Emirates reported record profit and revenue, maintaining its position as the most profitable airline globally. Airline recorded profit before tax of Dh22.8 billion, up 7 per cent y-o-y. Revenues of Dh130.9 billion, up 2 per cent over last year, were recorded.

The airline reported the highest-ever level of cash assets at Dh54.9 billion, up 10 per cent higher compared to March 31, 2025.   

Revenue increased as Emirates deployed capacity to meet demand across markets, supported by network expansion and partnerships covering more than 1,700 cities beyond its network.

The airline carried 53.2 million passengers, while maintaining a passenger seat factor of 78.4 per cent. Passenger yields increased, reflecting sustained demand.

Fuel and employee costs remained the largest cost components. While total operating costs rose, the airline said lower fuel prices helped offset the increase in flying activity.

Total operating costs increased by 2 per cent from last financial year. However, the airline’s fuel expenses accounted for 29 per cent of operating costs compared to 31 per cent in 2024-25.

The airline’s fuel bill decreased slightly to Dh31.2 billion compared to Dh32.6 billion the previous year, as lower average fuel price (down 7 per cent) offset a higher uplift of 1 per cent from increased flying.

Fleet growth remained a key focus during the year.

Emirates took delivery of 15 Airbus A350 aircraft, bringing its A350 fleet to 19 aircraft serving 21 destinations. The total fleet stood at 277 aircraft, with an average age of 10.8 years.

The airline also continued its $5 billion retrofit programme, with 91 aircraft upgraded so far out of 215 planned.

At the Dubai Airshow, Emirates announced additional aircraft orders worth $41.4 billion at list prices with its total order book reaching 367 aircraft, extending deliveries into 2038.

Looking ahead, the Emirates Group said it will continue investing in aircraft, infrastructure and technology.

“The Emirates Group has navigated crises and disruptions before… each time, we have bounced back stronger,” said Sheikh Ahmed.

The Group said its business model and Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub remain unchanged as it enters the new financial year.

Sheikh Ahmed remains confidently optimistic. “The Emirates Group has navigated crises and disruptions before. Each time, we placed our focus on our customers and our people, and each time, we have bounced back stronge,” he added.

“Our people are a big part of our success, enabling us to respond with agility in a dynamic operating environment. I’d like to thank all our employees – they have truly exemplified the qualities that set the Emirates Group apart during testing times.”

dnata reported record revenue and profit growth, supported by increased global travel and cargo activity.

Revenue rose to Dh 23.6 billion, up 12 per cent y-o-y, with international operations contributing a significant share. dnata increased its profit before tax by 2 per cent to Dh1.6 billion in 2025-26. dnata’s international businesses account for 77 per cent of its revenue, up 2 per cent points from the previous year.

The business also reported strong operating cash flow and increased investments in infrastructure, including cargo and catering facilities.

The cargo division carried xx million tonnes, supported by expanded freighter capacity and network growth to 44 destinations.

Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC)

EKFC reported revenue growth driven by external contracts, serving over 100 airline customers and large-scale global events.

MMI / Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR)

MMI/ELR reported revenue of Dh2.9 billion, down 5 per cent due to market conditions and the rollback of the municipality tax waiver in the UAE.

During the year, ELR acquired the remaining 25 per cent stake in Air Ventures LLC, securing full ownership of the entity which operates airport retail and F&B outlets in the US.