The region’s travel and hospitality giants received top honors at the 2026 Business Traveller Middle East Awards, reaffirming the dominance of MENA-based players on the global stage. The ceremony saw major wins for UAE and Qatari carriers, while Dubai International Airport was recognized as the world’s best, showcasing the industry’s high standards of service and innovation.
Quick Facts
- Emirates named ‘Best Airline Worldwide’.
- Dubai International Airport crowned ‘Best Airport in the World’.
- Awards recognized leaders across 38 distinct categories.
MENA Carriers Command the Skies
The region’s airlines featured prominently throughout the evening. Emirates took home the coveted ‘Best Airline Worldwide’ award, alongside the title for ‘Airline with the Best First Class’.
Qatar Airways also secured multiple accolades, winning ‘Airline with the Best Business Class’, ‘Best Regional Airline Serving the Middle East’, and ‘Best Frequent Flyer Programme’ for its Privilege Club.
Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways was celebrated for its inflight service, earning both ‘Airline with the Best Cabin Crew’ and ‘Airline with the Best Economy Class’. Rounding out the UAE’s success, flydubai won ‘Airline with the Best Connectivity in the Middle East’.
Dubai’s Aviation Hub Solidifies Global Status
In the airport categories, Dubai International Airport (DXB) achieved a significant double win, securing titles for both ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ and ‘Best Airport in the World’.
The airport’s retail offering also gained recognition, with Dubai Duty Free winning ‘Best Duty Free Shopping in the Middle East’. Emirates’ premium offering was further highlighted with its First Class Lounge at DXB being named the ‘Best Airport Lounge in the Middle East’.
Hospitality Excellence Across the Region
The hotel sector saw widespread recognition for regional and global brands. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts was named ‘Best Hotel Brand Worldwide’, while Radisson won ‘Best Hotel Brand in the Middle East’.
The JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai had a standout night, winning ‘Best Business Hotel in Dubai’ and the prestigious ‘Overall Best Business Hotel in the Middle East’. Other key winners included Vida Hotels & Resorts for ‘Best Lifestyle Hotel Brand’ and Rove Hotels for ‘Best Midscale Hotel Brand’.
About Business Traveller Middle East Awards
The Business Traveller Middle East Awards recognize excellence in the business travel and hospitality sectors. The winners are determined by votes cast online by the readers of Business Traveller Middle East, reflecting the direct experiences of frequent travelers across airlines, airports, and hotels.
Source: Business Traveller
