As travel in the Middle East continues to evolve, the region's airports are leading the charge in delivering luxurious, efficient, and passenger-friendly experiences. The Middle East has become a major hub for international travel, connecting continents and serving as a gateway for millions of passengers each year. With a blend of modern architecture, state-of-the-art facilities, and an emphasis on cultural hospitality, these airports are not just transit points but destinations in their own right.

Skytrax’s 2025 rankings reveal the top 10 airports in the Middle East, showcasing their unique features, extensive facilities, and the reasons they stand out as premier travel hubs. From opulent lounges and gourmet dining options to efficient operations and cultural elements, these airports prioritize passenger comfort and experience. Additionally, many of these airports are investing in sustainable practices and technological advancements to enhance efficiency and reduce their environmental impact.

Let’s dive into the top 10 airports in the region, highlighting what makes each one exceptional and a vital part of the modern travel landscape.

1. Hamad International Airport, Doha (DOH/OTHH)

Hamad International Airport in Doha is widely regarded as the crown jewel of Middle Eastern travel. Its expansive, airy halls are adorned with stunning art installations, including the world-famous Lamp Bear. This airport offers a plethora of luxurious lounges, including the Al Mourjan Business Lounge, which features sleeping pods, private areas, and gourmet dining options.

Facilities include an on-site swimming pool, a spa, and a wellness center, providing travelers with ample opportunities to unwind before flights. Shopping ranges from high-end boutiques to local brands, while dining options feature a variety of international cuisines and Middle Eastern specialties. Efficient operations ensure short queues and rapid baggage delivery, with the Metro’s Red Line connecting the airport to the city center in just 15 minutes.

Additional Insights:

• Sustainability Initiatives: Hamad International Airport is committed to sustainability, featuring energy-efficient systems and waste management practices.
• Cultural Experiences: Regular art exhibitions and cultural displays reflect Qatari heritage, enhancing the journey for travelers.

2. Dubai International Airport, Dubai (DXB/OMDB)

Dubai International Airport buzzes with energy and offers travelers nearly every amenity imaginable. Terminal 3, primarily used by Emirates, features sprawling lounges, luxury shopping, and gourmet dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants.

The airport boasts state-of-the-art facilities such as relaxation areas, shower facilities, and even a health club. With a range of shopping options from luxury brands to duty-free bargains, the airport ensures a world-class retail experience. The Dubai Metro connects directly to Terminals 1 and 3, facilitating a quick 20-minute journey to the city center.

Additional Insights:

• Passenger Volume: Dubai International is one of the busiest airports in the world, handling over 86 million passengers in 2022.
• Smart Technologies: The airport has implemented biometric technology for faster check-ins and security processes.

3. Bahrain International Airport, Bahrain (BAH/OBBI)

Bahrain International Airport has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a serene and contemporary travel space. The new terminal is bathed in natural light, providing a calm atmosphere with clear signage and various amenities, such as family-friendly areas and dedicated children's play zones.

Lounges offer comfort without overcrowding, and the dining scene blends international chains with authentic Bahraini flavors. Shopping focuses on quality, with luxury products and local crafts available. Efficient security and immigration processes ensure a smooth travel experience, with easy access to the airport via taxis, ride-hailing apps, and dedicated bus services.

Additional Insights:

• Cultural Integration: The airport incorporates elements of Bahraini culture into its design and operations, making it a memorable stop for travelers.
• Business Facilities: Dedicated business lounges and meeting rooms cater to corporate travelers.

4. King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh (RUH/OERK)

Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport is in the midst of an ambitious transformation that harmonizes tradition with modernity. The spacious terminals boast architecture that reflects Saudi culture and provide a range of facilities designed to enhance the passenger experience, including dedicated prayer rooms and family lounges.

Dining options range from quick bites to sit-down restaurants, while an in-demand retail scene features both global and local brands. The airport plans to introduce additional lounges and recreational areas, enhancing comfort for all travelers. Transport to Riyadh's city center, located about 35 km away, is convenient, with numerous taxis and ride-hailing services available.

Additional Insights:

• Future Expansion: The airport is set to expand its facilities, aiming to increase capacity to accommodate more international flights.
• Cultural Events: Events celebrating Saudi culture are occasionally held within the airport, offering travelers a unique experience.

5. King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah (JED/OEJN)

The new terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport has revolutionized the travel experience for millions, especially pilgrims visiting for religious purposes. The modern design features large windows and spacious lounges, providing a less claustrophobic experience.

Facilities include dedicated prayer rooms, extensive dining options, and a variety of shopping outlets that offer international duty-free items and local crafts. The airport efficiently manages high seasonal traffic, ensuring smooth movement during peak periods. Located about 19 km from Jeddah’s city center, it’s accessible in around 25 minutes by taxi or ride-hailing services.

Additional Insights:

• Pilgrimage Services: Special facilities and services are tailored for Hajj and Umrah travelers, including dedicated lounges and guidance.
• Art Installations: The airport features art pieces that celebrate Islamic heritage, enhancing the cultural experience.

6. Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi (AUH/OMAA)

Abu Dhabi's new Midfield Terminal, known as Terminal A, marks a new era for the airport with its cutting-edge design and spacious layout. Offering luxurious lounges with sleep areas and showers, the terminal also features a variety of dining options, from fast food to fine dining.

The retail area includes duty-free shopping and luxury brands, alongside local artisans. Cultural touches throughout the airport provide an Emirati flair, enhancing the travel experience. The city center, approximately 30 km away, is easily reachable via taxis, ride-hailing apps, or airport shuttles, with a metro system currently in development.

Additional Insights:

• Innovative Design: The terminal is designed with sustainability in mind, featuring energy-efficient systems and natural ventilation.
• Cultural Exhibitions: Regular exhibitions highlight Emirati culture and history, providing travelers with enriching experiences.

7. Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Medina (MED/OEMA)

Medina’s airport may be smaller than others on this list, but it offers a warm and welcoming experience, especially for pilgrims. Its design merges modern efficiency with Islamic architectural influences, creating a friendly atmosphere.

Facilities include comfortable lounges, family areas, prayer spaces, and a selection of dining outlets suited for both short transits and longer waits. The service feels personal, with staff often going the extra mile to assist passengers. Located about 15 km from central Medina, taxis and ride-hailing services provide convenient transport, ensuring a dignified start or end to the pilgrimage experience.

Additional Insights:

• Community Focus: The airport actively engages with the local community, offering programs that enhance the travel experience for pilgrims.
• Efficient Operations: Streamlined processes for checking in and boarding ensure that travelers can focus on their spiritual journeys.

8. King Fahd International Airport, Dammam (DMM/OEDF)

King Fahd International Airport stands out as one of the largest airports globally by land area, yet it offers a surprisingly calm passenger experience. The modern terminal features wide concourses, clear signage, and ample seating, with various dining options to improve the culinary experience.

Lounges provide a comfortable escape for those seeking a quieter environment, and shopping focuses on essentials rather than extravagant luxury, with a few local boutiques. The airport sits around 20 km from Dammam city center, and taxis, buses, and ride-hailing apps ensure reliable connections.

While it may lack the flashiness of some Gulf hubs, Dammam’s strength lies in its efficiency, cleanliness, and ease of navigation, making it a pleasant starting point for travel in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.

Additional Insights:

• Accessibility: The airport is designed to be accessible for individuals with disabilities, featuring ramps and dedicated services.
• Local Influence: Regional art and cultural elements are incorporated into the airport's décor, reflecting the local heritage.

9. Muscat International Airport, Muscat (MCT/OOMS)

Muscat International Airport is celebrated for its stunning design, which combines modern infrastructure with traditional Omani aesthetics. The spacious terminal features large windows providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Travelers can enjoy a range of dining options, from local Omani dishes to international cuisine, along with well-equipped lounges that include sleeping pods and relaxation areas. The duty-free shopping experience is enhanced by a selection of Omani crafts and luxury brands. The airport is conveniently located about 15 km from Muscat’s city center, with taxis being the most popular transport option.

Additional Insights:

• Sustainable Practices: The airport is committed to minimizing its environmental footprint, employing sustainable materials and practices in its operations.
• Cultural Heritage: Omani culture is celebrated through art installations and exhibitions, providing travelers with a deeper understanding of the region.

10. Salalah International Airport, Salalah (SLL/OOSA)

Salalah International Airport may be modest compared to its larger counterparts, but it offers a calm and efficient environment. Serving as the primary gateway to Oman’s southern region, known for its lush monsoon season, the airport features comfortable seating, a small selection of shops and eateries, and well-kept lounges.

Facilities include family-friendly areas, charging stations, and information desks staffed with helpful personnel. The design reflects Omani heritage, providing a unique experience despite its size. Located just 6 km from Salalah city, it’s easily accessible by taxi or hire car.

Additional Insights:

• Local Cuisine: The airport promotes Omani culinary traditions, offering authentic dishes in its dining options.
• Tourist Information: An information center provides travelers with insights and tips for exploring Salalah and the surrounding areas.

Conclusion

From the soaring glass walls of Hamad International Airport to the serene charm of Salalah International Airport, the Middle East’s airports offer a diverse range of experiences that cater to travelers’ needs. Whether handling millions of passengers or providing a personal touch, these airports exemplify a commitment to passenger comfort and operational efficiency, solidifying their status as some of the best in the world. Additionally, their focus on sustainability and cultural representation makes them not just transit points but integral parts of the travel experience.

Etihad Airways has achieved a historic milestone in August 2025 by carrying more than 2 million passengers in a single month for the first time ever, marking a 22% year-on-year increase compared to August 2024. The airline reported a passenger load factor of 91%, up from 89% last year, underscoring strong demand and efficient use of capacity.

Etihad’s operating fleet expanded to 112 aircraft, serving 81 passenger destinations, with the introduction of the new Airbus A321LR that brings First Class suites and lie-flat Business seats to narrow-body medium-haul routes for the first time in the region. Year-to-date, the airline has carried 14.2 million passengers, an 18% rise from the same period in 2024, maintaining an 88% average load factor.

On the financial front, Etihad reported its strongest-ever half-year performance for the first six months of 2025. Profit after tax surged by 32% to AED 1.1 billion (USD 306 million) compared to the previous year, driven by robust demand, operational productivity, and improved yields in both passenger and cargo sectors.

Total revenue climbed 16% year-on-year, with passenger and cargo revenues growing 16% and 9%, respectively. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) rose 24% to AED 2.7 billion (USD 739 million), with the EBITDA margin improving to 20%, up one percentage point from 2024.

Etihad carried 10.2 million passengers in the first half of 2025, a 17% increase year-on-year, supported by a 14% rise in available seat kilometres (ASK) and an improved average load factor of 87%. In July, the airline surpassed the milestone of 20 million passengers over the previous 12 months, doubling its 2022 total and confirming its status as the fastest-growing airline in the region.

Fleet expansion continues with the delivery of its sixth Airbus A350, the return of a seventh A380, and a landmark order for 28 wide-body Boeing aircraft, reflecting strong long-term growth ambitions. July saw Etihad add five new jets including its first A321LR, marking the highest number of aircraft deliveries ever received in one month.

As of mid-2025, Etihad serves nearly 90 destinations worldwide, with 27 new routes launched or announced this year alone. This growth enhances Abu Dhabi’s position as a major global hub, increasing connectivity and attracting millions of visitors. Customer satisfaction also improved across airport services, onboard experience, and digital platforms, with the airline’s First Class Net Promoter Score consistently high at 80—among the best in the industry—while maintaining stable unit costs despite service upgrades.

CEO Antonoaldo Neves highlighted that this record-breaking month and half-year reflect the trust travelers place in Etihad’s people and their commitment to delivering extraordinary service. The airline's strategy focuses on sustainable expansion, investing in premium experiences, and connecting more travelers through Abu Dhabi, positioning the emirate as a vibrant destination for global visitors.

Additionally, Etihad hired over 1,700 new employees in the first half of 2025, including more than 100 pilots and 1,000 cabin crew, supporting its rapid growth and operational excellence.

These results mark a new era of growth, investment, and service leadership for Etihad Airways as it continues to set new standards in aviation, fueled by strategic fleet expansion, network growth, and a superb customer experience.

Emirates has once again strengthened its status as a global aviation leader after winning two prestigious accolades at the 2026 Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) Global Passenger Choice Awards. The Dubai-based carrier was honored with the titles of  World Class Airline 2026 and Best Global Entertainment, reflecting its continuous efforts to deliver exceptional customer service, cutting-edge products, and innovative passenger experiences across its network.

The results were announced during the APEX/IFSA Global EXPO held in Long Beach, California, one of the airline industry’s most anticipated annual gatherings.

The World Class Airline recognition is considered one of the highest distinctions in commercial aviation, reserved for airlines that excel in areas such as passenger safety, sustainability, health and well-being measures, service consistency, and global operations. The award is based on a comprehensive evaluation conducted by industry experts in collaboration with Yates and Partners, as well as verified passenger feedback collected through professional auditing of traveler reviews. This recognition places Emirates among the top global carriers that set benchmarks for excellence in airline standards.

In addition, Emirates’ victory in the category of Best Global Entertainment further underscores its long dominance in inflight entertainment. The airline’s award-winning ice system, regarded as one of the most advanced in the world, offers more than 6,500 channels of movies, TV shows, documentaries, music, podcasts, games, and even live sports broadcasts.

Available in multiple languages and updated regularly, the entertainment system has become a defining feature of the Emirates travel experience and a major differentiator for the brand. Passengers also benefit from high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity onboard, allowing them to stay connected throughout their journey, a feature increasingly demanded by today’s travelers.

The APEX Global Passenger Choice Awards are especially noteworthy in the aviation industry as they are based on real passenger experiences and independently audited evaluations rather than solely subjective jury decisions. Millions of travelers worldwide share ratings on nearly 600 airlines each year through TripIt®, feeding into the data that determines winners.

This combination of passenger feedback and independent verification ensures that the accolades reflect genuinely outstanding performance and consistency in airline operations.

For Emirates, these awards come at a time when the airline is actively expanding and modernizing its fleet while also upgrading its services in line with evolving customer expectations. Over the past year, Emirates has introduced retrofitted aircraft with refreshed cabins, including its latest Premium Economy class, offering a new level of comfort.

The airline has also expanded its culinary offerings, elevated beverage services across cabins, redesigned lounges, and strengthened its renowned multicultural crew training programs to deliver more personalized care on board.

Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, welcomed the honors, describing them as a testament to the carrier’s unwavering focus on delivering an unmatched customer journey from ground to sky. He highlighted the airline’s commitment not only to luxury and service innovation but also to sustainable aviation, noting Emirates’ steps toward investing in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, testing alternative fuels, and integrating environmentally conscious features in its products and ground operations.

The recognition also positions Emirates strongly against its global competitors, such as Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific, all of which are known for high service standards and premium offerings. By maintaining excellence in both overall travel experience and in-flight entertainment, Emirates consolidates its place as a benchmark airline for premium international travelers seeking comfort, reliability, and consistency.

Looking ahead, Emirates will continue to enhance its global connectivity as it expands into new destinations throughout 2026, with routes planned in markets across Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The airline is also preparing to welcome next-generation aircraft such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777-9, both of which will introduce new levels of efficiency and customer experience to its long-haul journeys. These developments are expected to further strengthen Emirates’ position as a leader in passenger satisfaction and an airline that continuously invests in the future of travel.

Turkish Airlines (THY) reported carrying 60.7 million passengers during the first eight months of 2025, achieving an overall load factor of 82.7%, reflecting steady growth and strong demand. Passenger numbers increased by 5.8% year-over-year, driven in part by a 10.3% rise in international-to-international transfer passengers, which reached 23.1 million.

The airline’s load factor improved by 0.6 percentage points compared to the same period in 2024, with international flights operating at an 82.3% load factor and domestic flights at 86.7%. Turkish Airlines’ available seat kilometers (ASK) also grew by 6.4%, climbing to 179.2 billion from 168.5 billion in the previous year. Additionally, cargo and mail volumes increased by 5.4% to 1.4 million tons, highlighting growth in its freight operations. The carrier’s fleet expanded to 501 aircraft by the end of August.

In August 2025 alone, Turkish Airlines carried 9.4 million passengers, an 11.9% year-over-year jump. International transfer passengers surged by 17.3% to 3.49 million, with the passenger load factor rising 0.9 percentage points to 86.7%. That month, international flights achieved an 86% load factor, while domestic flights reached 92.6%. Available seat kilometers rose 8.2% to 25.3 billion, and cargo and mail volumes increased by 10.5% to over 191,100 tons.

These figures illustrate Turkish Airlines’ ongoing expansion and operational efficiency, underlining its status as a leading global carrier connecting numerous international and domestic destinations with a growing fleet and robust passenger and cargo demand.

Emirates, the world's largest international airline, will deploy its Airbus A350 aircraft on the daily Dubai-Hangzhou route starting October 26, 2025. This deployment comes just three months after Emirates inaugurated the Hangzhou service, reflecting the airline’s commitment to offering an elevated travel experience on its newest mainland China destination.

Flight EK310 departs Dubai International Airport at 04:15 local time and arrives in Hangzhou at 16:00. The return flight EK311 leaves Hangzhou at 00:10 and lands in Dubai at 06:10. The A350 represents the first new aircraft model to join the Emirates fleet since 2008, adding to the existing fleet of Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s serving China.

The Emirates A350 features the airline’s latest signature interiors, with spacious cabins boasting high ceilings and wider aisles. The aircraft is designed to enhance passenger comfort with seamless technology touchpoints and state-of-the-art inflight entertainment.

Importantly, the A350 introduction to Hangzhou also brings Emirates’ Premium Economy cabin to this route, expanding premium travel options. Premium Economy provides a Business Class-like experience with spacious leather reclining seats fitted with full leg and footrests, adjustable headrests, in-seat charging, side cocktail tables, 13.3-inch screens, complimentary pillows and blankets, amenity kits on select flights, and exclusive sparkling wine (Chandon Vintage Brut 2017).

The aircraft configuration includes 312 seats across three classes: 32 next-generation Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 layout, 21 Premium Economy seats in a 2-3-2 layout, and 259 Economy Class seats arranged 3-3-3.

Passengers can book tickets via emirates.com, the Emirates App, contact centres, travel agents, and Emirates retail stores. Chinese customers can also use WeChat Pay on emirates.com.

 Turkish Airlines has officially resumed direct flights to Misrata, Libya’s third-largest city, following a suspension of more than 10 years. This return complements the airline’s existing Libyan services to Tripoli and Benghazi, expanding its growing footprint across the African continent.

The route, suspended in January 2015 due to regional instability, now operates three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays using Boeing 737-78D aircraft. Flight TK1145 departs Istanbul at 11:30 a.m., arriving in Misrata at 2:25 p.m. local time, while the return flight TK1146 leaves Misrata at 4:25 p.m., arriving in Istanbul at 7:15 p.m.

Mahmut Yayla, Senior Vice President of Sales for Region II at Turkish Airlines, expressed enthusiasm about reconnecting with Misrata, a city sharing deep historical ties with Türkiye. He noted the airline’s commitment to meeting increasing travel demand driven by Africa’s economic growth and highlighted ongoing efforts to diversify gateways on the continent.

To mark the route’s reopening, Turkish Airlines offers promotional fares for tickets purchased by September 9, 2025, with prices starting at $349 one-way from Istanbul to Misrata and $249 for the return trip. These fares apply to travel until November 30, 2025, and may vary based on the point of purchase.

This reopening aligns with Turkish Airlines’ strategy to reinforce Istanbul’s role as a global aviation hub connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa, while strengthening its presence in emerging markets in Africa.