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.

Delhi Airport is rapidly carving out its place as a premier international transit gateway, emerging as one of the fastest-growing hubs for passengers connecting between international flights. According to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported by GMR Aero and Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), transfers between international flights at the airport skyrocketed by an astonishing 244% in just two years—from 3.88 lakh passengers in FY 2023 to an impressive 13.4 lakh in FY 2025.

This explosive growth underlines Delhi’s rising prominence on the global aviation map. The airport now boasts the strongest direct connectivity to North America and Europe among airports in South and Southeast Asia, thanks in large part to its strategic location along the vital East–West corridor. This makes it a natural and convenient stopover for long-haul travelers transiting between continents.

Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, CEO of DIAL, emphasized the significance of this milestone: “The exponential growth of 244% in International-to-International transfers at Delhi Airport is a strong testament to our emergence as a global transit hub. This achievement is the result of our focused efforts and commitment to providing seamless connectivity, best-in-class infrastructure, and a world-class passenger experience. Aligned with the Government of India’s strategic vision to position Delhi as a leading international transit gateway, we have been continuously working to build a hub that connects continents.”

The airport’s overall transfer traffic also showed solid growth, reaching 2.03 crore passengers in FY 2025—a 30.6% increase from FY 2023. Domestic-to-domestic transfers grew steadily as well, rising 15.9% to 1.05 crore passengers over the same period. A notable driver of this boom has been airline route expansion—IndiGo’s new services linking Bangkok and Phuket to Central Asian cities like Almaty, Tashkent, Tbilisi, and Baku fueled nearly 500% growth on the Central Asia-Thailand corridor.
With both Air India and IndiGo planning to add more wide-body aircraft and launch new routes, the surge in transfer passengers is expected to accelerate even further.

Delhi Airport’s ability to handle the surging transfer volume owes much to its robust infrastructure development and passenger-centric services under the ambitious Phase 3A expansion project.

The specialized International-to-International transfer zone has nearly doubled in size, featuring additional frisking booths, X-ray machines, food and beverage outlets, and retail shops, enabling quicker and smoother transit for international passengers. Dedicated transfer desks, buggy services inside Terminal 3, porter assistance, and optional lounge access all enhance passenger convenience for seamless onward connections.

Exclusive lounges like Encalm Privé at Terminal 3 arrivals offer travelers the chance to rest, refresh, and recharge with power naps, showers, and refreshments. The Holiday Inn Express within Terminal 3’s International wing provides comfortable overnight accommodations equipped with blackout shades, mini-bar, climate control, television, and bedding—perfect for long layovers.

Real-image terminal maps accessible via QR codes at Terminals 1 and 3 guide travelers efficiently to transfer desks, boarding gates, and baggage areas. Delhi’s Airport Express (Orange Line) and Magenta Line link terminals with central Delhi, supported by metro stations at Terminals 1 and 3 and Aerocity. Free shuttle buses operate every 10 minutes between terminals for added ease.

Passenger experience is further enhanced by the “DEL Vibes” cultural program at Terminal 3, which offers live classical music, dance, and crafts daily, while biometric kiosks expedite e-visa processing. Color-coded signage simplifies navigation, further easing transfers.

With its 244% spike in international-to-international transfers, Delhi Airport stands out as a reliable and attractive choice for transit passengers worldwide. Backed by extensive route networks, strategic airline partnerships, and integrated passenger services, it is connecting India more closely to the world than ever before.

Serving approximately 150 global destinations, Delhi Airport is the sole Indian airport ranked among the top 10 hub airports in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East region, as per Airports Council International Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s 2024 Air Connectivity Ranking.

As investments in infrastructure continue and airline expansions gather pace, Delhi Airport is well on its way to becoming a truly world-class transit gateway—uniting continents and cultures through seamless travel experiences.

Lucknow’s Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport is set for a transformative expansion with Adani Airports investing nearly ₹10,000 crore to vastly improve facilities, capacity, and connectivity. The airport’s annual passenger handling capacity will almost double from 8 million to 14 million by 2026–27, driven by the completion of Terminal 3, Phase 2, along with upgraded infrastructure.

A parallel taxi track will increase flight movements from 17 to 24 per hour, reducing congestion and improving operational efficiency. The runway is being extended from 2,744 meters to 3,514 meters, enabling wide-body aircraft such as the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 to operate directly from Lucknow. This enhancement is expected to open nonstop long-haul flights to Europe and the US.

Cargo operations are also receiving a significant boost, with a target to increase capacity to 50,000 metric tonnes within the next five years. Currently, the airport connects to 42 nonstop destinations—31 domestic and 11 international with plans to add more international routes including direct flights to Vietnam and Singapore. The expansion combines modern technology, art, and culture to create a seamless and comfortable travel experience and aims to establish Lucknow as a major aviation hub in northern India while supporting regional economic growth.

Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA) has welcomed the Syrian airline Fly Cham to its growing network, officially launching new flights to the emirate on August 28, 2025. This significant addition highlights Sharjah Airport’s expanding role as a regional travel hub, boosting connectivity between the UAE and Syria and offering passengers enhanced travel options.

The inaugural Fly Cham flight touched down at Sharjah Airport amid a ceremony attended by key officials including Dr. Ahmed Al Hmoudi, Director of Customer Service at SAA, and Hamdi Khalaf, Commercial Director of Fly Cham. The airline will operate five weekly flights between Damascus and Sharjah with convenient afternoon timings, along with two weekly early morning flights linking Aleppo and Sharjah. The aircraft of choice for these routes is the Airbus A320, known for its comfort and efficiency.

Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of SAA, emphasized the importance of these new services in meeting the rising demand for travel between Syria and the UAE. “The launch of Fly Cham flights is a valuable addition to our ongoing expansion and highlights the strength and quality of our airport’s infrastructure and services,” he stated. Al Midfa also noted that the new routes provide vital flexibility for passengers to maintain family ties and conduct business, affirming SAA’s commitment to delivering safe, seamless, and world-class travel experiences.

From Fly Cham’s perspective, CEO Captain Moussa Boutros described the partnership with Sharjah Airport as a strategic step for regional growth. “Our confidence in Sharjah’s world-class facilities and services makes it the ideal choice to offer safe, reliable, and competitively priced travel options,” he said. Boutros highlighted that the collaboration aims to support growing demand and deepen ties between Syria and the UAE.

Sharjah Airport continues to attract international airlines by adopting advanced technologies and tailoring services to meet diverse needs. With ongoing expansion projects targeting an increase in annual capacity to 25 million passengers by 2027, the airport is poised to reinforce Sharjah’s position as a leading aviation, tourism, and economic hub in the region. The Fly Cham launch stands as a testament to this vision, enriching the airport’s route network and enhancing its role in regional connectivity and economic development.

In a significant move ahead of Malaysia’s 68th National Day celebrations, authorities will close the airspace surrounding Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) every morning from 8 a.m. to noon starting Tuesday, August 26, for six consecutive days. This temporary closure is to facilitate rehearsals by the Royal Malaysian Air Force for the much-anticipated aerial flypast during the National Day parade on August 31.

The morning airspace closure aims to ensure smooth, uninterrupted practice sessions, which are a highlight of the country’s annual patriotic festivities. The Royal Malaysian Air Force's precision and spectacle in the sky are eagerly awaited each year, symbolizing national pride and unity.

In response to the closure, Malaysia Airlines announced adjustments to its flight schedules to accommodate the restricted airspace period. Passengers departing KLIA are urged to arrive at least four hours before their revised flight times to allow ample time for check-in procedures and mandatory travel document verification at various checkpoints within the airport.

The airline also emphasizes the importance of travelers verifying their travel documents and entry or exit requirements through official channels prior to their journey, ensuring a hassle-free experience during this busy time.

As Malaysia prepares to honor its 68th year of independence, these measures highlight the elaborate planning and coordination behind the celebrations, promising a memorable National Day both on the ground and in the skies.

Dubai International Airport's Terminal 1 is set to welcome a transformative upgrade that promises to greatly enhance the travel experience for millions of passengers. Recognizing the surging demand with over 92 million travelers passing through the airport in 2024, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched an ambitious project to widen and upgrade the crucial access bridge to Terminal 1.

The existing bridge, which currently accommodates three lanes, will be expanded to four lanes through the construction of a new steel box girder bridge integrated with a composite concrete slab. This innovative engineering approach not only delivers enhanced structural efficiency but also enables swift construction without disrupting the busy traffic flow on Airport Street or requiring temporary supports beneath the bridge.

Stretching a total of 171 meters, with a 70-meter main span, the expanded bridge will increase vehicle capacity by 33%, rising from 4,200 to 5,600 vehicles per hour. This substantial boost in capacity aims to dramatically reduce congestion and shorten journey times, offering smoother access to one of the world's busiest international airports.

Beyond widening the bridge, the project features comprehensive upgrades including road pavement improvements, infrastructure service enhancements, landscaping to blend with the surrounding environment, and new street lighting to improve safety and visibility.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General of RTA, emphasized the importance of this development as part of Dubai’s larger vision to future-proof its transportation network and strengthen connectivity between vital corridors and the airport. This initiative falls under broader efforts by the RTA that have already delivered several major infrastructure upgrades along Airport Street ranging from additional bridges and tunnels to expanded road capacity all geared toward supporting Dubai’s standing as a global travel and business hub.

As Dubai International Airport continues to break records as the world's busiest for international passengers, the Terminal 1 bridge expansion underscores the city's commitment to excellence in transportation infrastructure. Travelers can look forward to a safer, faster, and more seamless journey to and from DXB, reiterating Dubai’s role as a premier gateway for global connectivity.

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