Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF) has completed construction on a new terminal at Zayed International Airport in the UAE.The terminal's design draws inspiration from sand dunes and geometric motifs, reflecting the cultural and environmental context of Abu Dhabi. The terminal aims to increase capacity to accommodate up to 45 million passengers. Read more on SURFACES REPORTER (SR):
Design principal Mustafa Chehabeddine emphasized the importance of reflecting Abu Dhabi's essence in the terminal's design.
Sand-Dune Inspired Roof
The roof structure, inspired by sand dunes, helps mitigate the effects of the intense desert sun.
The departure hall is spacious, reaching a height of 50 meters, and is sheltered beneath a single 180-meter-long roof.
X-Shaped Terminal Design
The terminal features an X-shaped layout to enhance operational efficiency, with four distinct piers themed around "desert, sea, city, and oasis" to aid passenger navigation.
Two four-story buildings flanking the departure hall provide accommodation and office spaces for airport staff.
The design philosophy prioritizes enhancing the passenger experience, optimizing comfort, and maximizing efficiency. The inside showcases mosaic stone flooring along with spacious supporting arches.
"Landmarks" within the terminal help guide passengers and mitigate the scale of the space, including installations like Sana Al Nour and The Shell.
Sana Al Nour- Glass Leaves Tower
Sana Al Nour is a 22-meter-tall installation crafted from 1,632 individual curved glass leaves.
The Shell is a sculpture made from polished brass and corten steel encased in glass.
Photo courtesy: Victor Romero