Emirates has swept three top honours at the 2026 Business Traveller Middle East Awards, claiming Best Airline Worldwide, Best First Class, and Best Airport Lounge in the Middle East for its First Class Lounge at Dubai International Airport.
The Business Traveller Middle East Awards rank among the region's most respected travel industry recognitions, with winners determined by nominations and votes from the publication's readership. Emirates' Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, accepted the awards on behalf of the airline.
The triple win comes as Emirates accelerates one of aviation's most ambitious fleet overhaul programmes. With 219 Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s currently undergoing complete refurbishment, the airline has expanded its upgraded cabin experience to over 70 global destinations. Ongoing deliveries of the new Airbus A350 continue to bring its latest cabin products and technologies to a growing share of its near 140-destination network.
Connectivity is also getting a major upgrade. Emirates recently began rolling out Starlink across its fleet and, once complete, will operate the world's largest Starlink-enabled international wide-body fleet. Thirty-six aircraft have been equipped so far, allowing passengers to stream, game, make calls, and browse throughout their journey.
Beyond the cabin, the airline recently launched Comprehensive Travel Cover insurance, an industry first designed to offer travellers greater peace of mind and protection while on the move.
The awards reflect a broader push by Emirates to raise the bar across every touchpoint of the travel experience, from the moment passengers step into its Dubai lounge to the time they land at their destination.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
