Zayed International Airport (AUH) in Abu Dhabi has been named Best Airport for Retail at the Frontier Awards 2025, solidifying its standing as one of the world’s premier destinations for travel, retail, and design excellence.
The announcement was made during the TFWA World Exhibition & Conference in Cannes, a year after AUH earned a Highly Commended recognition in the same awards. This latest win follows a growing list of global honors, including being declared the World’s Most Beautiful Airport at the Prix Versailles in 2024.
At the same event, Presentedby – Avolta received the award for Best Speciality Concept for their creative retail approach at AUH, a recognition that comes on top of their recent Platinum Award at the London Design Awards 2025.
The Frontier Awards are among the highest distinctions in travel retail, honoring innovation, creativity, and commercial excellence across the globe.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “I am immensely proud of our team’s dedication over the past two years in positioning Zayed International Airport among the world’s leading retail destinations. These global recognitions reaffirm our belief that airports can enrich, delight, and embody the spirit and ambition of Abu Dhabi.” She extended thanks to AUH’s partners and concessionaires, stressing that collaboration has been key to delivering a world-class passenger experience.
Since opening in November 2023, AUH has built a curated retail environment featuring more than 163 outlets over 37,500 square meters, blending global luxury brands with authentic UAE hospitality. Its continuous growth is fueled by strong passenger traffic, with double-digit increases recorded for 17 straight quarters, including a 44.5% rise in 2023 and another 28% in 2024.
