Khaizuran RashidYes, you read that right! Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates has snagged the top spot at the 2024 Prix Versailles International Architecture Awards. Beating out over 400 contenders from across the globe, this stunning terminal has set a new benchmark for what airports can be – Blending jaw-dropping design with sustainability and a deep connection to the region’s cultural heritage.
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A Design Like No Other
Image credit: Abu Dhabi Airport | Official Facebook Page
When you step inside Zayed International Airport, you’ll immediately notice its striking, wave-like roof that seems to ripple across the terminal. Designed by the acclaimed firm Kohn Pedersen Fox, the roof takes inspiration from the rolling dunes of the desert, giving it a sense of movement and fluidity. It’s not just a pretty face, though. The roof is also highly functional, casting natural shade over the terminal to help reduce energy consumption.
Image credit: Visit Abu Dhabi | Official Website
But that’s not all! The terminal itself is an X-shaped wonder that soars 50 metres high, creating a sense of openness and space. Covering a sprawling 750,000 square metres, Zayed International Airport can currently handle a whopping 45 million passengers annually. The layout is designed to maximise floor space while offering a smooth, seamless travel experience.
Cultural Influences
Image credit: Zayed International Airport | Official Instagram
Zayed International Airport doesn’t just stop at breathtaking architecture. The architects designed the terminal’s four piers to reflect the region’s defining elements – Sea, desert, city, and oasis. This thoughtful thematic approach adds another layer of depth to the airport’s design, immersing travellers in the United Arab Emirates’ unique landscape and culture from the moment they arrive.
Sustainable and Green
Image credit: Abu Dhabi Airport | Official Facebook Page
As much as Zayed International Airport is a visual masterpiece, it’s also been designed with sustainability in mind. The airport’s green credentials are impressive, from the use of eco-friendly materials to the integration of solar power and natural ventilation. The architects designed the terminal to minimise its carbon footprint while maintaining airy, light-filled interiors.
The use of daylight to reduce the need for artificial lighting and the emphasis on energy and water efficiency all contribute to the airport’s eco-friendly ethos. In an era where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, Zayed International Airport is leading the way in creating greener travel hubs for the future.
A Landmark Victory
Image credit: Tiago Cardoso via Pexels
Winning the Prix Versailles overall prize is a huge achievement for the United Arab Emirates, marking the first time the country has received this prestigious award. The airport’s blend of futuristic design, cultural significance, and environmental consciousness has clearly impressed the judges. But Zayed International Airport didn’t just beat out the competition for the top prize; it also helped to redefine what an airport can be.
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It’s no doubt that this airport is setting the bar high for airports of the future. So next time you’re flying through Abu Dhabi, take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you! You might just find yourself enjoying the journey as much as the destination!
