When it comes to luxury air travel, the Middle East is the world's most competitive region.
Benchmarks in comfort and efficiency set here have been emulated around the globe. Our selection recognises the airlines that offer a superior passenger experience in the region, where the highest standards are the norm.
Nominees in the air travel category were evaluated on seat comfort and design, service, dining experience, amenities, innovation and consistency across routes. In coming to our decision, we acknowledge the remarkable energy, innovation, reliability, and commitment to excellence found across the airspace, internationally and in the region.
Saudia First Suite, Saudia
Saudia First Suite on Saudia offers 12 individual spaces in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access. The 22-inch-wide seat converts to an 81-inch flat bed with electronic controls and a personal closet for storage. A dedicated chef prepares meals from three concepts that focus on cultural heritage, traditional Saudia banquet, contemporary Arabic, and modern European.
Etihad Apartments, Etihad Airways
Located on the Airbus A380’s upper deck are nine Etihad Apartments: 39-square-foot suites in a 1-1 layout, each with a 21inch armchair and an 80.5-inch flat bed. A 24-inch HD touchscreen offers a wide selection of movies and unlimited wifi. Dine-on-demand à la carte menus include caviar starters and braised lamb. Need to freshen up? Step into the onboard showers for a five-minute refresh session.
Qatar Airways First Class, Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways First Class on the upper deck of the Airbus A380 offers eight seats in a 1-2-1 layout, each 23 inches wide and extending to a comfortable, lie-flat bed with aisle privacy dividers. A 26-inch HD screen delivers 8,000 entertainment options and free wifi. Dine-on-demand à la carte selections feature oscietra caviar and grilled lamb entrees.
We love the fact there are no overhead bins (there’s a thought).
WINNER OF BEST IN FIRST CLASS EXPERIENCES
Emirates First Class Suite, Emirates
The winner in this category is Emirates First Class Suite, distinguished by enclosed luxury, virtual windows, and a consistent elevation of the first-class standard across the fleet. On the Boeing 777-300ER, it offers six game changer suites in a 1-2-1 layout, each enclosed by 40-inch-wide floor-to-ceiling doors. The 24.6-inch-wide leather seats, inspired by Mercedes-Benz design, transform into 78-inch flat beds, complete with zero gravity recline and individual climate controls. The 32-inch HD touchscreens offer 6,500 entertainment channels with noise-cancelling headphones. On the Airbus A380, the experience goes further and extends to a shower spa and onboard lounge. Congratulations and well deserved.
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