Emirates takes top spot in regional airline rankings

Emirates has taken the top spot as the best overall airline in the Middle East in Apex’s 2026 Airline Awards, according to Dubai Media Office. Its onboard services, especially the ongoing rollout of Starlink satellite internet connectivity, helped it clinch first place, with the carrier also placing first in the entertainment category.

Etihad Airways also featured on the rankings, coming in first in the food and beverage segment, while regional competition came from Saudia, Oman Air, and Qatar Airways, which each topped the list in different segments.

IN CONTEXT- The rankings come as Gulf carriers compete for customers amid a war-driven dip in passenger numbers and an uptick in fuel costs. Emirates CEO Tim Clark recently said the carrier will be offering “incentives” to lock in hesitant travelers, while Etihad said it’s seeing a rebound in demand across key markets.