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

Dubai: The Emirates Group has reported a record profit of AED 24.4 billion for the financial year ending March 31, 2026, solidifying its position as the world’s most profitable airline. This achievement comes despite facing significant challenges in the final month of the financial year, as detailed in the Group’s recently released annual report.

Financial Performance Overview

The Emirates Group’s financial highlights for the year include:

• A record profit before tax (PBT) of AED 24.4 billion, marking a 7% increase from the previous year, with a PBT margin of 16.2%.
• Total revenue reached AED 150.5 billion, up 3% compared to the prior year.
• Cash assets also hit a record level of AED 59.6 billion, reflecting a 12% increase.
• Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) stood at AED 41.1 billion, showcasing robust operating profitability.

For Emirates specifically, the reported figures are equally impressive:

• A PBT of AED 22.8 billion, up 7% year-on-year, with a PBT margin of 17.4%.
• Revenue of AED 130.9 billion, representing a 2% increase.
• Cash assets reached AED 54.9 billion, a 10% rise compared to March 31, 2025.

Dnata, the Group’s ground handling and catering division, also posted strong results:

• A PBT of AED 1.6 billion, up 2% from the previous year, with a PBT margin of 6.8%.
• Revenue of AED 23.6 billion, an increase of 12%.
• Cash assets rose to AED 4.7 billion, up by 28%.

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

Tax Implications and Profit After Tax

The Emirates Group faced an increase in the UAE corporate tax rate from 9% to 15% due to the implementation of Pillar Two tax rules. After accounting for this tax charge, the Group’s profit after tax amounted to AED 21.0 billion (approximately US$ 5.7 billion), reflecting a 3% increase from the previous financial 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 first eleven months of the financial year showed strong demand for their products and services, which contributed to revenue growth and healthy margins.

Challenges and Operational Resilience

The report highlighted that military activity in the Gulf region on February 28 significantly disrupted global commercial air traffic, including operations in the UAE. In response, Emirates and dnata quickly mobilized resources to support affected customers and ensure business continuity.

Sheikh Ahmed stated that the Group’s operational base in Dubai, bolstered by years of infrastructure investment, allowed for the swift establishment of safe corridors for commercial flights. Although passenger capacity remains below pre-disruption levels, cargo operations have increased to facilitate the movement of essential goods.

Workforce Growth and Investment in Future Capabilities

In the 2025-26 financial year, the Emirates Group invested AED 17.9 billion (US$ 4.9 billion) in new aircraft, facilities, and technology to support its growth objectives. The total workforce increased by 8% to 130,919 employees, with a notable rise in the UAE national workforce, surpassing 4,000, reflecting the success of initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining local talent.

Looking ahead to the 2026-27 financial year, Sheikh Ahmed expressed cautious optimism regarding geopolitical stability in the region. He noted that military activities between the US, Israel, and Iran are currently paused under a ceasefire agreement, and the Group is preparing for a return to market stability.

Future Outlook and Strategic Focus

Sheikh Ahmed highlighted that Emirates is well-hedged for fuel costs until 2028-29 and has secured necessary volumes to support current operations. The Group’s diverse business streams and years of investment position it to navigate any near-term challenges effectively.

The Emirates Group enters the new financial year with strong cash reserves, which will allow for continued investment in aircraft deliveries, retrofitting programs, and new facilities. The focus remains on providing industry-leading products and customer experiences while attracting top talent and delivering value to the communities served.

Sheikh Ahmed reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to maintaining its strong fundamentals and business model, emphasizing Dubai’s strategic role in global commerce, trade, and travel.

Source: www.emirates247.com

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Published on 2026-05-07 10:14:00 • By the Editorial Desk