by 133,533 total flight movements across Abu Dhabi’s five airports, reflecting a 9.2% rise from the same period in 2024. Specifically, AUH recorded 93,858 aircraft movements, showing an 11.4% increase over the previous year’s figure of 84,286 flights.
As part of its continued expansion, Abu Dhabi Airports remains committed to broadening its global reach. In the first half of 2025, the network introduced 16 new destinations and welcomed additional airline partners. Key developments include China Eastern Airlines’ four-times-weekly service to Shanghai, which will increase to daily flights in September, Air Seychelles’ six weekly flights, and Fly Cham’s newly launched service to Damascus. Additionally, IndiGo expanded its operations at AUH with new routes to Madurai, Bhubaneswar, and Vishakhapatnam, further solidifying AUH as IndiGo’s most connected hub in the UAE.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “The first six months
of this year have posed some operational challenges, yet our expectational mid-year results demonstrate the
resilience of our network and the collaborative partnerships that underpin our growth. Consistently delivering
positive growth for the past 17 quarters is testament to the dedication and collective effort of the entire Abu
Dhabi Airports team. It reflects our operational agility and commitment to delivering an exceptional aviation
experience and attracting international investors. As Abu Dhabi’s tourism and trade prospects rapidly advance,
our airports are well positioned to support and scale that growth.”
Abu Dhabi Airports also demonstrated significant growth in cargo operations highlighting the emirate’s
growing significance in global trade. In the first six months of 2025, it handled a total of 344,795 tonnes of
cargo year-to-date, bolstered by strategic partnerships and ongoing infrastructure enhancements. These
include a major joint venture agreement signed with JD Property, the infrastructure arm of China’s e-
commerce giant JD.com. The agreement will see the development of a state-of-the-art 70,000sqm advanced-
tech facility that aims to meet the growing east-west demand for e-commerce and specialised cargo logistics
throughout the GCC and broader MENA region.
The first half of 2025 was also marked by several strategic milestones across Abu Dhabi Airports’ network. The
completion of rehabilitation works at Sir Bani Yas Airport reflects the commitment to strengthening the UAE’s
aviation infrastructure and supporting Al Dhafra Region’s eco-tourism ambitions. AUH was awarded the
prestigious 3 Pearl Estidama rating for construction and was also recognised as the Best Airport at Arrivals
Globally for the third consecutive year at the ACI ASQ Awards, further reinforcing its role as a world-class
gateway to Abu Dhabi. At Al Bateen Executive Airport, Abu Dhabi Airports’ collaboration with Bombardier
progressed with the establishment of a dedicated service facility, advancing Abu Dhabi’s maintenance, repair,
and overhaul (MRO) capabilities to position the emirate as a centre of excellence for aviation services. A new
agreement signed with TAQA Distribution will explore the integration of next-generation utility technologies
across the airport portfolio, reinforcing Abu Dhabi Airports’ long-term vision for innovation and sustainable
development.
Abu Dhabi Airports has teamed up with IndiGo to boost passenger traffic, marking the 17th consecutive quarter of growth. This partnership enhances global connectivity, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s role as a major aviation hub. It highlights the ongoing commitment to expanding international travel ties, especially between the UAE and India.
Abu Dhabi Airports continues to propel its long-term growth agenda by prioritizing the expansion of international partnerships, progressing key infrastructure initiatives, and fostering sustainable innovations. These efforts solidify its position as a key driver of the UAE’s economic diversification and ambitions for global leadership in aviation.
