TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - As global travel continues to rebound, the role of international airports has evolved beyond transit hubs—they've become destinations in their own right. In line with this shift, some airports have elevated their standards, earning global recognition as the best international airports in the world.
From cutting-edge technology to world-class amenities and exceptional architectural design, these airports are setting new standards in welcoming global travelers. Leading the way are standout names like Istanbul, Singapore Changi, and Doha Hamad.
List of the Best International Airports
Travel + Leisure, a renowned New York-based travel magazine, has unveiled its 2025 readers’ choice ranking of the best international airports of 2025. Dominated by entries from Asia and the Middle East, here’s the full list:
1. Istanbul Airport
Topping the list, Istanbul Airport has been crowned the best international airport in the world of 2025. First opened in 2018, this Turkey’s gateway has quickly made its name on the global aviation stage, thanks to its vast yet easily navigable layout and grandeur, modern design.
As a major global hub connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the airport is frequently praised by travelers for striking a remarkable balance between functionality and luxury.
2. Singapore Changi Airport
Singapore Changi Airport remains a top contender when it comes to airport excellence.
Famously home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, Changi stands out for its strong emphasis on both innovation and hospitality. Its unique amenities, from movie theaters to a butterfly garden and a rooftop swimming pool, deliver not only the warmest welcome but also a truly memorable experience filled with impressive sights and attractions.
3. Doha Hamad International Airport
Hailed as one of the world’s most modern airports, Doha Hamad has long been standing at the forefront of modern air travel. Adorned with ultra-modern design and cutting-edge technologies, this hub redefines what seamless travel looks like. For luxury shoppers, Doha Hamad is simply a true haven, featuring a curated selection of some of the world’s best and most luxurious brands.
4. Zayed International Airport
Formerly Abu Dhabi International Airport, Zayed International is widely recognized as one of the best international airports in the world. Connecting over 120 passenger destinations through more than 30 airlines, its futuristic Terminal A seamlessly showcases Emirati design, technological sophistication, and world-class amenities.
Notable highlights include an advanced baggage handling system capable of processing 19,200 bags per hour, and a sprawling 35,000-square-meter space housing 163 retail and dining outlets.
5. Dubai International Airport
Ranked as the second-busiest airport in the world, Dubai International continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the global aviation landscape. Equipped with advanced technologies, luxurious amenities, and relentless pursuit of excellence, DXB serves millions of passengers each year—reaching a record-breaking 92.3 million travelers in 2024. Many of these guests have taken full advantage of the airport’s expansive array of duty-free shops, retail outlets, and diverse dining experiences.
6. Hong Kong International Airport
Hong Kong International Airport shows no signs of stepping down when it comes to unrivaled connectivity and thoughtfully curated facilities. As highlighted by HK City Guide, HKG handles around 1,100 flights per day across more than 220 destinations, welcoming travelers with warmth and professionalism from the moment they arrive. A testament to Hong Kong’s fierce ambition for excellence, this airport is uniquely located on an artificial island and even features an IMAX cinema.
7. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport
Among the top ten, Helsinki-Vantaa is the only newcomer to Travel + Leisure’s 2025 list. Renowned for its cleanliness and passenger-friendly design, the airport’s rising reputation can be largely attributed to €1 billion redevelopment completed in autumn 2023. The expansion not only increased the airport’s capacity but also significantly improved the overall passenger experience, allowing it to serve up to 30 million travelers annually.
8. Tokyo Haneda Airport
Reflecting Japan’s high position among the most technologically advanced countries, Tokyo Haneda offers an early glimpse of its innovation at Tokyo Haneda Airport. Consistently ranked among the cleanest airports globally, it’s renowned for delivering top-tier efficiency and service. Coupled with its wide range of eateries, Tokyo Haneda fuels passengers’ happiness right down to their appetites.
9. Chaatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
Mumbai’s primary airport has steadily risen in global rankings, largely driven by improvement in infrastructure, artistic design, and enhanced passenger services.
Among its many highlights, Terminal 2 is a notable standout, featuring modern architecture, a wide variety of shops, and the globally recognized Artbeat of New India—a curated art program celebrating India’s rich and diverse heritage in art, craft, and design.
10. Incheon International
Incheon International rounds out the list of the best international airports of 2025. With entertainment options like an ice skating rink, cultural performances, and high-speed rail access, ICN blends modern convenience with rich Korean culture. Its efficiency and hospitality keep it a staple on the global stage.
Today, airports are more than just places to get from point A to point B—they’ve evolved into destinations in their own right. Spending more time at any of these top international airports unfolds how they elevate the very definition of efficiency, hospitality, and world-class travel experiences.
Editor's Choice: Which Are the Busiest Airports in the World? List of July 2025 Edition
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