Emirates Group Reports Record AED 12.2 Billion Half-Year Profit, Strengthening Global Leadership

Emirates Group Reports Record AED 12.2 Billion Half-Year Profit, Strengthening Global Leadership

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 10, 2025

The Emirates Group has announced its strongest-ever half-year financial results, posting a record profit before tax of AED 12.2 billion (USD 3.3 billion) for the first six months of FY2025–26, marking a 17% increase year-on-year. This milestone also represents the Group’s fourth consecutive period of record profitability, reaffirming its position as the world’s most profitable airline group.

The Group’s profit after tax stood at AED 10.6 billion (USD 2.9 billion), up 13% from last year, while revenues rose 4% to AED 75.4 billion (USD 20.6 billion). Supported by strong passenger demand and expanding operations, Emirates Group maintained a healthy EBITDA of AED 21.1 billion (USD 5.7 billion).

As of September 30, 2025, the Group’s cash position reached a record AED 56 billion (USD 15.2 billion), ensuring financial flexibility for new aircraft deliveries, debt servicing, and future investments.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, said:

“The Group has once again delivered an outstanding performance, surpassing our half-year results of last year to achieve a new record profit for H1 2025–26. Emirates maintains its position as the world’s most profitable airline for this half-year reporting period.”

He added that the success reflects “unflagging demand and growing customer preference for Emirates’ product and service excellence,” supporting ongoing investments in innovation, technology, and sustainability.

Airline Performance

Emirates Airline delivered a record half-year profit before tax of AED 11.4 billion (USD 3.1 billion), up 17% year-on-year, with revenues reaching AED 65.6 billion (USD 17.9 billion). The growth was fueled by strong travel demand, particularly for premium cabins, and new route expansions.

Between April and September 2025, Emirates launched new services to Danang, Siem Reap, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou, expanding its network to 153 destinations across 81 countries. The airline also added 28 new weekly flights to key routes, enhancing global connectivity.

Fleet expansion continued with the delivery of five new A350 aircraft and 23 aircraft retrofits under a USD 5 billion modernisation programme. Emirates Premium Economy, now available on 61 routes, remained a key contributor to revenue growth.

The airline also unveiled ‘Emirates First’, an exclusive check-in experience for First Class passengers and Platinum Skywards members at Dubai Airport, and expanded its global retail store presence in cities like Accra, Bangkok, Geneva, Jakarta, Mauritius, Osaka, Seoul, and Singapore.

Sustainability remained central, with Emirates uplifting Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at 37 airports and joining the Aviation Circularity Consortium to promote greener practices.

Passenger traffic rose 4% to 27.8 million, while Emirates SkyCargo transported 1.25 million tonnes of freight, up 4% year-on-year. The airline also launched Courier Express, a new express delivery service for businesses.

dnata Performance

dnata reported its highest-ever half-year revenue of AED 11.7 billion (USD 3.2 billion), up 13% year-on-year. Profit before tax rose 17% to AED 843 million (USD 230 million), while profit after tax reached AED 697 million (USD 190 million).

Airport operations contributed AED 5.5 billion (USD 1.5 billion), a 15% rise supported by expanded services in Italy, Australia, the UK, and the UAE. The company handled 450,903 aircraft turns, up 15%, and cargo volumes grew 3% to 1.59 million tonnes.

dnata’s catering and retail division generated AED 4.1 billion (USD 1.1 billion) in revenue, up 11%, while its travel division reached AED 2 billion (USD 538 million) in revenue, with a total transaction value of AED 5 billion (USD 1.4 billion).

The company invested USD 110 million in new ground support equipment and launched its marhaba hospitality brand in the UK. dnata also acquired a minority stake in WonderMiles, a next-generation booking platform, and entered its first major sports sponsorship with Dubai Basketball.

Concluding on a strong note, Sheikh Ahmed said,

“Global demand for air transport remains buoyant despite geopolitical and economic pressures. Emirates and dnata are positioned for continued growth, with new A350 aircraft joining the fleet and expanded facilities supporting dnata’s international operations.”

With record-breaking results and a continued focus on excellence, innovation, and sustainability, the Emirates Group remains a symbol of resilience and leadership in the global aviation industry.


TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

As Japan gears up for its much-awaited cherry blossom season, Tobu Tower Skytree Co., Ltd. has announced a special spring programme titled “THE Sakura SKYTREE – Going to Meet the Cherry Blossoms Above the Clouds” at TOKYO SKYTREE. The limited-period experience will run from February 26 to April 14, 2026, offering visitors a fresh way to enjoy sakura from 350 metres above ground.

Designed as an alternative to traditional park hanami, the event brings cherry blossom viewing into an urban, elevated setting. Located on the Tembo Deck at Floors 350 and 340, the experience blends sakura-inspired installations with wide, uninterrupted views of Tokyo, allowing visitors to enjoy spring scenery from above the city skyline.

Built around the theme “Sky × Sakura,” the Tembo Deck will be transformed with cherry blossom décor and Japanese-style photo installations. The setting reflects the fleeting beauty of sakura while creating striking visual moments for visitors. With the Tokyo skyline as a backdrop, the space offers a modern interpretation of spring that combines tradition with a sense of scale and spectacle.

For evening visitors, a key attraction will be the seasonal showcase at the SKYTREE ROUND THEATER® on Floor 350. The observatory’s large windows will turn into a panoramic screen for a three-minute visual presentation capturing the delicate and short-lived nature of cherry blossoms. Using 24 projectors and surround sound from 13 speakers, the experience adds a cinematic layer to hanami, bringing together culture, technology, and storytelling.

Adding to the seasonal feel, the SKYTREE CAFE on Floor 350 will launch a limited-edition cherry blossom-themed menu. The offerings will include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with spring-inspired sweets. Highlights include donuts in “Sakura Mochi” and “Sakura Sky Vanilla” flavours, made as 100% plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free options. The menu is designed to be visually appealing and easy to share, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The spring theme will also extend to the W1SH RIBBON monument on the Tembo Deck, where limited-edition pink ribbons will be available during the event period. Visitors can tie their wishes onto the softly lit pink installation, reflecting themes of renewal and fresh beginnings associated with the season. The monument lighting will also shift to pink to match the overall décor.

On selected evenings, TOKYO SKYTREE itself will light up in special spring illumination called “Sakura SKY (Sakura-Sora).” Inspired by cherry blossoms set against a spring sky, gentle pink beams will represent petals floating in the wind, turning the tower into a seasonal highlight visible across the city.

With immersive décor, visual storytelling, seasonal food, and special lighting, “THE Sakura SKYTREE” positions TOKYO SKYTREE as a standout attraction during spring. By presenting the cherry blossom season from 350 metres above ground, the event offers visitors an experience that feels modern, memorable, and uniquely Tokyo.


Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

TIYA, a Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant, has announced the appointment of Chef Bobby as its new Sous Chef. The move underlines the restaurant’s continued focus on quality, innovation, and refined modern Indian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.

In his new role, Chef Bobby will oversee day-to-day kitchen operations at TIYA. His responsibilities include ensuring smooth service, refined plating presentation, well-balanced flavours, and consistent portion control. Through his leadership, the restaurant aims to further strengthen its position as a premium modern Indian dining destination known for creativity, precision, and memorable guest experiences.

Before joining TIYA, Chef Bobby worked as Sous Chef at Madras Group Inc., located at 1177 W El Camino Real, Sunnyvale. There, he supported the Executive Chef in running high-performing kitchen operations. His role included supervising and training culinary teams, maintaining HACCP and ServSafe food safety standards, handling inventory and supplier coordination, and contributing to cost control and menu innovation. His involvement in recipe development and tasting menu execution played a key role in maintaining high dining standards.

Earlier in his career, Chef Bobby gained valuable experience as a Demi Chef de Partie at The Quorum, Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road, and as a Commi at Hotel Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar. He began his professional journey at Aamod Resorts, Kandaghat, District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, where he built a strong foundation in kitchen operations and hospitality discipline.

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Bobby said, “Joining TIYA, a Michelin Guide restaurant, as Sous Chef is an exciting milestone in my culinary journey. The brand’s vision of redefining modern Indian cuisine resonates deeply with my passion for innovation and excellence. I look forward to contributing to TIYA’s continued growth and delivering memorable dining experiences to our guests.”

With experience across well-known hospitality brands in both India and the United States, Chef Bobby’s appointment marks a meaningful step forward for TIYA as it continues to raise the bar for modern Indian fine dining in San Francisco.


Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

By Hariharan U

Published on February 24, 2026

As the holy month of Ramadan begins, Novotel Cairo Airport welcomes guests to experience the season in an atmosphere defined by serenity, reflection, and heartfelt hospitality. Designed for both Cairo residents seeking a peaceful retreat within the city and travellers exploring Egypt’s capital, the hotel offers a setting where the spirit of togetherness takes centre stage.

Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport focuses on creating meaningful moments. Guests can slow down, reconnect, and embrace the traditions of the holy month while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing stay. The property’s dining venues present thoughtfully curated Iftar and Sohour experiences, blending traditional Ramadan flavours with contemporary touches. Each meal is crafted to bring families, friends, couples, and colleagues together around the table in celebration.

For corporate guests, the hotel provides fully equipped banquet rooms and dedicated facilities suited for Iftars, Sohour gatherings, and Ramadan celebrations. The spaces are designed to encourage connection and appreciation, offering organisations a welcoming environment to host teams and partners during the blessed month.

A highlight of the season is the exclusive Ramadan dessert display, available throughout the day. Guests can indulge in a carefully selected assortment of oriental pastries, featuring both classic favourites and delicately crafted treats that reflect the flavours of Ramadan. Whether enjoyed on-site or taken home to share, the sweet offerings add a festive touch to the experience.

More than a destination to stay or dine, Novotel Cairo Airport positions itself as a place where Cairo’s Ramadan evenings come alive with warmth and community spirit. It is a space to unwind after a long day of fasting, reflect on the blessings of the season, and create lasting memories.

Part of the global Accor portfolio, Novotel operates over 590 hotels across more than 65 countries and participates in the ALL – Accor Live Limitless lifestyle loyalty programme, offering members access to rewards and exclusive experiences worldwide.

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