Etihad Airways wins three top titles at World Travel Awards 2025
UAE airline honoured across multiple global categories in Bahrain gala
ABU DHABI – Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national carrier, has added three new global titles to its growing list of accolades at the World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala 2025 in Bahrain.
The airline won World’s Leading Airline Customer Experience, World’s Leading Airline Economy Class, and World’s Leading Airline Lounge Business Class for the Etihad Airways Premium Lounge at Zayed International Airport.
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways, said, “Winning three global titles at the World Travel Awards is a testament to the passion and commitment our entire Etihad family brings to every journey. These awards reflect our dedication to delivering extraordinary experiences across every cabin and every touchpoint, from the moment our guests arrive at Zayed International Airport and onboard every flight.”
Global recognition
Etihad was nominated in 13 categories, including World’s Leading Airline, World’s Leading Airline Rewards Programme – Etihad Guest, and World’s Leading Airline Cabin Crew. Its award-winning hub in Abu Dhabi, Zayed International Airport, was also nominated for World’s Leading Airport and World’s Leading Airport Customer Experience.
The airline has seen record growth in 2025, introducing its new A321LR aircraft in August. This model has revolutionised short and medium-haul travel with two private First Class suites, 14 fully-flat, window-facing Business seats with direct aisle access, and 144 Economy seats equipped with 4K screens and high-speed Wi-Fi.
“With the introduction of our new A321LR, we are able to offer a truly world-class experience on more routes and at greater frequency, making it easier than ever for guests from around the world to discover everything our home has to offer,” Neves added.
Regional accolades
Earlier this year, at the World Travel Awards Middle East 2025, Etihad received five awards: World’s Leading Airline Customer Experience, World’s Leading Airline Economy Class, World’s Leading Airline Inflight Entertainment, World’s Leading Airline Lounge Business Class for the Premium Lounge, and World’s Leading Cabin Crew.
The World Travel Awards, established more than 30 years ago, are globally recognised as the benchmark of excellence across travel, tourism, and hospitality industries, celebrating outstanding achievements and innovation.