The Emirates Group has recorded its highest-ever financial performance for the 2025/2026 fiscal year, with Emirates once again emerging as the world’s most profitable airline despite disruptions in the Gulf region towards the end of the reporting period.
The aviation giant announced a record pre-tax profit of AED24.4 billion (US$6.6 billion), representing a 7 per cent increase compared to the previous year. Group revenue also climbed to an all-time high of AED150.5 billion (US$41 billion), while cash assets rose to AED59.6 billion (US$16.2 billion).
Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, described the results as proof of the company’s resilience and strong business model.
According to him, the Group maintained strong demand for its services throughout most of the financial year, driven by continued investments in technology, staff development, customer experience and brand growth.
He noted that operations were significantly affected on February 28 after military activities disrupted commercial air traffic across the Gulf region, including the UAE. However, Emirates and dnata swiftly responded to protect operations, support passengers and ensure business continuity.
Sheikh Ahmed said the company’s ability to recover from crises over the years has been made possible by its workforce and customer-focused strategy.
During the fiscal year, the Emirates Group invested AED17.9 billion (US$4.9 billion) in new aircraft, equipment, facilities and technology to strengthen future expansion plans.
The Group’s workforce also expanded by 8 per cent to 130,919 employees as recruitment increased across global operations. The number of UAE nationals working within the Group also surpassed 4,000.
Emirates stated that it remains protected against fuel market volatility through hedging arrangements secured until 2028/2029, while long-term agreements with suppliers are expected to support its return to full operational capacity.
The airline currently operates flights to 152 cities across 80 countries and has expanded its connectivity through 32 codeshare agreements and 117 interline partnerships, giving passengers access to more than 1,700 destinations worldwide.
At the 2025 Dubai Airshow, Emirates announced additional aircraft investments valued at US$41.4 billion, including orders for 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft and eight Airbus A350-900 jets. Its total aircraft order book now stands at 367 planes scheduled for delivery through 2038.
Emirates transported 53.2 million passengers during the year, slightly lower than the previous year, while maintaining a passenger seat factor of 78.4 per cent.
The airline also introduced new accessibility initiatives, including an “Accessible and Inclusive Travel Hub” on its website to support travellers with special needs. It also launched sensory support products and airport travel rehearsal programmes for children with autism and their families.
Meanwhile, Emirates SkyCargo transported 2.4 million tonnes of cargo globally, marking a 3 per cent increase from the previous year.
Its subsidiary, dnata, also recorded strong growth, with revenue rising 12 per cent to AED23.6 billion (US$6.4 billion), driven by increased travel activities across key markets including Australia, Europe, the UAE, the UK and the United States.
The Emirates Airline Foundation also continued its humanitarian efforts by supporting 13 global projects focused on education, healthcare, shelter and feeding programmes for disadvantaged children.
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