APEX, or the Airline Passenger Experience Association, is a prestigious recognition that is given to airlines for their amazing services. And it seems that Middle Eastern airlines have done quite well internationally, claiming several awards, especially Saudia. This is the national carrier of Saudi Arabia that has been serving people with fantastic service ever since it was established back in 1945. It has also grown tremendously both in its service and the network along with its fleet, over the decades. And now, it has officially been recognised as a World-Class Airline 2026 for the fifth year in a row!
Saudia Awarded World-Class Airline 2026
Yes, you read that absolutely right! Saudia has been awarded the World-Class Airline 2026 once again. This recognition has been accorded by the Airline Passenger Experience Association(APEX) for the fifth consecutive year. This, as a result, highlights the success of the strategy of Saudi Arabia, which focuses on enhancing the travel experience. In fact, it also aims to ensure that guest satisfaction is always high and increasing.
However, that’s not it! They were also recognised as the Best in Class for Service-Guest Experience, which is an award they received for the second year in a row. The prestigious award was given to the airline for achieving the highest global score in the category of Service-Guest Experience.
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Etihad Airways & Qatar Airways Also Won Awards
Qatar Airways is honoured to receive the 2026 APEX Best™ Global Food and Beverage Award at the APEX Best™ Awards, presented by APEX and the International Flight Services Association.
The recognition is based on global passengers’ votes and is a testament to the best-in-class… pic.twitter.com/hoQUqp5ZJz— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) September 23, 2025
Not just Saudia, Etihad Airways, which is an Abu Dhabi-based airline, also received recognition from APEX for 2026. Yes, it was recognised as a five-star global airline, and the rating was given on the basis of guest feedback, which was across 1 million flights and 600 airlines worldwide. On the other hand, Qatar Airways was honoured with the 2026 APEX Global Food and Beverage Award. They were also given this recognition on the basis of the global passengers’ votes! As a result, the award is a testament to the best-in-class in-flight and lounge dining that is offered by the airline.
Airlines from the Middle East have truly been shining bright at the APEX award!
Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/saudi_airlines
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