The two big Gulf airlines fly almost everywhere through Dubai and Doha. Qatar Airways wins the awards for economy and business class; Emirates has premium economy, the A380 and the best entertainment.
🌍 Global · Last updated November 13, 2026
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It's too close to call overall. Qatar Airways wins on the seats most people book: Skytrax ranked its economy third in the world for 2026 and its business class first. Emirates wins on premium economy, first class and entertainment.
Skytrax 2026 ranks Qatar's economy No. 3 worldwide; Emirates is outside the top 20.
Qatar's Qsuite won Skytrax's best business class for 2026; Emirates ranked No. 11.
Only Emirates sells premium economy, and its first class ranked fourth in the world.
Emirates won Skytrax's best inflight entertainment; Qatar offers free Starlink Wi-Fi to members.
Qatar is in the oneworld alliance; Emirates is in none.
Reviewers consistently rate Qatar's catering higher.
Pick Emirates for premium economy, first class, the A380 or a stopover in Dubai.
Pick Qatar Airways for economy comfort, business class and oneworld miles.
ⓘ Seats and service differ by aircraft on both airlines. Check which plane flies your route before you book.