Emirates Maintains Top Spot as World’s Most Profitable Airline with Record-Breaking Half-Year Gain in 2025-26

Emirates Group has reported its most profitable half-year performance to date for the 2025-26 financial year, posting a profit before tax of AED 12.2 billion (US$ 3.3 billion). This marks an impressive 17% increase from the same period last year, solidifying the Group’s reputation as a leading player in the global travel industry. The Emirates airline itself also recorded a strong profit, maintaining its status as the world’s most profitable airline, while dnata, its ground services and travel management arm, experienced significant growth.

This record-breaking performance reflects the continued resilience of the airline and travel sector, despite global challenges such as geopolitical uncertainties and fluctuating economic conditions. The Group’s robust performance was fueled by unwavering travel demand, with Emirates benefiting from customer preference for premium cabins and expanded network options across international markets.

Emirates: Soaring to New Heights with Record Profit and Expanding Services

Emirates, the flagship airline of the Group, reported a profit before tax of AED 11.4 billion (US$ 3.1 billion) for the first half of 2025-26, a 17% rise over the previous year. Revenue for the airline also grew by 6%, reaching AED 65.6 billion (US$ 17.9 billion), driven by strong travel demand and the airline’s expanding global footprint.

The airline’s impressive financial performance reflects a strong rebound in global travel demand, particularly in the premium travel segment. In response to this sustained growth, Emirates continued to enhance its network by launching new services to cities like Danang, Siem Reap, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou. By the end of September 2025, Emirates’ passenger and cargo network had expanded to 153 airports across 81 countries and territories.

One of the key drivers of this growth was the Emirates Premium Economy cabin, which has seen strong uptake. The cabin’s availability on new routes, including between Dubai and 61 cities, has further solidified Emirates’ appeal to discerning travelers.

During the first half of 2025-26, Emirates also received five new A350 aircraft, which have added Business Class and Premium Economy seats, as part of its ongoing fleet expansion. The airline’s investment in a US$ 5 billion retrofit programme also ensured that 23 aircraft received updated interiors, bringing the latest cabin products to more markets.

On the ground, Emirates launched the “Emirates First” lounge at Dubai International Airport, offering First Class customers and Platinum Skywards members an exclusive, luxurious check-in experience. Additionally, the airline continued to enhance its global brand presence, securing multi-year sponsorship deals with top sports teams, including FC Bayern Munich and Real Madrid Basketball.

dnata’s Strong Growth Reflects Expanding Operations and New Partnerships

Emirates Group’s success was further amplified by dnata, its travel services and ground operations subsidiary, which reported a profit before tax of AED 843 million (US$ 230 million), up 17% from the previous year. dnata’s strong performance was driven by growing demand across its airport services, catering and retail, and travel services divisions.

dnata’s revenue reached a record AED 11.7 billion (US$ 3.2 billion), up 13% compared to the same period in 2024. This was bolstered by several key contract wins, new partnerships, and strategic investments to enhance its operational capacity and sustainability efforts. dnata’s expansion of its ground support equipment (GSE) by investing US$ 110 million in new units is just one example of how the company is positioning itself for future growth.

Furthermore, dnata’s entry into new markets, such as its marhaba airport hospitality brand in the United Kingdom, and a minority stake in WonderMiles, an advanced travel platform, illustrates the company’s commitment to diversifying its business and expanding its global reach.

A Look Ahead: Emirates and dnata Continue to Invest in Future Growth

Looking ahead, the Emirates Group remains optimistic about continued growth in the travel sector. HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, noted that while geopolitical events and economic concerns in some markets remain a challenge, the global travel appetite continues to show resilience. The introduction of new A350 aircraft and new facilities for dnata are expected to further support the Group’s expansion in the second half of the year.

The company is also focusing on sustainability, with both Emirates and dnata making significant strides in environmental initiatives, including the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and joining global networks committed to aviation decarbonization.

With the Group’s cash reserves reaching AED 56 billion (US$ 15.2 billion) as of September 2025, the Emirates Group is well-positioned to continue making investments in its fleet, operations, and employee growth, ensuring that it remains a leader in the competitive global travel market.

Emirates Group Remains a Pillar of Success in the Travel Industry

Emirates Group’s record half-year profit is a testament to its ability to adapt, innovate, and lead in an ever-evolving global travel landscape. The strong financial performance in the first half of 2025-26 positions both Emirates and dnata for continued success as they cater to the growing demand for air travel, premium services, and sustainable business practices. With its expanding network, fleet, and operational capabilities, the Emirates Group is well on track to maintain its position as one of the most profitable entities in the global travel industry.

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