TLDR
– Emirates named world’s best airline
– Top marks for inflight entertainment
– Wins multiple awards for premium experience
DUBAI (The Thursday Times) — Emirates, Dubai’s premier airline, has been crowned the world’s best carrier in a recent survey by Telegraph Travel. The survey, which evaluated 90 global airlines, placed Emirates at the top, outperforming competitors across 30 key principles that included reliability, on-time performance, inflight experience, and safety. With its impressive fleet, top-tier service, and a strong track record for punctuality, Emirates was dubbed a “worthy winner.”
The ranking system focused on the number of passengers carried annually by each airline and drew upon reviews from platforms like Apex, Airline Ratings, Skytrax, and TrustPilot. These platforms offered insights into critical aspects of air travel such as connectivity, luggage rules, and the overall experience of flying. The airline’s performance in each category contributed to its overall victory, proving Emirates’ dominance in global aviation.
Leading in inflight entertainment and service
Emirates is particularly renowned for its inflight entertainment system, ice, which offers an unmatched selection of 6,500 channels, including movies, television shows, and live sports. At the Pax International Awards, the airline took home the award for Best Inflight Entertainment and Connectivity Middle East, further cementing its place as a leader in passenger experience.
This year alone, Emirates has scooped up 19 awards, including seven from the Skytrax World Airline Awards. Its accolades for Best First Class Airline Comfort Amenities and Best First Class Onboard Catering in the Middle East stand out, as does its recognition as the most family-friendly airline in the region. The airline’s dedication to providing a superior inflight experience shines through in these achievements, particularly in its premium economy and first-class offerings.
A heavyweight in premium economy and first class
At the Business Traveller Middle East Awards, Emirates took home several key honours, including Best Airline Worldwide and Best Premium Economy Class. Its first-class service, which has become synonymous with luxury air travel, was also highlighted, with the airline winning the title of Airline with the Best First Class. The premium economy class has seen particular success, with awards for both the Best Premium Economy Class Airline in the Middle East and Best Premium Economy Class Onboard Catering.
Emirates’ commitment to excellence extends beyond the cabin. The airline’s home base at Dubai International Airport, known for its premium lounge services, was named Best Airport Lounge in the Middle East. Passengers with premium tickets or Skywards elite status enjoy top-tier facilities before boarding, enhancing the entire travel experience from start to finish.
Industry recognition and awards haul
In addition to its in-flight and airport service awards, Emirates has made a name for itself with its loyalty programme. The airline’s Skywards programme was awarded Global Loyalty Programme of the Year for the Middle East at the International Loyalty Awards in May 2024. This recognition highlights the value of Emirates’ rewards scheme, which provides travellers with significant perks, including lounge access, upgrades, and mileage bonuses.
The World Travel Awards also recognised Emirates with multiple accolades, including Middle East’s Leading Airline and Middle East’s Leading Airline – First Class. The airline’s rewards programme was again celebrated with the title of Middle East’s Leading Airline Rewards Programme, showcasing the holistic strength of Emirates in both passenger service and loyalty incentives.
