Emirates Group Achieves Record Profit of AED 24.4 Billion in 2025-26

Dubai: The Emirates Group has reported a record profit for the financial year 2025-26, achieving significant milestones in revenue and cash reserves, despite facing challenges in the final month of its fiscal year. The annual report highlights Emirates as the world’s most profitable airline during this period.

Financial Performance Overview

The Emirates Group’s financial results for the year ending March 31, 2026, showcase remarkable growth:

• Profit Before Tax (PBT): AED 24.4 billion, marking a 7% increase from the previous year, with a PBT margin of 16.2%.
• Revenue: AED 150.5 billion, up 3% compared to last year’s figures.
• Cash Assets: AED 59.6 billion, reflecting a 12% rise from the prior year.
• EBITDA: AED 41.1 billion, indicating robust operating profitability.

Emirates Airline Highlights

For Emirates airline specifically, the financial performance is equally impressive:

• Profit Before Tax (PBT): AED 22.8 billion, a 7% increase from the previous year, with a PBT margin of 17.4%.
• Revenue: AED 130.9 billion, representing a 2% growth year-on-year.
• Cash Assets: AED 54.9 billion, a 10% increase compared to March 31, 2025.

dnata’s Growth

dnata, the ground handling and travel services division, also reported strong growth:

• Profit Before Tax (PBT): AED 1.6 billion, a 2% increase from last year, with a PBT margin of 6.8%.
• Revenue: AED 23.6 billion, up 12%.
• Cash Assets: AED 4.7 billion, reflecting a 28% increase.

The Group declared a dividend of AED 3.5 billion to the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD), its owner.

Tax Implications and Profit After Tax

The corporate tax rate for the Emirates Group increased from 9% to 15% this year, following the implementation of Pillar Two tax rules in the UAE. After accounting for this tax charge, the Group’s profit after tax stands at AED 21.0 billion (approximately USD 5.7 billion), which is a 3% increase from the previous fiscal year.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates airline and Group, emphasized the resilience of the Emirates Group’s business model. He noted that the results reflect the organization’s commitment to safety, excellence, innovation, and partnerships.

Challenges and Responses

Sheikh Ahmed highlighted that the first 11 months of the financial year were marked by strong demand for products and services, which drove revenue growth. However, the situation changed dramatically on February 28, when military activities disrupted global commercial air traffic in the Gulf region, including the UAE. In response, Emirates and dnata mobilized quickly to support employees and customers, protect assets, and ensure business continuity.

The Chairman expressed gratitude for being based in Dubai, where infrastructure investments and a cohesive aviation ecosystem allowed for the swift establishment of safe corridors for commercial flights. Operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB) have gradually been restored, although passenger capacity remains below pre-disruption levels. Cargo operations have increased to facilitate the movement of essential goods.

Commitment to Employees and Community

Sheikh Ahmed acknowledged the critical role of employees in the Group’s success, stating that their agility in a dynamic environment has been instrumental. He expressed appreciation for the leadership of HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his sons, as well as the collaboration of ecosystem partners that support global aviation.

In the 2025-26 fiscal year, the Emirates Group invested AED 17.9 billion (USD 4.9 billion) in new aircraft, facilities, equipment, and technology to bolster its growth strategy. The total workforce increased by 8% to 130,919 employees, with the UAE national workforce surpassing 4,000, demonstrating the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining local talent.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead to 2026-27, Sheikh Ahmed noted that military activities between the US, Israel, and Iran are currently paused under a ceasefire agreement. He expressed hope for a resolution to the hostilities and a return to market stability. However, he emphasized that the Emirates Group is proactively addressing potential challenges.

From a fuel perspective, Emirates is well-hedged until 2028-29 and has secured necessary volumes to support current operations and scaling efforts. The Group’s diverse business streams and years of investment provide resilience and agility to navigate near-term challenges.

Sheikh Ahmed reiterated that the Emirates Group enters 2026-27 with strong cash reserves, allowing for continued investment in aircraft deliveries, retrofit programs, and new facilities. The focus remains on delivering industry-leading products and customer experiences while attracting top talent and providing value to the communities served.

The Emirates Group’s business model remains robust, and Dubai’s strategic position in global commerce and travel continues to be a significant advantage.

As reported by www.emirates247.com.

Explore the latest digital editions of FAME Delivered in the Magazine section: https://famedelivered.com/magazine/

Published on 2026-05-07 10:14:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk