Dubai - UAE
The World Travel Awards announced the results of its 2026 edition of the Middle East, during a ceremony held on September 13 at the One&Only One Zabeel Hotel in Dubai. Dubai topped the list of titles by winning the “Leading Destination in the Middle East” award, while Qatar Airways won the “Leading Airline” award, and the “Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental” hotel won the “Leading Luxury Hotel” award.

Sadara for Gulf destinations

Abu Dhabi won the title of “Leading Business Tourism Destination,” while Saadiyat Island won the “Leading Beach Destination” award. Saudi Arabia won the “Cultural Destination” and “Leading Heritage Destination” awards, while Riyadh was chosen as the “Leading Urban Destination.” Ajman also won the title of “Emerging Tourist Destination,” and Mleiha National Park in Sharjah won the “Leading National Park” award.

Diversity in tourism experiences
The competition extended to specialized areas that reflect the diversity of the tourism product in the region. Oman won the “Honeymoon Destination” and “Most Romantic Destination” titles, while Doha won the “Leading Sports Tourism Destination” award. AlUla won the title of “Pioneering Cultural Tourism Project,” while Zayed National Museum won the “Pioneering New Tourism Landmark” award.

Aviation and hospitality at the forefront

Etihad Airways won awards for Customer Experience, Economy Class and Cabin Crew, while Emirates won the titles for First Class, Brand and Skywards. In the new projects category, “Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai” won the new hotel award, and “InterContinental Red Sea Resort” won the new resort title.

Message from the founder of the award

Commenting on the results, Graham E. said: Cook, Founder and President of World Travel Awards: “Our winners represent the best that the travel and tourism sector in the Middle East has to offer.” He stressed that these institutions contribute to raising standards of competition and service at the region level.

An indication for the Arab tourist and investor
The results provide an important indicator for Arab tourists about the diversity of Gulf options between business tourism, culture, beaches and sports. It also gives the investor a clearer understanding of the sectors that are witnessing momentum, especially new hotels, cultural projects, resorts, aviation, and events.

From the region to the global final

World Travel Awards was established in 1993, and its awards are awarded at the national, regional and global levels. The 2026 tournament will continue its activities in the Maldives, Jamaica and Montenegro, before the global final is held in Tanzania on December 12.