The Business Traveller Middle East Awards are recognised as among the region’s most respected travel industry honours. Emirates secured the Best Airline Worldwide title at the 2026 Business Traveller Middle East Awards. The Dubai-based carrier also claimed Best First Class and Best Airport Lounge in the Middle East for its lounge at Dubai International Airport.
Fleet Modernisation and Network Growth
Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, accepted the awards on behalf of the airline. These honours are determined through nominations and votes cast by readers of the publication. The wins reflect the airline's focus on enhancing the customer experience both in the air and on the ground. Continued investment across its products, services, and network keeps Emirates firmly ahead of the curve.
Emirates is accelerating its fleet retrofit programme, with 219 Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s currently undergoing complete refurbishment. New Airbus A350 deliveries are introducing the latest cabin products and technologies to the network. The refurbished aircraft and new A350s now serve over 70 destinations within a global network of nearly 140 locations. This expansion delivers a more consistent inflight experience for customers travelling to, from, or through Dubai.
Premium Amenities and Connectivity
First Class suites feature enclosed private spaces and dine-on-demand menus with regionally inspired cuisine. Passengers receive unlimited caviar paired with Dom Pérignon champagne, Bulgari amenity kits, and Byredo skincare products. The A380 aircraft also offer a Shower Spa and an Onboard Lounge. The premium experience extends beyond the cabin with chauffeur-drive services in close to 90 destinations and access to Emirates Lounges in more than 30 locations worldwide.
The airline’s three First Class Lounges at Dubai International Airport offer à la carte dining, complimentary spa treatments, a premium duty-free shopping area, and an exquisite wine selection. Emirates recently rolled out Starlink on board, equipping 36 aircraft with high-speed connectivity. Once complete, the airline will operate the world's largest Starlink-enabled international wide-body fleet. This service enables customers to stream content, game, make calls, work, and browse social media throughout their journey. The carrier also launched Comprehensive Travel Cover insurance, an industry first. Later this year, in October, Emirates will launch a daily flight to Helsinki.
Frequently asked questions
What airline won Best Airline Worldwide at the 2026 Business Traveller Middle East Awards?
Emirates secured the Best Airline Worldwide title at the 2026 Business Traveller Middle East Awards.
What destinations does Emirates offer chauffeur-drive services to?
Emirates offers chauffeur-drive services in close to 90 destinations.
What is Emirates' fleet retrofit programme focusing on?
Emirates is accelerating its fleet retrofit programme, with 219 Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s currently undergoing complete refurbishment.
