The brand that matters in travel, tourism & aviation in 2026

Fast Company Middle East unveils the Brands That Matter 2026 list, celebrating 32 winners across 19 categories. These brands are making a real difference, combining purpose with performance to create lasting impact. From advertising and banking & finance to retail and technology, they’re reshaping industries and championing values that matter most today

The travel, tourism, and aviation sector is capitalizing on a convergence of strong fundamentals: rising global mobility, aggressive destination marketing, and government investment in hospitality and experience infrastructure. As visitor targets grow more ambitious and competition between destinations intensifies, the sector is under pressure to deliver quality and scale in equal measure.

flydubai

For putting more of the world within reach

In 2025, flydubai set a new record by carrying 15.7 million passengers to over 140 destinations in 58 countries, including many places that previously had no direct flights from Dubai. The airline’s partnership with Emirates helped more than 2.5 million passengers travel across a combined network of 243 destinations in 103 countries. Over the year, flydubai added 11 new interline agreements, bringing the total to 42 partners and giving passengers access to more than 300 destinations. The airline also introduced a dedicated Business Class check-in and lounge at Dubai Terminal 2. It began offering complimentary meals and entertainment in all classes on every route, while keeping fares unchanged.