Dubai, 9 May 2026: Emirates Group financial results 2026 have set new industry benchmarks, with the company reporting its highest-ever profit, revenue, and cash asset levels for the financial year ended March 31, 2026.
Despite operational disruptions during the final month of the financial year due to regional instability in the Gulf, The Emirates Group delivered record financial and operational performance across both Emirates airline and dnata.
Emirates Group Financial Results 2026 Reach Record Profit Levels
The Emirates Group financial results 2026 showed a record profit before tax of AED 24.4 billion (US$ 6.6 billion), representing a 7% year-on-year increase.
Group revenue rose 3% to AED 150.5 billion (US$ 41 billion), while cash assets increased 12% to a record AED 59.6 billion (US$ 16.2 billion).
EBITDA also reached a strong AED 41.1 billion (US$ 11.2 billion), reflecting sustained travel demand and operational resilience.
Emirates Retains Position as World’s Most Profitable Airline
Emirates remained the world’s most profitable airline under the Emirates Group financial results 2026 announcement.
The airline posted a record pre-tax profit of AED 22.8 billion (US$ 6.2 billion), up 7% compared to the previous year.
Revenue grew 2% to AED 130.9 billion (US$ 35.7 billion), while cash assets climbed to AED 54.9 billion (US$ 15 billion).
dnata Also Delivers Record Financial Performance
dnata achieved record operational and financial growth during the financial year.
dnata reported:
- AED 1.6 billion pre-tax profit
- 2% profit growth year-on-year
- 12% increase in revenue to AED 23.6 billion
The company’s international operations contributed 77% of total revenue, highlighting the growing strength of its global business network.
Dividend Declared Amid Strong Cash Position
Following the strong Emirates Group financial results 2026, the Group declared a dividend of AED 3.5 billion (US$ 1 billion) to its owner, the Investment Corporation of Dubai.
Even after the UAE corporate tax rate increased from 9% to 15% under Pillar Two tax rules, the Group posted a post-tax profit of AED 21 billion (US$ 5.7 billion).
Sheikh Ahmed Highlights Resilience and Growth
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum described the results as evidence of the Group’s strong and resilient business model.
He stated that sustained investments in products, technology, people, partnerships, and brand development continued to support strong demand during most of the financial year.
He also acknowledged the regional disruptions caused by military activity in the Gulf from February 2026 onward, noting that Emirates and dnata rapidly mobilised to support customers and maintain operations.
Massive Investments Continue Across Fleet and Infrastructure
The Emirates Group financial results 2026 also highlighted major investments aimed at long-term growth.
During the year, the Group invested AED 17.9 billion (US$ 4.9 billion) in:
- Aircraft acquisitions
- Infrastructure development
- Technology upgrades
- Operational equipment
The total workforce also increased 8% to 130,919 employees globally.
Emirates Expands Network and Aircraft Fleet
Emirates expanded its network to 152 destinations across 80 countries during the financial year.
New routes launched included:
- Da Nang
- Hangzhou
- Siem Reap
- Shenzhen
The airline also strengthened connectivity through 32 codeshare agreements and 117 interline partnerships.
Fleet Modernisation and Passenger Experience Improvements
Under the Emirates Group financial results 2026, the airline confirmed major fleet investments.
Emirates took delivery of 15 Airbus A350 aircraft and expanded its A350 fleet to 19 aircraft operating to 21 destinations.
At the 2025 Dubai Airshow, Emirates announced fleet investments worth US$ 41.4 billion, including:
- 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft
- 8 additional Airbus A350-900 aircraft
The airline also accelerated its US$ 5 billion retrofit programme, refurbishing 91 aircraft with upgraded cabins and Premium Economy seating.
Cargo and Technology Investments Grow
Emirates SkyCargo transported 2.4 million tonnes of cargo during the year, generating AED 16.2 billion in revenue.
Meanwhile, the airline expanded Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi installations across its fleet, with 21 aircraft already equipped by year-end.
Strong Outlook for 2026-27
Looking ahead, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum stated that the Group enters 2026-27 with strong cash reserves and stable business fundamentals.
He reaffirmed Dubai’s continued importance as a global hub for trade, commerce, and travel while emphasising the Group’s ambition to remain a world-leading aviation and travel company.
Conclusion
The Emirates Group financial results 2026 underline the company’s exceptional operational resilience, financial strength, and long-term growth strategy despite regional and global challenges.
Through continued investments in fleet modernisation, customer experience, global connectivity, and technology, the Group remains positioned as one of the strongest players in the global aviation industry.
As international travel demand continues to recover and evolve, Emirates Group’s performance highlights the growing importance of operational flexibility, strategic investment, and global connectivity in maintaining industry leadership. The company’s strong cash position, expanding fleet, and technology-driven customer experience initiatives are expected to support continued growth while reinforcing Dubai’s role as a major global aviation and tourism hub.