Bahrain International Airport Ranks Among the Middle East's Top Airports

By H Naser
TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain International Airport (BIA) has secured a prestigious position in the 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards, ranking third among the best airports in the Middle East.  The ranking, announced by Skytrax—a leading independent airport review and ranking organisation—reflects BIA's commitment to providing exceptional passenger experiences.

The Skytrax rankings are based on a comprehensive evaluation of various factors throughout the passenger journey, from check-in to departure.  These factors include shopping and dining experiences, comfort levels, and overall ease of navigation.  The awards are considered a true benchmark for airport service quality worldwide.

Skytrax highlighted several key aspects contributing to BIA's high ranking.  The airport's passenger terminal design was praised for its efficient and comfortable layout, facilitating smooth movement throughout all stages of travel.  The incorporation of natural light, interior design elements, and artwork creates a unique and aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.

The report also noted the abundance of comfortable seating throughout the airport, including departure gates and waiting areas.  The seating is designed to meet the diverse needs of passengers, including those with reduced mobility.

Skytrax further commended BIA's extensive range of shopping and dining options, as well as its advanced security procedures.  Smart security measures allow passengers to move easily through checkpoints without removing laptops or liquids.  The availability of high-quality services, facilities, and rooms at the Bahrain Airport Hotel, offering comfort and relaxation between flights, also contributed to the positive assessment.

BIA has maintained a five-star rating from Skytrax since 2022, a testament to its consistently high standards of service and facilities.  The Skytrax evaluation encompassed various criteria, including direct services upon arrival and departure, transfer services, airport facilities, customer service, security, immigration and passport procedures, shopping, and food and beverage offerings.  The five-star rating is Skytrax's highest accolade for airports globally.

It's worth noting that the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)-based airports dominated the top spots in the 2024 rankings for best Middle East airports.  Hamad International Airport in Qatar secured the top spot as the best airport in the region.  Dubai International Airport came in second. Following BIA in third place in the Arab region were King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, and Muscat International Airport.