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 AED 12.2 billion (US$ 3.3 billion), marking the fourth consecutive year of record half-year profitability. After accounting for income tax, the Group’s profit after tax reached AED 10.6 billion (US$ 2.9 billion), up 13% compared to the same period last year. Revenue for the first six months rose to AED 75.4 billion (US$ 20.6 billion), a 4% increase from the previous year, while EBITDA grew 3% to AED 21.1 billion (US$ 5.7 billion). The Group ended the period with a record cash position of AED 56.0 billion (US$ 15.2 billion), supporting new aircraft deliveries, debt obligations, and dividend payments.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, highlighted that the record performance reflects strong customer demand, growing preference for the Group’s products and services, and the company’s ongoing investments in innovation, technology, and employee development. He added that global air transport demand remains resilient despite geopolitical and economic challenges, with further growth anticipated as new aircraft join the fleet and dnata’s facilities expand.
Emirates Airline continued to expand its network and services during the first half of 2025-26. New flights were launched to Danang, Siem Reap, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou, while additional weekly services strengthened connectivity to cities such as Antananarivo, Johannesburg, Muscat, Rome, Riyadh, and Taipei. Codeshare agreements with Air Seychelles, Condor, and Aurigny further enhanced passenger options. Emirates received five new A350 aircraft and completed the retrofit of 23 planes with refreshed interiors, expanding Premium Economy availability to 61 cities. The airline also unveiled “Emirates First” at Dubai Airport, offering a luxurious check-in experience for First Class passengers and Platinum Skywards members. Environmental initiatives, including the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at 37 airports, were also advanced.
During this period, Emirates reinforced its global brand presence through high-profile sports sponsorships, including partnerships with FC Bayern Munchen, Real Madrid Basketball, Investec Champions Cup, and the ATP Tour, while extending its shirt sponsorship with Olympique Lyonnais until 2030. Overall passenger traffic rose 4% to 27.8 million, with capacity up 5% and an average passenger seat factor of 79.5%. Emirates SkyCargo transported 1.25 million tonnes, supported by three new Boeing 777 freighters and the launch of Emirates Courier Express for door-to-door express shipping.
dnata, Emirates Group’s services arm, also recorded strong growth in the first half of 2025-26. Revenue reached AED 11.7 billion (US$ 3.2 billion), a 13% increase from last year, while profit before tax rose 17% to AED 843 million (US$ 230 million) and profit after tax grew 22% to AED 697 million (US$ 190 million). dnata expanded its operations with new contracts and enhanced capabilities across cargo, ground handling, catering, retail, and travel services. Investments included 800 new ground support equipment units valued at US$ 110 million and the launch of its UK airport hospitality brand, marhaba, as well as strategic investments in corporate travel solutions. dnata also entered its first major sports sponsorship with Dubai Basketball, reinforcing brand visibility.
The Group’s robust performance reflects Emirates and dnata’s ability to capitalize on global travel demand, strengthen operational capabilities, and maintain resilience amid market challenges. With record profits, expanding networks, and ongoing investment in services, the Emirates Group solidifies its position as the world’s most profitable airline and integrated aviation services provider for the first half of 2025-26.
