Now in its 22nd edition, the Airline Strategy Awards are among the aviation industry’s most prestigious accolades, recognising exceptional leadership, strategic vision and outstanding contributions to the global airline sector. Organised by Flight Global in partnership with Korn Ferry, the awards are judged by an independent panel of distinguished aviation experts.

The award recognises Adel Al Ali’s outstanding leadership, vision, and significant contribution to the growth and transformation of the aviation industry across the Middle East and Africa. Since founding Air Arabia in October 2003, he has been instrumental in pioneering the low-cost business model in the Arab world and beyond and making affordable air travel accessible to hundreds of millions of passengers.

Commenting on the award, Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia, said: “I am truly honoured to receive this recognition, which is a testament to the dedication, passion and commitment of the entire Air Arabia team. For more than two decades, we have remained focused on making air travel more accessible while building a resilient, sustainable business that delivers long-term value to our customers, shareholders, and the communities we serve. This recognition not only celebrates our journey so far but also inspires us to continue innovating and contributing to the sustainable growth of the industry.”

Under his leadership, Air Arabia not only pioneered the LCC model in the Middle East and North Africa but has also grown into the region’s largest budget airline operator, serving more than 200 destinations across over 50 countries through a network of operating hubs in the UAE, Morocco, Egypt, and Pakistan. Today, the airline plays a pivotal role in enhancing regional connectivity, supporting tourism and economic development in the markets it serves, and contributing to the continued growth and evolution of the aviation sector.

The recognition comes on the back of another landmark year for Air Arabia. In 2025, the Group delivered its strongest-ever financial and operational performance, reporting a record net profit of AED 1.8 billion and turnover of AED 7.78 billion. Reinforcing its long-term growth strategy, the Group expanded its network with nearly 30 new routes during the year and continued to invest in its future fleet, supported by an existing order for 120 Airbus A320 Family aircraft.

Building on this momentum, Air Arabia has continued to expand its network and operations in 2026 despite an increasingly challenging geopolitical environment. Most recently, the airline launched new non-stop services from its main hub in Sharjah to London Gatwick and Rome Fiumicino, further strengthening its international connectivity and reinforcing its position as the region’s leading budget carrier.