Now accepting applications for Fast Company Middle East’s Best Workplaces For Women 2023. Click here to register.

The 17th edition of the ULTRAs, the luxury travel awards ceremony, unveiled the world’s leading hotels, destinations, airlines, airports, and cruise lines as voted for by the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme members.

Organized at Dubai’s Nikki Beach Club by Nick Perry, Chairman of the multi-media brand Ultratravel, the event was a collaboration with Global Hotel Alliance. Known for operating the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty program, this alliance has a longstanding joint venture with Ultratravel Collection.

“With the ULTRAs awards based on the opinions and preferences of our 25 million GHA DISCOVERY members, who travel on average 4-5 times a year, they are a true barometer of luxury traveler sentiment,” said GHA CEO Chris Hartley.

Recognizing travel leaders across 18 categories, each winner was voted for by GHA DISCOVERY’s global membership. Nine categories featured properties operated by GHA’s hotel brands. Hotel Lutetia Paris earned the title “Ultratravel Collection Hotel of the Year,” while Portrait Milano was voted the “Best New Hotel in the World.”

Similarly, Capella was honored as the “Ultratravel Luxury Brand of the Year,” and Pan Pacific Orchard was selected as the “Favorite Green Collection Hotel.”

At the same time, Dubai’s homegrown airline, Emirates, clinched two awards – “Best Airline in the World” and “Best Airline in the Middle East.” The emirate’s Dubai International (DXB) airport was recognized as the “Best Airport in the World.”

Regarding the most popular destinations in 2023, Japan was crowned as members’ “Favorite Country for a Holiday.”