08 Mar 2017 , Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Airports Council International (ACI) World has announced Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) as the winner of “Best Airport in the Middle East”, and “Most Improved Airport: Middle East”, in its annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards.

The ASQ Awards recognize airports around the globe that demonstrate a commitment to providing an excellent customer experience and they are given on the basis of passenger surveys that are supervised by ACI. Passengers give their views on a group of services offered to them, as well as rating their satisfaction with these services provided by the airport. The areas reviewed include airport access, check-in, security screening, stores, and restaurants amongst other services. 

Awards are then presented to those airports whose customers have rated them the highest over the course of the year.

Acting Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, Abdul Majeed Al Khoori, said: “We are heartened by the appreciation we are receiving from passengers through these prestigious international awards, and delighted that Abu Dhabi International Airport has won “Best Airport in the Middle East”, and “Most Improved Airport: Middle East”.  These awards are thanks to the hard work of our team at Abu Dhabi International Airport and our stakeholders, and reflects the team spirit of those working in the airport’s terminals to make sure that the passenger experience is as exceptional as possible. This international recognition is the best vote of confidence in our services, which we strive continuously to develop and enhance to meet the expectations of our unique passenger demographics, and to reflect the proud image of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.”

In the last year, Abu Dhabi Airports, in conjunction with the Ministry of Interior, and Abu Dhabi Police, launched its Smart Travel System at AUH, which allows passengers to check-in and move through immigration and security in within fifteen minutes, interacting only with cutting edge technology. 

The pioneering system consists of self-check-in and baggage drop facilities, automated passport control gates, and smart boarding gates. Smart Travel has significantly enhanced the passenger experience by decreasing processing times within the airport by up to 70%, meaning more time for travelers to enjoy the airport’s retail, leisure and food & beverage facilities. 

“We are proud of these awards as they move us closer towards our vision of being the world’s leading airports group” added Al Khoori. “I would like to thank our owners, our partners and our stakeholders including: Etihad Airways, Customs, Immigration, Airport Police and the General Authority for the Security of Ports, Borders and Free Zones, for their continued support, and our passengers who took part in the airport’s performance rating. I encourage those travelers who have not yet experience our warm Arabian hospitality and great service, to travel through Abu Dhabi International Airport in the near future.”

Abu Dhabi Airports was the first airport in the region to join Airports Council International, the trade association of the world’s airports, and winning the two awards of “Best Airport in the Middle East”, and “Most Improved Airport: Middle East” coincides with the tenth anniversary of the company’s membership with the organization.