Zayed International Airport (AUH) has been named “Best Airport for Retail” at the 2025 Frontier Awards, held during the TFWA World Exhibition & Conference in Cannes.
The win highlights AUH’s growing global reputation for travel retail innovation and design, coming a year after it received a Highly Commended mention at the same awards and less than 12 months after being named the World’s Most Beautiful Airport by the Prix Versailles.
Retail and design recognition
The Frontier Awards are among the most respected honours in global travel retail, recognising excellence in commercial strategy, creativity and innovation. AUH’s latest award reflects its continued efforts to integrate high-end retail with a distinct passenger experience.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO 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. I would like to extend our gratitude to all our partners and concessionaires. Their collaboration and commitment to excellence are fundamental to our shared success and the world-class experience we offer. Through AUH, we proudly showcase the emirate’s vision and innovation to the world.”
Specialty concept honoured
Also recognised at the event was Presentedby – Avolta, which received the ‘Best Speciality Concept’ award for its retail offering at AUH. The concept, known for its blend of innovation and consumer engagement, had earlier won a Platinum Award at the London Design Awards 2025 in the interior design category for retail environments.
Retail driving airport growth
AUH’s retail zone features more than 163 retail and dining outlets across 37,500 square metres. Launched in November 2023, the terminal has been designed to combine international luxury brands with UAE cultural elements and hospitality.
The airport’s commercial success has paralleled strong passenger traffic growth. Abu Dhabi Airports has reported double-digit traffic increases for 17 straight quarters through mid-2025, with annual growth rates of 44.5% in 2023 and 28% in 2024.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
