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ATM 2025: Emirates wins ‘Best Airline Worldwide' for 12th year

ATM 2025: Emirates wins ‘Best Airline Worldwide' for 12th year

Gulf News30-04-2025
Dubai: Emirates has been named 'Best Airline Worldwide' for the twelfth consecutive year at the 2025 Business Traveller Middle East (BTME) Awards. The airline also secured three other awards: 'Best First Class', 'Best Premium Economy Class', and 'Best Airport Lounge in the Middle East'.
The awards were presented at a ceremony in Dubai recognising excellence across the aviation and travel sectors. Winners were selected through a public voting process conducted by Business Traveller magazine.
Adil Al Ghaith, Senior Vice President Commercial Operations, Centre, and Dr Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President of Skywards, accepted the awards on behalf of the airline.
The recognition comes amid Emirates' ongoing cabin retrofit programme launched in 2022, which aims to upgrade 219 aircraft. As of April 2025, 51 aircraft have been fully refurbished. Emirates has also received its first Airbus A350, equipped with next-generation onboard products, with plans to serve over 70 cities with upgraded aircraft by year-end.
The airline's Premium Economy Class, introduced in 2022, and its First Class offering—which includes enclosed suites and luxury amenities—have both played roles in securing industry recognition. Emirates' airport lounge services in Dubai, featuring à la carte dining, spa services, and retail experiences, also contributed to its win.
According to Brand Finance, Emirates' brand value rose to $8.4 billion in 2024, placing it among the top five most valuable airline brands globally and the most valuable airline brand outside the US.
flydubai wins 'Best Connectivity in the Middle East' award
flydubai has been named 'Airline with the Best Connectivity in the Middle East' at the 2025 Business Traveller Middle East (BTME) Awards. This marks the second time the airline has received the recognition.
The award was presented during the 24th edition of the annual ceremony, which honours excellence in the travel and aviation industry. flydubai was recognised for its expanding regional network and contribution to air connectivity across the Middle East.
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