Carsten will oversee the full spectrum of the company’s commercial operations.
Abu Dhabi Airports the operator of the emirate’s five commercial airports, announces the appointment of Carsten Nørland as its new Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). With an extensive global track record in driving commercial strategy, revenue diversification, and customer-centric growth, Carsten will oversee the full spectrum of the company’s commercial operations including route development, retail, duty-free, F&B, property management, and commercial partnerships.
Carsten brings a wealth of experience in leading transformation and commercial performance across aviation, infrastructure, and FMCG sectors. As the former CEO of Scandlines, he led a company-wide transformation that delivered record-breaking freight and leisure traffic, significant financial gains, and long-term strategic repositioning.
His previous roles include SVP International and Managing Director Nordic & Central Europe at Royal Unibrew, and Vice President, Market & Sales at Copenhagen Airport. In his new role at Abu Dhabi Airports, Carsten will lead the development and execution of an integrated commercial strategy — spanning aeronautical revenue growth through airline partnerships and network expansion, as well as non-aeronautical revenue streams including commercial concessions, digital platforms, real estate, and passenger services.
“We are thrilled to welcome Carsten Nørland to the Abu Dhabi Airports leadership team,” said Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports. “His exceptional track record in transforming commercial operations and delivering sustainable growth aligns with our strategic goals as we continue to elevate our passenger experience and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub.”
Carsten joins at a time of significant momentum, following the successful launch of the new terminal at Zayed International Airport. His leadership will accelerate the development of commercial initiatives that enhance passenger value, strengthen stakeholder partnerships, and unlock new revenue streams, reinforcing Abu Dhabi Airports’ role as a catalyst for aviation, tourism, and economic growth.
English 
Arabic