Emirates Crowned ‘World’s Best Airline’ for Eighth Year Running at ULTRAs Awards

Emirates has once again soared to the top of global aviation, securing the title of “Best Airline in the World” for the eighth consecutive year at the prestigious ULTRAs travel awards held in Dubai yesterday. The airline dominated the night, also clinching the award for “Airline with the Best Premium Economy Class.” A special “Lifetime Achievement Award for Services to Global Aviation” was presented to Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, recognizing his decades of leadership and impact on the industry.

More than 1.2 million travellers from Ultratravel’s international network cast their votes—placing Emirates firmly at the summit of global air travel excellence.

Speaking at the ceremony, Sir Tim Clark said:

“It’s an honour to celebrate our eighth year as ‘best airline in the world’ at the ULTRAs, and thank you to all the travellers who gave us their vote. At Emirates, we want every customer to ‘fly better,’ and that’s why we never stop investing in the Emirates experience. Whether it’s expanding our global network, upgrading our aircraft through a multibillion-dollar retrofit programme, enhancing hospitality training for cabin crew, or introducing new technologies for seamless travel — we continue raising the bar every year.”

Unmatched Excellence in the Skies

Emirates’ continued reign at the top is backed by its world-renowned customer experience, global reach to over 150 destinations, and one of the industry’s most admired fleets, including the Airbus A380, A350, and Boeing 777.

Passengers enjoy award-winning inflight entertainment with more than 6,500 channels, regionally inspired gourmet meals, and premium cabins featuring private suites, onboard lounges, and even shower spas. Beyond the aircraft, Emirates continues to invest heavily in elite airport lounges, chauffeur services, digital travel innovations, and sustainability initiatives—cementing its place as a global aviation leader.

Premium Economy: A New Benchmark

The ULTRAs also recognised the growing success of Emirates’ Premium Economy, a cabin class the airline introduced only recently but which has already won multiple global accolades. Emirates remains the only airline in the region to offer this upgraded travel experience.

Travellers are welcomed with dedicated airport check-in counters, luxurious cream leather seats with up to 40 inches of pitch, calf and footrests for enhanced comfort, elevated dining with premium wine selections, and a 13.3-inch entertainment screen—all within a cosy, exclusive cabin environment.

The Premium Economy experience is now available across 61 destinations, expanding rapidly as part of Emirates’ fleet upgrade programme.