Emirates Celebrates Major Awards at World Travel Gala 2025

Emirates is concluding 2025 on a remarkable note, securing five new prestigious titles at the 32nd annual World Travel Awards taking place in Bahrain. Already widely acclaimed this year, the airline reinforces its stature as one of the most recognized international carriers with these new accolades spanning brand reputation, in-flight experience, premium offerings, and loyalty initiatives.

The newly acquired titles feature World's Leading Airline Brand 2025, World's Leading Airline Inflight Entertainment, World's Leading Airline – First Class, World's Leading Airline Lounge – First Class, and World's Leading Airline Rewards Programme for Emirates Skywards. The airline has consistently highlighted its award-winning inflight entertainment system, ice, and its First Class facilities, alongside the First Class Lounge at Dubai International Airport, which has earned recognition among the finest.

These accomplishments reflect what has been a groundbreaking year for Emirates. In the preceding month, it was voted as the 'Best Airline in the World' for the eighth consecutive year at the ULTRAs, with a solid backing of 1.2 million votes from travelers. Furthermore, the airline received accolades for its Premium Economy Class and a Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Sir Tim Clark. The aviation community also honored Emirates with 'Best First Class of the Year' and 'Airline of the Year' at the Aviation Business Middle East awards.

The accolades continued on multiple global platforms. Emirates received Best International Airline, Best International First Class, and Best International Airline Lounge at the Forbes Travel Guide Verified Air Travel Awards 2025, along with the title of Best Long-Haul Airline from The Times and The Sunday Times Travel Awards. Sir Tim Clark was also distinguished by the Wings Club Foundation with its Distinguished Achievement Award.

Earlier in the year, Emirates garnered accolades at the APEX/IFSA Global EXPO in the United States, winning the 2026 APEX Best™ Global Entertainment Award and a 2026 APEX WORLD CLASS™ rating for overall customer experience. Additional recognition came from the Business Traveller Middle East Awards, YouGov, and the Telegraph Travel Awards—underscoring Emirates’ dedication to excellence across long-haul travel, First Class, Premium Economy, and airport lounges.

With over 20 awards amassed throughout 2025, Emirates has concluded the year with a stellar performance, reaffirming its position as one of the aviation world's most prominent and esteemed brands.