Despite the recent regional disruptions, Emirates still remains on top
The Dubai-based airline has retained its position as the world’s most profitable airline after posting record-breaking financial results for 2025-26. The airline announced a profit before tax of Dhs22.8 billion (US$6.2 billion), marking a 7 per cent increase on last year and the strongest financial performance in the airline industry during the reporting period. The wider Emirates Group – which includes aviation services company – also reported record results, with overall profits reaching Dhs24.4 billion (US$6.6 billion).
According to the newly released annual report, the airline carried 53.2 million passengers over the past financial year, while its global network expanded to 152 cities across 80 countries. New destinations added included Da Nang, Shenzhen, Hangzhou and Siem Reap.
The airline also continued investing heavily in its onboard experience, with more aircraft now featuring Premium Economy cabins as part of Emirates’ ongoing US$5 billion retrofit programme. So far, 91 aircraft have completed full cabin upgrades. Emirates president Tim Clark has also stated that the airline is working on en-suite bathrooms in first class.
Emirates has also started rolling out high-speed Starlink WiFi onboard, with 21 aircraft already fitted with the system by the end of March.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said the results reflected the “strength and resilience” of the Emirates business model despite disruption to air travel in the region earlier this year. The Group also confirmed major future expansion plans, including further aircraft investments announced during the Dubai Airshow 2025. Emirates currently has 367 aircraft on order, with deliveries scheduled through to 2038.
Meanwhile, the company’s workforce has grown to more than 130,000 employees globally as Emirates and dnata continue expanding operations.
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