Dubai: Dubai’s Emirates Group, the Middle East’s largest airline, announced a notable increase in its half-year profits, reaching 10.6 billion dirhams ($2.9 billion), marking a 13 percent rise compared to the previous year.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the group achieved record profits before corporate tax, which was introduced in 2023, totaling $3.3 billion for the first half of the 2025-2026 fiscal year that begins in April. This accomplishment signifies the fourth consecutive year of record profitability for the world’s largest long-haul carrier.
Emirates Group attributes its steady performance to sustained global demand for air transport and travel services, despite geopolitical events and economic challenges in certain markets. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of Emirates, expressed optimism, stating that the group anticipates continued demand resilience for the remainder of the 2025-26 fiscal year, with plans to expand capacity to further boost revenues.
The group’s revenues rose to $20.6 billion, a four percent increase from $19.3 billion last year. However, regional tensions, including the conflict in Gaza and the brief 12-day war between Israel and Iran, caused disruptions to flights operated by several Gulf carriers. Flights faced temporary suspensions during separate attacks by Iran and Israel on Qatar in June and September.
Despite these challenges, Emirates reported a profit after tax of $2.7 billion, reflecting a 13 percent increase from the previous year.