Abu Dhabi Airports moves 344,795 tonnes of cargo in H1 2025

Abu Dhabi Airports has recorded strong air cargo growth in the first half of 2025, moving a total of 344,795 tonnes across its network between January 1 and June 30. The figure underscores the emirate’s rising importance in global trade and reflects the success of strategic partnerships and infrastructure enhancements.

A major driver of this growth is the airport group’s focus on advanced logistics capabilities, including a landmark joint venture agreement with JD Property, the infrastructure arm of Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com. The deal will deliver a 70,000 sqm tech-enabled facility at Zayed International Airport (AUH), designed to meet surging east-west e-commerce flows and specialised cargo demand across the GCC and MENA region.

The planned facility will integrate cutting-edge automation, smart warehousing systems, and advanced handling capabilities to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional logistics powerhouse. Officials say it will also enhance the emirate’s ability to handle time-critical, temperature-sensitive, and high-value cargo.

Abu Dhabi Airports’ cargo growth comes alongside continued investment in operational efficiency and sustainability. Infrastructure upgrades, digital tracking innovations, and expanded cargo handling capacity are key components of the group’s long-term strategy to attract global freight operators and integrators.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said the strong H1 cargo performance reflects the group’s commitment to driving economic diversification through trade and logistics. “Our cargo strategy is designed to position Abu Dhabi as a critical hub for global supply chains, meeting the needs of rapidly evolving markets,” she said.

With sustained demand from e-commerce, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals, Abu Dhabi Airports is set to continue expanding its cargo network, reinforcing the emirate’s role as a vital link in global logistics.