Emirates Group announces half-year profit for 2026-27, despite regional conflict and high fuel costs

The Emirates Group announced its half-year financial results, posting a profit before tax of AED 4.1 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) for the first six months of 2026-27, a remarkable performance against the disruption and high fuel prices caused by the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region.

Key Financial Highlights
- Emirates Group reported a profit before tax of AED 4.1 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) despite regional conflict and high fuel costs.
- Profit after tax stood at AED 3.6 billion (US$ 1.0 billion), down 66% year-on-year.
- Revenue reached AED 66.2 billion (US$ 18 billion), down 12%.
- EBITDA was AED 12.5 billion (US$ 3.4 billion), down 41%.
- Group cash position stood at AED 54.1 billion (US$ 14.7 billion) as of 30 September 2026.

Chairman’s Outlook
- HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said the Group delivered a strong performance despite unprecedented regional challenges and soaring fuel prices.
- He expressed confidence in the Group’s ability to navigate ongoing volatility while continuing investments in fleet, products, and future growth.

Emirates Airline Performance
Operational Recovery
- Emirates restored 91% of its pre-disruption network by September 2026.
- Operated services to 150 airports across 78 countries and territories.
- Launched customer-friendly initiatives including comprehensive travel cover, flexible ticket changes, and refund options.

Fleet and Product Investments
- Added 9 Airbus A350s and completed refurbishment of 12 aircraft.
- Expanded Premium Economy offerings and continued its US$ 7 billion fleet retrofit programme.
- Installed Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi on 57 aircraft.

Infrastructure Growth
- Began construction of a US$ 5.1 billion MRO facility at Al Maktoum International Airport.
- Customer Experience Enhancements
- Introduced the new U-dream Economy Class headrest.
- Launched electronically controlled privacy dividers in Premium Economy.
- Opened new-generation lounges in Munich, Frankfurt, and Manchester.

Passenger and Cargo Performance
- Carried 21.8 million passengers, down 22%.
- Passenger Seat Factor stood at 72%.
- Emirates SkyCargo transported 1.2 million tonnes of cargo.
- Cargo revenue increased 52%, driven by strong airfreight demand.

Financial Performance
- Profit before tax: AED 3.7 billion (US$ 1.0 billion).
- Profit after tax: AED 3.3 billion (US$ 903 million).
- Revenue: AED 56.9 billion (US$ 15.5 billion).
- EBITDA: AED 11.5 billion (US$ 3.1 billion).

dnata Performance
Business Resilience
- International operations helped offset reduced travel and airline traffic in the Gulf region.
- Secured major new contracts and a seven-year ground handling licence at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

Strategic Investments
- Opened a new cargo command centre in Dubai.
- Announced investments in cargo, catering, logistics, and tourism infrastructure across multiple markets.
- Continued automation and technology upgrades across operations.

Financial Results
- Revenue: AED 11.0 billion (US$ 3.0 billion), down 7%.
- Profit before tax: AED 410 million (US$ 112 million), down 51%.
- Profit after tax: AED 309 million (US$ 84 million), down 56%.
- EBITDA: AED 939 million (US$ 256 million), down 31%.

Operational Highlights
- Handled 414,012 aircraft turns.
- Processed 1.49 million tonnes of cargo.
- Flight catering and retail revenue increased 1% to AED 4.2 billion.
- Travel division revenue declined 31% following UK business divestments.