Emirates Group reported a Dhs 4.1 billion profit before tax for the first half of 2026-27, supported by continued travel demand, strong cargo performance and a Dhs 54.1 billion cash position.
Emirates Group maintains strong financial position
The Dubai-based aviation group recorded revenue of Dhs 66.2 billion for the six months ending 30 September 2026, alongside a profit after tax of Dhs 3.6 billion.
Its EBITDA stood at Dhs 12.5 billion, while cash reserves reached Dhs 54.1 billion at the end of September.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, said: “It has been a demanding six months, and once again our business model and our people stood up to the test. Against unprecedented regional challenges and high fuel prices, the Group has delivered a profit before tax of Dhs 4.1 billion (US$ 1.1 billion). Customer demand held firm and our cargo operations made a strong contribution, keeping revenue and cash levels healthy even as global jet fuel prices doubled against the same period last year, impacting our costs and profitability.”
Emirates serves 21.8 million passengers
Emirates carried 21.8 million passengers between April and September 2026, while its network covered 150 airports across 78 countries and territories by the end of the reporting period.
The airline continued investing in its fleet, receiving nine new Airbus A350 aircraft and completing cabin refurbishments on 12 aircraft, including nine A380s and three Boeing 777s.
Its Starlink installation programme also expanded, with 57 aircraft equipped with high-speed onboard Wi-Fi by 30 September.
New cabin features included the U-dream headrest in Economy Class and electronically controlled privacy dividers in Premium Economy.
The airline’s wider cabin refurbishment programme represents a planned investment of more than US$7 billion.
Emirates SkyCargo records 52% revenue growth
Cargo operations were a key contributor to the Group’s performance.
Emirates SkyCargo transported 1.2 million tonnes of cargo during the first half of the financial year, with cargo revenue increasing by 52%.
The division received five new Boeing 777 freighters and deployed its first passenger-to-freighter converted aircraft. It also expanded its freighter network to Almaty and Zhengzhou.
dnata expands global operations and Dubai investments
dnata recorded revenue of Dhs 11 billion during the first half of 2026-27, with its international operations supporting its global business.
The company continued expanding its infrastructure, including commissioning a new Dhs 100 million logistics facility in Dubai South and opening an integrated command centre for its Dubai cargo operations.
It also committed Dhs 8 million to expand The Fort – Lisaili, Arabian Adventures’ desert tourism destination.
Internationally, dnata secured a seven-year ground handling licence at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and announced a new cargo facility investment at Western Sydney International Airport.
Emirates Group continues investing in its future
The Group maintained its investment programme across aircraft, infrastructure, technology and customer services.
Emirates also extended its sponsorship agreements with Arsenal Football Club until 2033 and Real Madrid until 2031.
Its community initiatives included programmes supporting young travellers with autism, youth technology projects and food assistance for children in South Africa.
Sheikh Ahmed said: “We enter the second half of our 2026-27 financial year with measured optimism. While keeping a close watch on costs and geopolitical developments, we remain focused on delivering what Emirates and dnata are known for – safety, quality, and customer satisfaction. We’ve weathered challenges before, and with our strong cash position and solid foundation built up over the years, the Group is well-placed to navigate the headwinds of volatility and high fuel prices.”
