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Emirates named world’s best airline in Skytrax awards

In a gala ceremony held at Farnborough Airshow, Skytrax presented the 2016 World Airline Awards. The leaders and top management from over 40 airlines from across the globe attended the event, where Emirates was voted the World’s Best Airline by air travellers.
At the awards event, Edward Plaisted of Skytrax commented: “we are honoured to have so many airlines travel here today and receive their accolades after being voted as Best Airlines in many different categories. For many years we have been dedicated to providing a survey and awards process that remains independent, and delivering an event that is aptly known as the Passenger’s Choice Awards. We have seen many familiar names here today appearing as repeat winners, which I guess reflects that in many cases ‘once a winner, always a winner’ in many customers eyes.
Emirates was named the to the prestigious title of best airline in the world, trumping last year’s winner Qatar Airways, which came second. Emirates also scooped up the awards for World’s Best Inflight Entertainment for a record 12th consecutive year, and Best Airline in the Middle East.
Singapore Airlines took third spot, followed by Cathay Pacific, both in last year’s top five, while ANA All Nippon Airways rose two places to come fifth.
The World’s Top 10 Airlines of 2016
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
- Singapore Airlines
- Cathay Pacific
- ANA All Nippon Airways
- Etihad Airways
- Turkish Airlines
- EVA Air
- Qantas Airways
- Lufthansa
In other awards, Qatar Airways took gongs for the world’s best business class, best business class lounge and best airline staff in the Middle East, while Singapore was awarded the best airline in Asia and ANA All Nippon Airways was recognised for offering the world’s best airport services and having the best airline staff in Asia for the second year in a row.
Other accolades included the world’s best low-cost airline handed to Norwegian and the world’s most improved airline won by Thai Airways.
Skytrax World Airline Awards: A-Z of winners
- Aegean Airlines Best Regional Airline in Europe
- Aeroflot Russian Airlines Best Airline in Eastern Europe
- Air Astana Best Airline in Central Asia / India, Best Airline Staff Service in Central Asia / India
- Air France Best First Class Airline Lounge Dining, Best First Class Comfort Amenities
- Air New Zealand World’s Best Premium Economy Class Cabin, World’s Best Premium Economy Class Airline Seat
- AirAsia World’s Best Low-Cost Airline, Best Low-Cost Airline in Asia
- AirAsia X World’s Best Low Cost Airline Premium Cabin, World’s Best Low Cost Airline Premium Seat
- ANA All Nippon Airways World’s Best Airport Services, Best Airline Staff Service in Asia
- Asiana Airlines World’s Best Economy Class, Best Economy Seat, Best Economy Class Onboard Catering
- Austrian Best Airline Staff Service in Europe Azul Linhas Aereas Brasileiras, Best Low-Cost Airline in South America, Best Airline Staff in South America
- Bangkok Airways World’s Best Regional Airline, Best Regional Airline in Asia
- Cathay Pacific Airways World’s Best Airline Cabin Cleanliness, Best First Class Airline Lounge
- Copa Airlines Best Airline in Central America / Caribbean, Best Regional Airline in Central America / Caribbean, Best Airline Staff Service in Central America / Caribbean
- Emirates World’s Best Airline (Airline of the Year), World’s Best Airline Inflight Entertainment
- Ethiopian Airlines Best Airline Staff Service in Africa
- Etihad Airways World’s Best First Class, Best First Class Seat, Best First Class Onboard Catering
- EVA Air Best Airline Transpacific, Best Business Class Comfort Amenities
- Finnair Best Airline in Northern Europe
- flyDubai Best Low Cost Airline in the Middle East
- Garuda Indonesia World’s Best Cabin Crew
- Hainan Airlines Best Airline in China, Best Airline Staff Service in China
- Hawaiian Airlines Best Airline Staff Service in North America
- Indigo Best Low-Cost Airline in Central Asia / India
- Jetstar Airways Best Low-Cost Airline in Australia / Pacific
- Juneyao Airlines Best Regional Airline in China
- Kulula Best Low Cost Airline in Africa
- LAN Airlines Best Airline in South America
- Lufthansa Best Airline in Western Europe, Best Airline Transatlantic
- NorwegianWorld’s Best Long Haul Low-Cost Airline, Best Low-Cost Airline in Europe
- Plaza Premium World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge
- Porter Airlines Best Regional Airline in North America
- Qantas Best Airline Australia in Pacific, Best Airline Staff in Australia / Pacific Best Premium Economy Onboard Catering
- Qatar Airways World’s Best Business Class, Best Business Class Airline Lounge, Best Airline Staff in the Middle East
- Royal Air Maroc Best Regional Airline in Africa
- Singapore Airlines Best Airline in Asia, Best Business Class Airline Seat
- Sky Airline Best Regional Airline South America
- South African Airways Best Airline in Africa
- Spring Airlines Best Low-Cost Airline in China
- Star AllianceWorld’s Best Airline Alliance, World’s Best Airline Alliance Lounge
- Thai Airways World’s Most Improved Airline, Best Airline Lounge Spa Facility
- Thomson Airways World’s Best Leisure Airline
- Turkish Airlines Best Airline in Europe, Best Airline in Southern Europe, Best Business Class Airline Catering, Best Business Class Lounge Dining
- Virgin America Best Airline in North America, Best Low-Cost Airline in North America
Often referred to as the “Oscars of the aviation industry”, the World Airline Awards this year welcomed entries from more airlines than ever before. The winners are then chosen based on what is said to be “the world’s largest airline passenger satisfaction survey”.
While the figures for this year’s awards are yet to be released, last year’s survey of 18.9 million passengers saw more than 245 airlines measured on 41 key performance standards, from the quality of check-in service and boarding procedures to cabin cleanliness and other indicators.
Source: The Telegraph, London
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Dusit Thani Maldives named Best House Reefs at TTM Awards 2026
Dusit Thani Maldives has been named Best House Reefs at the TTM Awards 2026, recognising one of the resort’s most distinctive natural treasures and its exceptional underwater experience.
Presented as part of the TTM Awards & Gala 2026 at CROSSROADS Maldives on 27 August, the annual awards recognise outstanding achievements across the Maldivian hospitality industry.
Set on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives is surrounded by a 360-degree house reef, giving guests direct access to a rich underwater ecosystem just moments from the island’s shores. The reef is home to a diverse variety of marine life, including colourful tropical fish, sea turtles, sharks and rays, creating memorable opportunities for snorkelling and diving throughout the year.
To mark the win in true island style, the resort team took the award beneath the surface, capturing it among the coral and marine life that inspired the recognition.
“This award is particularly meaningful to us because our house reef is such an important part of the Dusit Thani Maldives experience. It is something our guests can discover almost from the moment they step into the water, and it reminds us every day how fortunate we are to call this extraordinary island home. This recognition belongs to our entire team and to everyone who continues to support, appreciate and help protect the natural environment around us,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager – Maldives.
Located within Baa Atoll, a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve, the resort places the surrounding natural environment at the heart of the guest experience. Alongside snorkelling and diving, the resort undertakes regular reef and beach clean-ups and encourages guests to take part in activities aimed at protecting the marine environment.
The Best House Reefs recognition further reinforces Dusit Thani Maldives’ position as a destination where luxury island living and remarkable marine encounters come together naturally.
For more information or to experience the award-winning house reef at Dusit Thani Maldives, visit the resort’s official website.
News
Marriott Bonvoy Resorts curate Maldives escapes for Saudi National Day holiday
As the Saudi National Day holiday approaches, the Maldives offers an irresistible invitation to slow down and reconnect with the people who matter most.
Just a short-haul journey from the Kingdom yet a world away from everyday life, its turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches, and private island settings provide the perfect backdrop for family gatherings, milestone celebrations, and well-deserved moments of relaxation. Whether traveling with children, extended family, close friends, or as a couple, guests can enjoy elevated stays defined by spacious villas, unparalleled privacy, bespoke experiences, world-class wellness, and thoughtful hospitality.
Across the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, each resort brings a unique perspective to island living, from contemporary architectural retreats and family-focused sanctuaries to marine adventures, cultural discoveries, and wellness-inspired escapes. Together, these extraordinary destinations showcase the many facets of the Maldives, inviting travellers to create unforgettable memories this Saudi National Day.
Private Island Sanctuaries for Meaningful Gatherings
Set within the stunning Fari Islands archipelago, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands combines contemporary architecture, personalised service, and island tranquility. Designed by renowned architect Kerry Hill, its spacious villas are complemented by private pools and expansive indoor-outdoor living. Families and groups can retreat to generous two-bedroom villas, while The Ritz-Carlton Estate, a private four-bedroom oceanfront residence, creates an impeccable setting for milestone celebrations and multi-generational escapes. Dedicated Aris Meeha island butlers curate every detail of the stay, while the extended Saudi National Day celebrations feature Saudi Flag Art, a Traditional Henna Atelier, an Arabian Delights Dinner, and an exclusive SUSHISAMBA Dubai pop-up at EAU Bar. Located 50 minutes from Malé by luxury speedboat, the resort invites guests to experience privacy, culture, and elevated island living in an extraordinary island setting.

Framed by rainforest foliage and white-sand beaches, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is one of the Maldives’ finest addresses for families seeking privacy, space, and exceptional service. Spacious two- and three-bedroom villas cater to multi-generational stays, while the newly reimagined Two-Bedroom Family Villa creates an inviting retreat for quality time together. For larger celebrations, the Caroline Astor Estate and the John Jacob Astor Estate, one of the Maldives’ largest overwater residences, deliver unparalleled space and exclusivity. Beyond the villa, guests can snorkel the vibrant house reef, embark on private yacht journeys aboard Norma, and renew mind and body at the award-winning Iridium Spa. At ALBA, international cuisine is complemented by Middle Eastern favourites, while the signature St. Regis Butler Service ensures every stay is tailored to individual preferences. The resort is reached via a scenic 45-minute seaplane journey from Malé.

A scenic 50-minute seaplane journey from Malé brings guests to JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, where families can reconnect through meaningful moments designed for every generation. Spacious Overwater Duplex Villas and Two-Bedroom Duplex Beach Villas with Pool combine privacy, comfort, and intuitive Thakuru personal butler service. Young travellers can spend their days at Family by JW™ Little Griffins Kids’ Club, one of the largest in the Maldives, with more than 100 engaging activities. Families can come together through cooking classes using fresh ingredients from the JW Garden, traditional Boduberu evenings, and rejuvenating treatments at Spa by JW. Complimentary bicycles allow guests to explore the island at a relaxed pace, taking in the beauty of their tropical surroundings.

Adventure and Ocean Discovery
Situated on in North Ari Atoll, W Maldives is a vibrant private island retreat where luxury and adventure go hand in hand. Renowned for its award-winning house reef and guided excursions to encounter nurse sharks in their natural habitat, the resort is a favourite among marine life enthusiasts. Its 77 newly refreshed beach and overwater villas feature private pools and generous indoor-outdoor living spaces, while the two-bedroom Oasis Beach Villa with Slide is ideal for families and groups. Guests can enjoy private beach barbecues, sunset cruises, and exclusive escapes to Gaathafushi, the resort’s private island, where bespoke dining and intimate celebrations unfold in complete seclusion. Accessible via a 25-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport, W Maldives delivers a spirited and contemporary take on island living.

Surrounded by a rare 360-degree lagoon in Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa brings together the glamour of the French Riviera and the beauty of the Maldives. Families and groups can choose from spacious beach and overwater villas, while the Three-Bedroom Thilamaafushi Villa presents an expansive retreat for larger gatherings. Guests can snorkel alongside sea turtles year-round, visit the Marine Conservation Hub, harvest ingredients at The Greenhouse, and take part in creative activities from padel matches to art workshops. Afternoons come alive at the Au Soleil pool party, while evenings reveal a different kind of wonder. Located at 5° north of the equator, the resort is uniquely positioned for guided stargazing, where constellations from both hemispheres illuminate the night sky above the Indian Ocean.

Nestled within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is a wellness retreat surrounded by some of the Maldives’ richest marine ecosystems. Guests can discover more than 250 species of coral, seasonal manta ray aggregations, and unforgettable encounters with whale sharks. Spacious family beach and overwater villas foster privacy and relaxation, while the two-bedroom Heavenly Beach Residence serves as a luxurious sanctuary for larger groups. Wellness remains central to every stay, from the signature Heavenly® Bed and Sleep Well rituals to restorative yoga sessions, 24/7 access to the WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio, and healthy dining through the Eat Well menu. Whether exploring the underwater world or relaxing with loved ones, the resort inspires a sense of balance, renewal, and connection.

Effortless Island Escapes Within Easy Reach from Malé
Set on the natural island of Furanafushi, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa combines accessibility, authentic island charm, and family-friendly programming. Following a comprehensive resort-wide transformation, accommodations, dining venues and public spaces have been thoughtfully reimagined while preserving the island’s tropical character. Accommodation ranges from interconnecting guest rooms to spacious beachfront villas, including the Ocean Pool Villa with uninterrupted ocean views, a private plunge pool, and expansive indoor-outdoor living spaces. Days can be spent participating in the Adopt-a-Coral conservation initiative, enjoying Maldivian Journey cultural immersion, snorkelling, dolphin cruises, and nurse shark encounters. Beyond seven dining venues serving Mediterranean, Thai, and international cuisine, guests can savour destination dining experiences ranging from a leisurely Furanafushi Picnic to a romantic Sunset Dinner on the beach. Just 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé, Sheraton Maldives is one of the destination’s most convenient family escapes.

Located in Kaafu Atoll, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort brings together residential-style luxury, cultural immersion, and family-friendly activities. Spacious two-bedroom beach and overwater villas, along with the three-bedroom Ocean Residence, create a sophisticated setting for families and groups. The Ocean Residence features a private gym, spa treatment room, and waterslide leading directly into the lagoon. Guests are welcomed by dedicated Safeeru ambassadors, while younger travellers can discover creativity and adventure at the Family by JW™ Kids’ Club. Adventures range from dolphin cruises and nurse shark snorkelling to culinary journeys across seven distinctive dining venues inspired by Indian Ocean, Mediterranean, South American, and Nikkei cuisine. Meaningful moments of connection and discovery bring families together, creating cherished memories to take home.
Marriott Bonvoy members can seamlessly earn and redeem points on stays and experiences at the resorts. To know more about the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives, please visit marriott.com/maldives.
News
Sirru Fen Fushi celebrates Golden Week and Mid-Autumn Festival with Golden Autumn Escape
This autumn, Sirru Fen Fushi–Private Lagoon Resort invites guests to celebrate two of China’s most cherished annual traditions with the launch of Golden Autumn Escape, an immersive programme inspired by Golden Week and the Mid-Autumn Festival, taking place from 25 September to 10 October 2026.
Designed for couples, families and multigenerational travellers, the two-week celebration blends Chinese cultural inspiration with the natural beauty of the Maldives, offering an unforgettable collection of wellness experiences, culinary journeys, family activities, sustainability initiatives and ocean adventures.

Throughout the programme, guests can discover experiences curated to encourage connection, relaxation and celebration. Culinary highlights include The Golden Duck Soirée, Moonlight Hot Pot Experience, Wine & Sake Dinner, Imperial Seafood Feast, Lagoon Wine Tasting, and hands-on Dumpling Making and Sushi Making classes inspired by Asian flavours and traditions.

Families can enjoy a vibrant programme of creative activities including lantern making, Golden Cookie Art, treasure hunts, cupcake decorating, origami workshops and festive crafts, while guests of all ages are invited to take part in Mahjong sessions, canvas painting, coconut art, archery and a variety of sporting activities.
Surrounded by one of the Maldives’ largest natural lagoons and a thriving house reef, guests can also experience unforgettable marine adventures including nurse shark snorkelling, sunset dolphin cruises, turtle research, Coralarium discovery tours, coral planting, scuba experiences and private ocean excursions.

Adding another dimension to this year’s celebration is the exclusive wellness residency of internationally recognised holistic wellness consultant Dr Hetalkumar Doshi, founder of Energy Masters.
Throughout the Golden Autumn programme, Dr Doshi will lead a selection of immersive wellbeing experiences inspired by his holistic approach to health and the philosophy of the Five Elements. Guests can participate in guided Breathwork Meditation, Reiki Healing, Sunset Signature Flow Yoga, Sound Healing, Silent Walking Meditation, and Stress Relief Through Breath & Sound sessions, alongside personalised healing experiences and complimentary wellbeing consultations.

The residency reflects Sirru Fen Fushi’s ongoing commitment to offering transformative wellness experiences that nurture physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing while connecting guests with the tranquillity of the island.
In addition to wellness and cultural celebrations, sustainability remains at the heart of the programme. Guests are invited to participate in signature experiences including Coralarium Discovery Tours, Coral Planting, Sustainability Lab Tours, Turtle Tag Making and Ghost Net Bracelet Braiding, offering meaningful opportunities to contribute to marine conservation during their stay.

Speaking about the programme, Rudrojit Deb, General Manager, said: “Golden Week and the Mid-Autumn Festival are among the most significant celebrations for Chinese travellers, centred around family, gratitude and togetherness. Through Golden Autumn Escape, we wanted to create a programme that honours these traditions while showcasing the unique experiences that make Sirru Fen Fushi such a special destination. From exceptional dining and holistic wellness to marine adventures and sustainability experiences, every element has been thoughtfully designed to create meaningful moments for our guests.”

Golden Autumn Escape forms part of Sirru Fen Fushi’s continued focus on creating immersive seasonal experiences that combine authentic Maldivian hospitality with thoughtfully curated programming for international travellers.
The full programme runs from 25 September to 10 October 2026, with daily experiences taking place across the resort.

For further information and reservations, please visit the resort’s website or contact reservations@sirrufenfushi.com.
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