Emirates Group Reports Record H1 Profit of AED12.2B, Driving Growth

The Emirates Group has announced a record-breaking financial performance for the first half of the 2025-26 fiscal year, posting a profit before tax of AED12.2 billion (US$3.3 billion), marking the fourth consecutive year of record profitability for the half-year period.

After accounting for income taxes, the Group’s profit after tax reached AED10.6 billion (US$2.9 billion), reflecting a 13% increase over the same period last year. The Group’s EBITDA stood at AED21.1 billion (US$5.7 billion), up 3% compared to H1 2024-25, highlighting the company’s strong operational efficiency.

Revenue for the first six months rose 4% to AED75.4 billion (US$20.6 billion), driven by sustained demand for Emirates’ premium travel offerings and dnata’s diversified services. The Group’s cash position also hit a record AED56 billion (US$15.2 billion), enabling ongoing investments in aircraft, infrastructure, and global operations.

H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, said: “The Group has delivered an outstanding performance, surpassing last year’s half-year results. Our profitability reflects the unflagging demand for our products and services, and reinforces our position as the world’s most profitable airline for this reporting period.”

Emirates Airline continued its expansion and innovation across global markets. The carrier launched new flights to Danang, Siem Reap, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou, increasing connectivity to 153 airports in 81 countries.

Five new A350 aircraft joined the fleet in H1 2025-26, while 23 aircraft received full interior upgrades as part of the US$5 billion retrofit program, expanding Emirates’ Premium Economy and Business Class offerings. The airline carried 27.8 million passengers, up 4% from last year, with a Passenger Seat Factor of 79.5%.

Emirates SkyCargo transported 1.25 million tonnes of freight, a 4% increase, and launched Emirates Courier Express, a global door-to-door express service. Three new Boeing 777 freighters were added to expand cargo operations.

The airline also strengthened brand visibility through sports sponsorships, partnering with FC Bayern Munich, Real Madrid Basketball, Olympique Lyonnais, and the ATP Tour through multi-year agreements.

dnata achieved record H1 revenue of AED11.7 billion (US$3.2 billion), up 13% year-on-year, with profit before tax at AED843 million (US$230 million), up 17%, and profit after tax at AED697 million (US$190 million), up 22%.

The company expanded airport services, catering, retail, and travel operations across international markets. Notable investments included 800 new ground support equipment units valued at US$110 million, the launch of its hospitality brand marhaba in the UK, and strategic corporate partnerships to strengthen dnata Travel.

The Emirates Group continued investing in sustainability initiatives, including Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) adoption at 37 airports and joining the Aviation Circularity Consortium (ACC) to promote a circular economy in aviation. Retail expansions, luxurious First Class facilities at Dubai Airport, and enhanced digital platforms for customer services underscored the Group’s commitment to innovation and customer experience.

With growing passenger demand, expanding cargo operations, and strategic investments in fleet, infrastructure, and services, the Emirates Group expects continued growth for the remainder of 2025-26. Sheikh Ahmed highlighted that the Group’s strong financial foundation allows for scaling proven business models while supporting Dubai’s position as a global hub for travel, tourism, and business.