Emirates has once again set a new standard in the aviation industry by sweeping four prestigious categories at the 2025 Business Traveller Middle East (BTME) Awards, held in Dubai.

This remarkable achievement includes winning the highly coveted Best Airline Worldwide award for the twelfth consecutive year-a testament to the airline’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

In addition to this global recognition, Emirates dominated the awards by securing Best First Class, Best Premium Economy Class, and Best Airport Lounge in the Middle East, reflecting the airline’s comprehensive approach to delivering outstanding service both in the air and on the ground.

These accolades come amid a period of significant growth and transformation for Emirates, as it continues to expand its fleet, enhance its onboard products, and elevate the overall travel experience for millions of passengers worldwide.

The airline’s success at the BTME Awards highlights its ability to consistently meet and exceed the evolving expectations of discerning business travelers and luxury seekers in an increasingly competitive global market.

A Legacy of Excellence and Industry Recognition

The BTME Awards, determined through a transparent public voting process reflecting genuine traveler preferences, add to Emirates’ growing list of 2025 accolades. These include recognition as a 2025 APEX World Class Airline and top rankings in Telegraph Travel’s global airline study for fleet modernity, rewards value, and onboard dining.

The wins underscore Emirates’ strategic investments in fleet upgrades, cabin innovation, and loyalty programs, with its Skywards rewards platform also earning global acclaim at the 2024 World Travel Awards.

Fleet Modernization and Premium Economy’s Rise

Emirates’ $2 billion retrofit program has upgraded 51 of its 219 aircraft to date, introducing its acclaimed Premium Economy Class across refurbished Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s. Launched in 2022, this cabin class features 19.5-inch-wide leather seats with 38-inch pitch, six-way adjustable headrests, and dedicated calf rests-a configuration praised for bridging the gap between Economy and Business Class.

By late 2025, the airline’s new Airbus A350 fleet, equipped with next-generation lie-flat seats and mood-lighting systems, will expand its Premium Economy offerings to over 70 global destinations.

First Class Opulence and Lounge Luxury

The Best First Class win highlights Emirates’ iconic private suites, offering sliding doors, personal minibars, and gourmet dining with complimentary caviar. On the ground, its three Dubai International Airport lounges-honored as Best in the Middle East-set industry benchmarks with à la carte dining, Timeless spas offering complimentary treatments, cigar lounges, and exclusive duty-free boutiques.

Premium Economy’s Competitive Edge

Emirates’ Premium Economy cabin, available on routes to New York, Paris, London, and Frankfurt, features a 2-4-2 layout with wood-accented tray tables, electronic window shades, and reusable amenity kits.

While meals mirror Economy Class offerings, passengers enjoy exclusive perks like Chandon Vintage Brut 2017 sparkling wine and priority boarding. The cabin’s front-of-plane placement ensures quicker disembarkation-a critical advantage for connecting travelers.

Brand Power and Future Vision

Emirates’ brand value surged to $8.4 billion in 2024, driven by its Premium Economy expansion and lounge enhancements. With 36 refurbished aircraft already operational-including A380s offering 56 Premium Economy seats per plane-the airline aims to redefine accessibility to luxury travel while maintaining its dominance in First Class innovation.

Why It Matters: These awards validate Emirates’ dual focus on elevating premium experiences and democratizing luxury, ensuring its position as the airline of choice for both business elites and discerning leisure travelers worldwide.

Since its launch in 2013, Greece’s Golden Visa Program has emerged as one of Europe’s most affordable and attractive residence-by-investment schemes. Designed to draw foreign investors and their families, the program offers permanent residence permits in Greece in exchange for qualifying investments. Beyond securing a foothold in this picturesque Mediterranean country, holders enjoy visa-free access to the broader Schengen Area, unlocking opportunities for travel, education, and long-term settlement throughout much of Europe.

At its core, the Golden Visa grants investors the right to live in Greece without requiring them to reside there permanently. While the investment must be maintained to renew the residence permit every five years, applicants can pursue Greek citizenship after seven years of continuous residence—a compelling prospect for those seeking deeper ties to Europe.

One of the program’s key attractions is its family inclusion provision, allowing the primary applicant to include their spouse, dependent children under 21, and dependent parents from both sides, offering a pathway for entire families to benefit from the residence permit.

The program’s investment thresholds vary according to the type and location of assets. The most accessible option starts at €250,000, specifically for specialized real estate projects like restoration of listed buildings or conversion of commercial properties. For broader real estate purchases, a minimum investment of €400,000 is required for a single property of at least 120 sqm, with prime locations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and the larger Greek islands commanding a higher threshold of €800,000.

Beyond property, the scheme includes other qualifying routes. Investors can opt for long-term lease agreements for hotels or furnished tourist residences, generally valued between €400,000 and €800,000 based on location. Financial investments are also accepted, including a €500,000 deposit in Greek credit institutions, capital contributions of the same amount in Greek companies or mutual funds, or the purchase of government bonds maturing in at least three years. Additionally, investments in listed shares, corporate bonds, or mutual funds linked to Greece range from €350,000 to €800,000.

For global investors, the program offers a wealth of benefits. Apart from visa-free travel across the Schengen zone, holders can live in Greece without mandatory minimum stays. Investment properties may be rented out, while shares in Greek companies can yield dividends, providing financial flexibility. As long as the investment is maintained, the residence permit has no expiry limit and can be renewed every five years.

Furthermore, residents gain access to Greece’s reputable education and healthcare systems, enhancing its appeal for families seeking stability and quality of life in Europe.

The application process typically involves four key steps. Prospective investors first visit Greece to select their preferred investment. They then complete their property purchase or financial transaction before submitting the application accompanied by essential documents such as passports, proof of investment, health insurance, and clean criminal records. After undergoing final verification, the residence permit is issued. Processing times can vary, with many applicants engaging legal and advisory firms to ensure compliance with all documentation requirements.

Greece’s Golden Visa Program stands out not only because of its affordability but also due to the country’s stable legal system, quality healthcare, and solid education network. Its strategic geographic location facilitates easy connections to Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a gateway for global mobility.

Today, the Greece Golden Visa remains a top choice for investors seeking residency security and enhanced mobility within Europe. With its adaptable investment options, family inclusiveness, and an inviting lifestyle, the program continues to attract applicants from around the world eager to make Greece their new home.

Starting September 1, travelers to Bali, including Kiwis, must adapt to a new customs and immigration process with the introduction of the All Indonesia declaration card. This streamlined declaration form merges the existing customs and immigration processes into one, simplifying entry procedures at Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Travelers are required to complete the All Indonesia declaration online no more than 72 hours before their flight, which then generates a QR code to be presented upon arrival for immigration clearance. While the form integrates multiple procedures, it does not replace visa requirements, which must still be obtained separately.

Currently, this digital declaration system is being rolled out exclusively in Bali, with plans to extend it across all Indonesian international airports by October 1. The introduction of the All Indonesia system follows earlier changes this year, including a $15.50 (150,000 IDR) tourist levy implemented by the Bali Provincial Government to fund initiatives focused on preserving the island’s culture and natural environment.

This new approach aims to create a faster, more efficient, and user-friendly entry experience for travelers entering Bali while maintaining compliance with Indonesia’s immigration, customs, and health requirements.

Abu Dhabi is home to Etihad Airways, the UAE's national airline and one of the world's top carriers, offering a travel experience that goes far beyond simply getting from point A to B. Travelers can enjoy unique perks such as a free two-night stay at luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi when booking long-haul flights with stopovers, allowing for a mini-vacation within their journey.

The stopover experience is further enhanced with a Stopover Pass that provides 15 percent discounts on major attractions and Yas Island theme parks, along with a complimentary local SIM card loaded with 10GB data for seamless connectivity.

Passengers who booked Economy tickets can bid for upgrades to Business or First Class up to four hours before departure, gaining access to fully reclining seats and gourmet meals. Loyalty members enjoy an additional bonus on miles for successful bids. The Etihad Guest loyalty program rewards travelers who reach Silver status with free access to the luxurious Etihad Lounge at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, featuring vast buffets, bars, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Staying connected in-flight is made easy with free messaging on popular apps for all loyalty members, while First Class and Platinum members enjoy complimentary full Wi-Fi. For sports fans, Etihad streams live major sporting events on longer flights, ensuring passengers don’t miss crucial matches. Lastly, the airline offers the exceptional A380 multi-room private Residence suite on select routes, featuring a bedroom with a double bed, an ensuite bathroom with a shower, a plush living room, personalized dining, and even a spa treatment at the airport.

These features, along with attentive service and innovative amenities such as pre-order shopping and the Flying Nanny childcare service, make Etihad Airways a standout choice for travelers seeking comfort, luxury, and unique experiences from their flight.

Singapore Changi Airport is widely recognized as a premier dining destination, celebrated for its extensive range of food offerings catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Unlike typical airports known for overpriced and mediocre meals, Changi has curated a compelling food experience that attracts not only travelers but also many locals who regularly visit for casual dining and family outings.

The airport features over 300 dining establishments across its terminals and the Jewel Changi Airport complex, including casual eateries, food courts replicating Singapore’s famous hawker centers, and upscale restaurants. Its culinary variety ranges from local favorites like laksa, chicken rice, and roti prata to international cuisines such as Korean bibimbap and Indian specialties, tailored to the predominant flows of travelers in each terminal. Family-friendly options like Crown Prince Kitchenette are especially popular with locals.

Changi Airport Group maintains hands-on involvement in planning food and beverage outlets, focusing on passenger flow, seating comfort, and pricing equity with popular city locales like Orchard Road. Affordable prices, such as $2 coffees, are deliberately offered alongside premium dining experiences. Jewel Changi adds a unique dimension with spacious dining venues showcasing both global brands and local favorites, fostering a vibrant gastronomic hub.

Several new restaurants have launched recently, including Claypot Daddy and Gwangjang Gaon, blending affordable meals with authentic regional flavors. Innovative concepts such as a guided food trail game enhance engagement for both visitors and locals. Airport dining also adapts to operational constraints like kitchen exhaust limitations, ensuring quality and convenience with curated menus.

With ongoing expansion plans for Terminal 5, Changi aims to further broaden its dining portfolio with larger restaurants and more diverse offerings, securing its place as a world-leading airport culinary destination that celebrates Singapore’s rich food culture while meeting the needs of global travelers.

In a significant step towards digital transformation in travel, the Government of India has launched the e-Passport service, enabling applicants nationwide to obtain this advanced travel document. Launched on a pilot basis from April 1, 2024, the e-Passport initiative is a key highlight of the Passport Seva Program (PSP) 2.0, reflecting India’s commitment to upgrading citizen services through technology.

What sets the e-Passport apart is its integration of a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and antenna embedded within the passport cover. This chip securely stores the holder’s biometric data  including fingerprints, high-resolution facial images, and iris scans as well as personal details like name, date of birth, and passport number. This digital encoding, protected by advanced encryption and security protocols such as Basic Access Control (BAC), Passive Authentication, and Extended Access Control (EAC), makes e-Passports far more secure than traditional passports, virtually eliminating the possibility of forgery and tampering.

Distinguishable by a unique gold-colored emblem beneath the front cover, the e-Passport adheres to global standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), ensuring global interoperability and acceptance. This compliance also enables faster, automated immigration clearance through e-gates at airports, greatly reducing wait times and enhancing travel convenience.

Currently, several Regional Passport Offices across India including Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Jammu, Goa, Shimla, Raipur, Amritsar, Jaipur, Chennai, Hyderabad, Surat, and Ranchi are equipped to issue e-Passports. Citizens can apply via the official Passport Seva portal by registering or logging in, filling out the e-Passport application form, selecting a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office PSK close to them, paying the applicable fees, and scheduling an appointment. On the day of the appointment, biometric data is collected, and documents are verified to complete the issuance process.

Beyond enhanced security and streamlined border processing, the e-Passport protects personal data through encrypted biometrics, supports digital verification to maintain data integrity over the passport’s lifespan, and eliminates printing of residential addresses in the physical document, safeguarding privacy by restricting access to sensitive information to authorized officials only.

This rollout is part of a phased national implementation with expectations that by mid-2025, most new passports issued will be electronic, marking India’s stride toward a ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision of technologically empowered services for all citizens.

With the e-Passport, India joins over 120 countries offering biometric passports that blend traditional document reliability with cutting-edge digital security, substantially enhancing the safety, convenience, and global acceptance of Indian travel documents.