UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has directed that Al Ain International Airport be renamed Tahnoun International Airport, with the new name taking effect from October 11.
A New Name For Al Ain’s Gateway
The renaming honours the late Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, in recognition of his decades of dedicated service to the UAE. According to WAM, the President’s initiative reflects values of loyalty and gratitude to the founding generation, whose wisdom, dedication and commitment helped build the nation at different stages of its progress.
Who Was Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan?
Sheikh Tahnoun served as Abu Dhabi Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region and passed away in May 2024 at the age of 82. He was a close companion of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and was also his brother-in-law through the marriage of his sister, Sheikha Hessa, to Sheikh Zayed. He previously served as Vice Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
His first official role came on September 11, 1966, when he was appointed Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Chairman of Al Ain Municipality. He was known for his close ties and direct communication with the people of the city.
A Tribute Already Carried In Al Ain
This is not the first time his name has been used to honour his service. In November 2018, the road linking Al Ain and Dubai was renamed after him. The airport now joins that tribute, giving visitors arriving in the Garden City a daily reminder of the man who shaped much of its growth.
What It Means For Travellers
The official announcement concerns the airport’s name, and no operational changes were mentioned in the statement. If you are flying in or out of Al Ain, you may start to see the new name on signage, airline communications, and booking platforms. It is worth checking your airline’s latest updates if you have an upcoming trip.
Also Read: A Newbie Restaurant Serves New York-Style By-The-Slice Pizzas HERE In Al Ain!
Why Al Ain Matters
Al Ain is one of the UAE’s most historic cities, known for its oases and cultural sites that are recognised by UNESCO. Its airport serves as an important entry point for those exploring the region, which now carries a name rooted in the city’s own story.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikipedia/Bjoertvedt
FAQs
Will my booking be affected by the name change?
The official announcement covers the name only and mentions no operational changes. If you have an upcoming trip, check with your airline for any updates to booking details.
Who was Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan?
He was Abu Dhabi Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region and a close companion of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He passed away in May 2024 at the age of 82. The Al Ain–Dubai road was renamed after him in 2018.
What has Al Ain International Airport been renamed?
It is now Tahnoun International Airport, following a directive from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
