The Emirates Group has delivered a record-breaking financial performance for the first half of 2025-26, posting a profit before tax of AED 12.2 billion (US$ 3.3 billion), up 17% compared to the same period last year. The achievement marks the fourth consecutive year of record half-year profitability for the group.
Emirates Airline itself reported a profit before tax of AED 11.4 billion (US$ 3.1 billion), up 17%, with revenues rising 6% to AED 65.6 billion (US$ 17.9 billion). The strong performance reflects continued global travel demand and increasing customer preference for Emirates’ premium cabins. During the period, Emirates carried 27.8 million passengers, a 4% increase from last year, while cargo operations transported 1.25 million tonnes, also up 4%.
The airline strengthened its network by launching new flights to Danang, Siem Reap, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou, and adding 28 additional weekly flights to cities including Johannesburg, Rome, and Riyadh. Emirates also expanded partnerships with Air Seychelles, Condor, and Aurigny, enhancing connectivity for customers.
Emirates continued modernizing its fleet with the delivery of five new A350 aircraft and the rollout of 23 refreshed aircraft interiors, including Business Class and Premium Economy cabins. Premium Economy is now available on flights to 61 cities, offering more choice for travelers seeking comfort and value.
On the ground, Emirates launched “Emirates First” at Dubai Airport, providing First Class passengers and Platinum Skywards members with a luxurious private check-in experience. Retail expansion continued globally, with new concept stores opening in Accra, Bangkok, Geneva, Jakarta, Mauritius, Osaka, Seoul, and Singapore.
Meanwhile, dnata, Emirates’ travel, catering, and ground services arm, also posted strong results with a profit before tax of AED 843 million (US$ 230 million), up 17%, on revenues of AED 11.7 billion (US$ 3.2 billion), a 13% increase. Growth was driven by expanded airport operations, catering, retail, and travel services, including the launch of 800 new ground support equipment units and new hospitality offerings under the marhaba brand in the UK.
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, said:
“The Group has once again delivered an outstanding performance, surpassing our half-year results of last year to achieve a new record profit for H1 2025-26. Emirates maintains its position as the world’s most profitable airline for this half-year reporting period.”
He added that global demand for air travel remains strong, and the Group plans to expand capacity further with new aircraft and facilities. The Emirates Group workforce grew 3% to 124,927 employees to support expanded operations and continued growth.
