Emirates Group posts record profit as Emirates retains title of World’s Most Profitable Airline

The Emirates Group reported record financial results for the 2025–26 fiscal year, achieving profit before tax of AED 24.4 billion (US$ 6.6 billion), up 7% year-on-year, on record revenues of AED 150.5 billion. The group also ended the year with record cash reserves of AED 59.6 billion despite significant disruption caused by regional military tensions late in the financial year.

Emirates airline remained the world’s most profitable airline, posting a record AED 22.8 billion pre-tax profit and AED 130.9 billion in revenue. Strong travel demand, premium cabin performance, and network expansion supported results, although the carrier said military activity in the Gulf region from late February disrupted operations and temporarily reduced passenger capacity.

During the year, Emirates expanded its network to 152 destinations, added new Airbus A350s, continued its major cabin retrofit programme, and announced further fleet investments, including additional Boeing 777X and A350 aircraft. The airline carried 53.2 million passengers and maintained strong profitability despite rising costs and operational challenges.

Ground handling and travel services subsidiary dnata also delivered record revenue and profit growth, supported by increased global travel activity and investments in airport operations, catering, cargo facilities, and technology.

Looking ahead, Emirates said it remains cautious due to geopolitical uncertainty and elevated fuel prices but highlighted strong cash reserves, extensive fuel hedging, and continued investment in fleet, infrastructure, and customer experience as key strengths entering 2026–27.