Emirates Crowned the World’s Best Long-Haul Airline of 2025, Elevating Gulf Aviation Excellence Across Global Skies

Published on October 23, 2025

The year 2025 has once again underscored the remarkable influence of Emirates, the flagship carrier of the United Arab Emirates, as it has been voted the world’s best long-haul airline by readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. This recognition stands as a testament to the Gulf region’s growing reputation for excellence in aviation, hospitality, and global connectivity. With British Airways and Singapore Airlines following closely behind, the results of the annual Travel Awards reflect travelers’ evolving expectations for comfort, reliability, and innovation in the skies. The survey, which gathered over 900,000 votes across airlines, cruise lines, hotels, and tour operators, illustrates the enduring appeal of Emirates’ service quality, its cutting-edge Airbus A380 fleet, and the expansion of its global network. The recognition also highlights how Gulf aviation continues to redefine the modern travel experience, blending technology with personalized luxury, and placing the region at the forefront of the world’s air travel industry.

Emirates Takes the Top Spot in 2025

Emirates has achieved first place in the long-haul airline category at The Times and The Sunday Times Travel Awards 2025, surpassing major competitors British Airways and Singapore Airlines. The distinction, now separating short-haul and long-haul carriers for the first time, was introduced to reflect contemporary travel patterns influenced by global tourism trends and business travel recovery.

The ranking reinforces Emirates’ continuous appeal among travelers who prioritize premium service standards, spacious cabins, and consistent flight connectivity. The airline’s reputation has been built over decades, supported by its vast Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 fleet, renowned for offering some of the industry’s most luxurious in-flight experiences, including first-class private suites, onboard shower spas, and multinational cuisine.

A Symbol of Gulf Excellence in Global Aviation

From its base in Dubai, Emirates has positioned itself not merely as a carrier but as a symbol of Gulf innovation and hospitality. Its recognition as the world’s best long-haul airline in 2025 reinforces the strategic vision of the United Arab Emirates to become a global hub for travel and tourism.

The airline’s ongoing commitment to expansion has seen the addition of five new destinations, including Shenzhen, Damascus, and Siem Reap, broadening its reach across Asia and the Middle East. With more than 300 new aircraft on order, Emirates continues to invest heavily in sustainability, passenger comfort, and operational efficiency. Each initiative has been designed to elevate passenger experience while aligning with the UAE’s broader goal of maintaining its position as a leader in global mobility.

British Airways Strengthens Its Competitive Edge

Ranking second, British Airways has demonstrated renewed momentum in 2025 through its ambitious £7 billion transformation programme. This comprehensive investment includes the introduction of new cabins, an expanded Airbus A320neo fleet, and the integration of artificial intelligence tools to optimize scheduling and flight management.

These initiatives have led to notable improvements in operational reliability, with 86% of flights departing on time from London Heathrow during the first quarter of 2025. This performance has strengthened British Airways’ reputation as the United Kingdom’s leading international carrier, reflecting its focus on technological advancement and passenger satisfaction.

Singapore Airlines Retains Its Prestigious Status

In third place, Singapore Airlines continues to be a global benchmark for quality and consistency. Operating 40 weekly flights between the United Kingdom and Singapore, the carrier is further enhancing its transcontinental network with new daily services from Gatwick beginning in spring 2025.

The airline’s operational hub, Changi Airport, has long been celebrated as one of the world’s finest, consistently appearing in top global airport rankings for its design, convenience, and amenities. Singapore Airlines’ commitment to exceptional service, innovative cabin products, and seamless connectivity reinforces its position as a top-tier carrier for both leisure and business travelers across Asia and beyond.

Air Travel Trends Reflected in 2025 Rankings

The results of the 2025 Travel Awards demonstrate a broader shift in global aviation preferences. Travelers are increasingly drawn to airlines that combine luxury with efficiency, and innovation with reliability. Emirates’ victory symbolizes the alignment of these qualities, representing the ideal long-haul experience for modern passengers.

The distinction between short-haul and long-haul carriers introduced in this year’s awards reflects changing travel behaviors, with passengers seeking tailored experiences depending on journey length. This segmentation also highlights how long-haul travel, particularly on routes connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, continues to evolve through advancements in aircraft design, sustainability initiatives, and personalized service models.

Emirates’ Network Expansion and Innovation Drive

In 2025, Emirates’ route expansion has continued to strengthen its dominance across continents. The addition of new destinations in Asia and the Middle East has provided travelers with more seamless connections to emerging tourism markets. Furthermore, its partnership initiatives and interline agreements have extended connectivity to over 150 cities worldwide, ensuring that travelers can reach even the most remote destinations with ease.

Beyond network growth, Emirates has placed significant emphasis on technological integration. Its digital innovation includes advanced AI-based passenger support systems, biometric check-in facilities at Dubai International Airport, and enhanced sustainability practices aimed at reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

A Reflection of Traveler Confidence in Gulf Carriers

The 2025 recognition of Emirates is not merely an award; it reflects a deeper trust that global travelers place in Gulf airlines. Over the past decade, carriers from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have collectively transformed global perceptions of air travel through a combination of superior infrastructure, customer-centric services, and innovative fleet management.

Emirates’ consistent leadership in global rankings underlines the Middle East’s strategic role as a crossroads of international travel, where world-class facilities and hospitality traditions meet cutting-edge technology.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Global Aviation

The success of Emirates, British Airways, and Singapore Airlines in 2025 illustrates the continued evolution of global aviation, where excellence is defined by adaptability, sustainability, and passenger experience. As the industry transitions into an era driven by artificial intelligence, eco-efficient aircraft, and digital travel ecosystems, these carriers are setting benchmarks that others will aspire to follow.

For Emirates, this accolade reaffirms its commitment to delivering not just transportation, but a comprehensive travel experience rooted in the Gulf’s tradition of hospitality and innovation. As global travel continues to rebound, the airline’s journey from regional carrier to international icon remains a symbol of how the United Arab Emirates continues to redefine the future of luxury aviation and tourism.