Al Ain International Airport Officially Renamed “Tahnoun International Airport“
The United Arab Emirates has renamed Al Ain International Airport as Tahnoun International Airport, following a directive from UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The new name officially came into effect on Sunday, October 11, 2026.
The decision honours the late Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan for his decades of service and his contributions to the development of the UAE. The announcement marks an important moment for Al Ain and the country’s aviation sector.
Why was Al Ain Airport Renamed?
The airport’s renaming recognises Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan’s longstanding contribution to the UAE’s growth and development.
Sheikh Tahnoun was a prominent figure in Abu Dhabi’s history and served as the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Ain Region for more than five decades. He was also a close companion and adviser to the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Throughout his career, Sheikh Tahnoun held several senior government positions, including Chairman of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Vice Chairman of Abu Dhabi’s Executive Council and Chairman of Al Ain Municipality.
The new airport name reflects the UAE leadership’s commitment to honouring the country’s founding generation and preserving its national legacy.
Tahnoun International Airport Details
| Detail | Information |
| Previous airport name | Al Ain International Airport |
| New official name | Tahnoun International Airport |
| Location | Al Ain, Abu Dhabi Emirate, UAE |
| Renaming announced by | UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan |
| Effective date | October 11, 2026 |
| Named in honour of | Late Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan |
| Reason for renaming | Recognition of his decades of service to the UAE |
What does the New Airport Name Mean for Travellers?
Travellers using the airport should be aware of the new official name when searching for airport information, checking travel updates or arranging ground transportation.
The announcement concerns the airport’s name. Travellers should not assume that their flight schedules, routes, ticket prices or booking arrangements have changed because of the renaming.
Passengers are advised to:
- Check flight bookings: Follow the details and instructions provided by your airline.
- Confirm airport information: Use official airport and airline channels for the latest travel updates.
- Arrange airport transfers: Make sure your driver or transport provider understands that Tahnoun International Airport is the new name for Al Ain International Airport.
- Check flight status: Verify departure and arrival information before travelling to the airport.
About Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan
Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan was one of the influential figures in the UAE’s early development. He served as the Ruler’s Representative in the Eastern Region of Abu Dhabi from 1971 and continued in the role for more than 50 years.
His responsibilities included government administration, municipal affairs and supporting the development of Al Ain. His work across several senior public-sector positions contributed to the establishment and growth of key institutions in the country.
Sheikh Tahnoun passed away on May 1, 2024, at the age of 82. Renaming the airport in his honour recognises his lasting contribution to the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the new name of Al Ain International Airport?
- Al Ain International Airport has been renamed Tahnoun International Airport.
2. When did Tahnoun International Airport get its new name?
- The new name took effect on October 11, 2026, following a directive from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
3. Why was Al Ain International Airport renamed?
- The airport was renamed in honour of the late Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan and his decades of dedicated service to the UAE.
4. Where is Tahnoun International Airport located?
- Tahnoun International Airport is located in Al Ain, within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
5. Do travellers need to change their flight tickets because of the renaming?
- The renaming announcement does not itself establish a requirement to change flight tickets. Passengers should follow their airline’s booking details and contact the airline if they have questions about their reservations.
Final Takeaway
The renaming of Al Ain International Airport to Tahnoun International Airport is a tribute to Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan and his decades of public service. Effective October 11, 2026, the new name recognises his contribution to Al Ain and the wider UAE.
For passengers, the key point is to recognise the airport’s updated official name and continue checking airline communications for accurate flight information.
