Middle East insights: IFC expectations are soaring
12-12-2025
3-minute read
Discover what passengers in the Middle East demand from in-flight connectivity. Our latest research reveals the expectations that will define loyalty and revenue in this passenger-first market.
What’s driving demand for NB-NTN?
Summary
Middle East passenger expectations for in-flight connectivity are reaching new heights. They're demanding seamless, personalized, essential digital journeys – and airlines that understand these shifting expectations will capture loyalty and revenue.
Our survey reveals critical insights into what UAE and Middle Eastern passengers expect, need, and dream of when they fly. In many cases, their vision for connectivity already surpasses what the industry currently offers.
The Middle East advantage: understanding your passengers
Airlines serving Middle Eastern routes face unique opportunities. Here's what your passengers are telling us.
Connectivity is non-negotiable
53%
of UAE passengers in 2023 demanded reliable in-flight Wi-Fi (up from 45%). It's a fundamental expectation.
The ultimate loyalty driver
83%
of UAE passengers would rebook with an airline where they experienced high-quality long-haul Wi-Fi, outpacing the global figure.
Personal devices reign supreme
79%
use personal devices onboard for social media, and 66% for work. Seamless integration is essential.
Personalization is power
43%
are happy to share data on their interests to benefit from enhanced journeys, enabling hyper-personalized content and offers.
IFC is critical to commercial success in the Middle East
If airlines don't live up to passenger expectations in this competitive market, it will have significant commercial implications. The Middle East represents a unique opportunity for airlines that get connectivity right.
83% would rebook based on Wi-Fi quality alone – loyalty is directly tied to connectivity.
41% are willing to pay for premium social media access – a clear revenue opportunity.
65% accept ad-supported models – a viable path to free Wi-Fi with monetization.
It's crucial to build a platform for today and tomorrow. You need an infrastructure that has the tools to deliver the experiences that passengers in the region want, and you need the speed and flexibility to adapt – especially in a region where everyone is used to a fast pace of customer-centric innovation.
Dharmesh Jina
Head of Middle East Aviation at Viasat
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