If you’ve flown out of the UAE recently, you probably felt it in your gut (and your wallet, if you stopped at Duty Free). The airports here are levelling up like never before. Now, global rankings have just confirmed what we all kind of already knew. Dubai airports are not just glitzy, they’re legit world-class.
Dubai & Bag Honours For Food & Drinks Over World’s Top Airports
The latest AirHelp Score 2025 dropped like a hot karak, and both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) have landed straight into the world’s top 20 airports. Here’s the big headline: Dubai has been crowned the 1st airport in the world for food and shops. DXB bagged a sizzling 9.1 out of 10 for food and shopping. And honestly, where else can you smash a Shake Shack burger, swipe a Gucci tote, and squeeze in a cheeky spa session, all before takeoff?
Dubai Airport didn’t stop there. It landed a strong 18th spot globally, with a clean 8.14 score. Right on its heels, Abu Dhabi Airport swooped into 19th place with an 8.11, making it a solid win for the UAE air game.
We love a little friendly Emirates rivalry, don’t we?
Middle East Airports: Gaining Altitude
AirHelp, the travel tech bigwig that helps passengers deal with delayed flights (we’ve all been there), ranked 250 airports across 68 countries. These rankings aren’t based on vibes. They’re based on real performance: Punctuality, Customer Opinions, and yes, Food & Shops.
In 2024, only two Middle Eastern airports cracked the top 20. This year? A whopping eight. That’s what we call yalla let’s level up energy.
Topping the regional charts is Doha Hamad International Airport, which earned an impressive 8.52, grabbing second place globally. Hamad is the quiet overachiever, sleek design, serious punctuality, and luxury lounges that scream “Treat Yourself.”
Then there’s Riyadh King Khaled International Airport, pulling off a massive jump from 33rd to 3rd place globally with an 8.47 score. That glow-up? Serious. Riyadh’s airport is now the second-best in the region and a major player among the world’s busiest hubs.
Muscat International Airport didn’t come to play either, scoring 8.47 too, and landing in fifth place globally. Oman’s flagship airport is now the third-best in the Middle East. Clean, calm, and oh-so-efficient.
Also Read: From Cosmetics To Home-Cooked Meals, Here’s What’s Not Allowed At DXB Airport Any More!
So, What’s The Secret Sauce?
It’s not rocket science, well, maybe just a bit of aviation science. These airports are investing big in passenger experience. Think gourmet dining, seamless security checks, and shops that make you want to come early for your flight.
Plus, the region’s strategic location makes it a dream for global connectivity. But here’s the real tea: the Middle East isn’t playing catch-up anymore, it’s running the show. With luxe lounges, clockwork timings, and next-level service, these airports are no longer just pit stops. They’re a full-blown part of your journey.
Dubai nailed the food and shopping game. Abu Dhabi’s climbing with quiet confidence.
Cover Image Courtesy: Emirates/Website
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