Emirates celebrates triple victory at Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2026
Airline’s premium services continue to earn global travel industry recognition
DUBAI – Emirates has once again secured the title of Best Airline Worldwide at the 2026 Business Traveller Middle East (BTME) Awards, marking the 13th consecutive time the airline has received the industry’s top accolade
The Dubai-based carrier also won Best First Class and Best Airport Lounge in the Middle East for its First Class Lounge at Dubai International Airport. The awards highlight Emirates’ continued focus on expanding its premium travel experience across its global network.
The long-running Business Traveller Middle East Awards are among the region’s most recognised travel industry honours, celebrating excellence across the business travel sector. Winners are selected through nominations and votes submitted by Business Traveller Middle East readers. Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, accepted the awards on behalf of the airline.
The recognition comes as Emirates continues to invest in its products, services, aircraft interiors and customer experience both in the air and on the ground. The airline’s fleet refurbishment programme is progressing with 219 Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s undergoing complete upgrades, while new Airbus A350 deliveries continue to introduce the latest cabin products and technologies across its expanding network.
The refurbished aircraft and new Airbus A350s are now operating to more than 70 Emirates destinations worldwide, offering passengers a more consistent and enhanced travel experience when flying to, from, or through Dubai.
Premium travel
Emirates’ First Class offering remains a key part of its luxury travel experience, featuring enclosed private suites, dine-on-demand menus with regionally inspired cuisine, unlimited caviar served with Dom Pérignon champagne, luxury loungewear, Bulgari amenity kits and premium skincare products from Byredo.
Passengers travelling on the Airbus A380 can also access features including the Shower Spa and the Onboard Lounge, alongside a range of other curated services designed for long-haul journeys. The premium experience extends beyond the aircraft cabin, with chauffeur-drive services available in nearly 90 Emirates destinations, priority airport services, and access to Emirates Lounges across more than 30 locations worldwide.
Emirates’ First Class Lounges at Dubai International Airport were recognised as the Best Airport Lounge in the Middle East. The three lounges provide travellers with a selection of premium facilities, including à la carte dining, complimentary spa treatments, a dedicated duty-free shopping area, an extensive wine selection and direct boarding access from select gates.
The airline’s continued investment in its onboard and airport services has strengthened its position as one of the world’s leading carriers for premium travel.
Digital upgrade
Emirates has also expanded its technology offerings, recently introducing Starlink connectivity onboard its aircraft. Once completed, the rollout will make Emirates the operator of the world’s largest Starlink-enabled international wide-body fleet.
So far, 36 aircraft have been equipped with the high-speed connectivity service, allowing passengers to stream content, play online games, make calls, work and browse social media throughout their journey.
Alongside connectivity upgrades, Emirates recently launched Comprehensive Travel Cover insurance, an industry-first initiative designed to provide travellers with additional protection and support during their trips.
The airline is also continuing to grow its international network, with a new daily service to Helsinki scheduled to launch in October. The route will become the only year-round direct connection between Finland and the UAE, further expanding Emirates’ links across Europe and beyond.