Dubai International Airport has been named the “most luxurious” in the world, according to travel experts All Clear Travel Insurance.
In an analysis of more than 1,800 global airports it was ranked as the best in the world for luxury experiences.
With its zen gardens, luxury hotels, swimming pool, cinema and boutique dining Dubai took the top spot.
Qatar’s Hamad International Airport was ranked third in a strong showing for the Middle East.
The rankings were based on the airports selection of passenger lounges available, with a minimum of 10 required.
Each airport was then scored on several factors, from how many designer shops it has, to how many four and five-star hotels are located nearby.
Each airport was also given a score based on how many lounges are available to passengers, and whether you can find a premium drinks bars or a caviar house to rest at while waiting to board.
The world’s most luxurious airport, according to All Clear Travel Insurance, is in the UAE.
It said: “Dubai International Airport sees 90m passengers transit through it per year, lands in first place as the go-to airport for anyone seeking a luxurious start to their layover”.
Following closely behind is London’s Heathrow Airport, while Doha International Airport in Qatar completes the top three.
Highlighting the luxury attractions at Dubai International Airport, the insurance specialist said: “Dubai as a destination is well known across the world for luxury and wealth, so it’s not too surprising that the airport ranks as the most luxurious on the globe.
“The airport is the fastest-growing aviation hub in the world, and it even has its own five-star hotel located inside the airport itself.
“With zen gardens, an outdoor swimming pool, a gym, cinemas and a bounty of restaurants – this is one airport that will certainly leave you feeling refreshed ahead of jumping on your flight.
“The factor that clinched the win for Dubai Airport is the number of four- and five-star hotels within a three-mile radius of the airport, with over 70 luxury hotels for travellers to choose from”.
Also praising Hamad International Airport, the report said: “Qatar airport is home to the world’s third most luxurious airport, and believe it or not, the airport alone is about a third of the size of Doha, the city it’s located in.
“This beautiful airport has a roof shaped like a wave, while the interior is designed with an aquatic theme. Water features run throughout, and all represent the gentle waves of the Arabian Gulf.
“Doha’s airport also scored highly for the number of four- and five-star hotels within its vicinity, as well as having many luxury brands like Hermès and Montblanc for shopping-hungry passengers”.
