Emirates crowned World’s Leading Airline at 2024 World Travel Awards
UAE’s national carrier also shines in service and tech with top app awards
Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has once again solidified its reputation as a leader in the aviation industry. At the 2024 World Travel Awards, the UAE’s national flag-carrier took home multiple honours, including ‘World’s Leading Airline - First Class,’ ‘World’s Leading Airline - Brand,’ and ‘World’s Leading Airline - Inflight Entertainment.’
In addition, Emirates Skywards was named the ‘World’s Leading Airline Rewards Programme,’ underscoring its excellence in customer loyalty.
Simultaneously, the airline made its mark at the World Travel Tech Awards, clinching ‘Best Airline App Worldwide’ and ‘Best Airline App in the Middle East.’
The awards ceremony was held at the Savoy Palace in Madeira, Portugal, with Emirates’ Country Manager in Portugal, David Quinto, accepting the honours. The events celebrated top-tier achievements in global travel and tourism, as well as innovations in travel technology.
Building better experiences
Emirates’ success stems from its relentless focus on customer experience and innovation. As part of its multi-billion-dollar retrofit programme, the airline has begun rolling out 36 fully refurbished aircraft, including 26 Airbus A380s and 10 Boeing 777s. These aircraft now feature enhanced interiors, including the highly lauded Premium Economy cabins.
The airline’s First-Class service continues to set the bar with fully enclosed private suites, an exclusive ‘dine on demand’ menu, and the A380’s iconic Shower Spa. Emirates has also introduced ‘L'art du vin,’ a bespoke wine course for cabin crew, ensuring passengers enjoy exceptional wines and rare vintages in the sky.
Leading in digital innovation
In the tech sphere, Emirates has expanded its digital capabilities to enhance the passenger journey. Its award-winning app provides a seamless experience, offering features such as real-time flight updates, baggage tracking, and interactive airport maps. Customers can also explore 3D cabin tours and create personalised playlists for inflight entertainment.
Earlier this year, Emirates.com was ranked in the top three airline websites globally by Catchpoint, praised for its quick load time of under five seconds.
Expanding entertainment
Entertainment is another area where Emirates shines. The airline recently collaborated with Spotify to offer an expanded catalogue of playlists and podcasts, ensuring passengers enjoy a personalised entertainment experience during flights. This is part of Emirates’ commitment to offering industry-first innovations to its customers.
Skywards loyalty programme
With over 33 million members globally, Emirates Skywards remains one of the most rewarding loyalty programmes in the aviation industry. Each month, more than 120,000 new members join to enjoy benefits such as redeeming miles for flights, hotel stays, gift cards, and exclusive experiences.
Skywards’ extensive partnerships, spanning airlines, hotels, and lifestyle brands, allow members to ‘earn better’ and ‘spend better.’ Its innovative approach continues to attract frequent travellers looking for value and unique opportunities.
Emirates leads global travel
Emirates’ recognition at the World Travel Awards is just one of many accolades the airline has received this year. It was also celebrated at the ULTRAs 2024, Telegraph Travel, and Forbes Travel Guide’s Air Travel Awards. Furthermore, it secured a 2025 APEX World Class Airline ranking, cementing its status as a leader in global aviation.
The airline’s consistent investment in elevating service standards and integrating cutting-edge technology ensures it remains ahead of the competition, offering travellers unparalleled experiences both on the ground and in the air.