Yalago is a leading global leisure accommodation wholesaler, offering a curated portfolio of hotel products with competitive rates and high-quality inventory to travel trade partners worldwide. Backed by strong supplier relationships and a focus on premium offerings, the business continues to outperform industry benchmarks. In 2025, Yalago delivered its strongest year on record, achieving 25% sales growth.

In his new role, Christian will be responsible for further enhancing Yalago’s international reach, with a strategic focus on expanding its hotel portfolio, strengthening partner relationships, and driving competitive pricing.

Based in Dubai, he will report to Sébastien Doussin, Senior Vice President – Global Travel Services & Destination Management, dnata Travel Group. His appointment is effective immediately.

Sébastien Doussin commented: “We are delighted to welcome Christian to dnata Travel Group at a pivotal point in our journey. His leadership will play a key role in strengthening Yalago’s global proposition and delivering high-quality solutions for our partners. With his strong international experience and commercial expertise, he is ideally positioned to lead this next phase of growth.”

Christian brings extensive international experience across the travel and hospitality industry, having held senior leadership and board-level roles in Europe, Latin America, and the United States. He has deep expertise in both B2B and B2C distribution, with a focus on building scalable, future-ready platforms.

Christian Kremers added: “I am excited to join dnata Travel Group at such an important time for the business. Yalago has strong foundations, a talented team and significant growth potential. I look forward to working with them to drive innovation, deliver value for our partners, and support the Group’s continued global expansion.”

In addition to leading Yalago, Christian will oversee the Group’s Central Ground Services (CGS) function. Based in Dubai, CGS supports global operations through a centralised model, delivering travel products across air, land and ancillary services to brands including dnata Travel (UAE) and Travelbag (UK).

For more information on Yalago, visit www.yalago.com or contact sales.support@yalago.com. To explore more on the dnata Travel Group and its portfolio of global brands, visit www.dnata.com/travel.

According to the latest dnata Travel booking data, the Maldives is the most popular international destination for UAE travellers this summer, accounting for around 20% of all overseas hotel bookings. The destination also dominates demand for all-inclusive holidays, representing 54% of dnata Travel’s all-inclusive bookings in 2026 so far. This trend highlights travellers' growing preference for convenience and value, with accommodation, dining and experiences secured before departure.

Against this backdrop, Secret Stays offers customers the opportunity to secure a luxury escape without knowing the name of the resort until after booking is confirmed. The concept reflects a growing preference for expert-curated holidays, while retaining an element of surprise.

dnata Travel has partnered with one of the Maldives' most established resorts to create an exclusive ‘Secret Stays Maldives’ offer for UAE residents.

“The Maldives is a destination where many travellers turn to our experts for guidance, simply because there are so many resorts to choose from,” said Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel.

“Secret Stays Maldives removes that complexity. Customers can book with confidence, knowing they are securing exceptional value at a quality resort, while enjoying the excitement of a surprise reveal.”

Already prompting a surge in customer enquiries since its 1 July launch, Secret Stays Maldives is available to book until 31 July 2026, for travel through to 30 September 2026. Travellers can secure a three-night luxury escape from AED 2,590 per adult, with the destination revealed upfront, while the resort itself remains under wraps until booking is complete.

The limited-time package, exclusive to dnata Travel customers, includes three nights' accommodation in a Beach Villa on Full Board, with return speedboat transfers, a complimentary floating breakfast, dedicated Island Host service, in-room check-in, and a selection of premium value-adds. Guests can also enjoy complimentary chef's treats, bicycle use, access to leisure facilities, a daily house reef boat trip (terms and conditions apply), and a 20% discount on selected spa treatments during the first two days of their stay, alongside additional exclusive benefits.

Secret Stays Maldives is available exclusively through dnata Travel for bookings from now until 31 July 2026, for travel until 30 September 2026. Travellers can book with dnata Travel’s experts via call or WhatsApp on 800 DNATA (36282), on social media @dnataTravel, email holidays@dnatatravel.com, or visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the UAE.

By unifying commercial cruise leadership across its destination management brands, dnata Travel Group aims to provide cruise partners with more coordinated support across multiple ports, simplified communication, greater consistency in delivery, and enhanced commercial value across the network.

In his expanded role, Materi will work closely with cruise operators and relevant authorities to help restore cruise itineraries in the Middle East, while optimising dnata’s cruise business worldwide.

Sebastien Doussin, Senior Vice President – Global Travel Services & Destination Management, dnata Travel Group, said: “Cruise tourism is entering an extraordinary phase of growth, even as parts of the industry continue to adapt to evolving global conditions.

“Cruise lines are increasingly looking for partners who can deliver consistency, scale, and exceptional service across multiple ports. By bringing our regional cruise teams under one commercial strategy, we’re strengthening our ability to support our partners end‑to‑end – from shore excursions to ground handling – and ensuring travellers enjoy a seamless experience at every destination.

“I wish Alvin every success in his new role and look forward to seeing him further strengthen our cruise business across the group.”

A seasoned leader with global cruise expertise

With more than 30 years of experience in the global cruise sector, Materi brings extensive operational expertise and long‑standing relationships with major cruise lines. He has played a key role within Destination Asia, where he supported the expansion of cruise operations across Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea, and led the launch of Expeditions by Destination Asia, serving one of the industry’s fastest‑growing segments.

Arabian Adventures and Destination Asia: enhanced focus on cruise operations

As part of its broader strategy, dnata Travel Group has consistently enhanced its cruise offering across its brands.

In recent years, Dubai has seen a strong rise in cruise arrivals through the rapidly expanding Dubai Harbour, where Arabian Adventures delivers shore excursions – including its award‑winning desert and city experiences – for thousands of visitors each season.

Destination Asia recently expanded into South Korea with a new office supporting cruise and MICE growth. The business also launched Expeditions by Destination Asia in 2025 in response to rising demand for small‑ship and expedition cruising, strengthening its leadership across the region.

Operational continuity across destination brands

In Dubai, Sebastien Garcia, Vice President of Arabian Adventures, and Ben Smith, Head of Operations, will continue to oversee cruise and ground operations. Oana Jianu, Karla Cervantes and the Dubai-based cruise team report directly to Ben, ensuring continuity and operational strength.

In Asia, Matt Smith, CEO of Destination Asia, will continue to work closely with Alvin Materi and the established in‑country cruise managers to ensure seamless, consistent operational delivery across all destinations.

For more information on Arabian Adventures and Destination Asia’s cruise handling divisions, visit www.arabian-adventures.com and www.destination-asia.com.

Demand for overseas travel is being fuelled by a mix of Indian Ocean beach escapes and long-haul destinations. The entry of Canada, Australia, Japan and the United States into this summer’s top 10 reflects a growing appetite for longer, experience-led holidays, as UAE travellers show an increasing willingness to explore further afield.

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, said: “International travel is proving more popular than ever this summer, with nine in 10 hotel bookings made for overseas destinations. While traditional favourites such as the Maldives, Thailand and Mauritius continue to attract strong demand, we are also seeing rising interest in long-haul travel as customers seek new destinations and more experience-driven holidays.

“UAE staycations remain an important segment of the market, particularly for short weekend getaways, with Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Fujairah among the most popular domestic destinations this summer.

“Internationally, travellers are staying for an average of around five nights, with long-haul trips often extending beyond this. Demand for four- and five-star properties remains particularly strong, with average booking values up approximately 16% year-on-year.”

dnata Travel’s experts continuously monitor evolving travel trends and leverage long-standing global partnerships to secure exclusive rates, value-added benefits, and curated holiday options for UAE customers. The agency’s summer campaign spotlights last-minute escapes to trending beach and city destinations worldwide.

dnata Travel’s featured summer 2026 holiday offers:

Maldives
Stay three nights at the 5-star Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa with dnata Travel in a Lagoon Pool Villa, with a complimentary full board upgrade, 45% savings on your stay, kids stay free, return speedboat transfers, and return flights, from AED 7,055 per adult.

Thailand
Stay three nights at the 5-star Mida Grande Resort Phuket with dnata Travel in a Deluxe Room Ocean View on Half-Board basis, with 50% savings on your stay, 40% savings on dining, kids stay free, and return flights, from AED 4,775 per adult.

Seychelles​​
Stay three nights at the 5-star Niva Labriz Seychelles with dnata Travel in a Garden Villa with breakfast daily, 30% savings on your stay, kids stay and eat free, and return flights, from AED 7,685 per adult. 

Mauritius
Stay three nights at the 5-star Long Beach, a Sunlife Resort, Mauritius with dnata Travel in a Junior Suite on Half-Board basis, with 35% savings on your stay, kids stay free, and return flights, from AED 6,085 per adult.

Istanbul
Stay three nights at the 5-star Hilton Istanbul Bomonti Hotel & Conference Center with dnata Travel in a Guest Room with breakfast daily, and return flights, from AED 3,250 per person.

To explore more trending destinations from the UAE with dnata Travel, visit www.dnataTravel.com. For more travel advice and inspiration, contact the dnata Travel experts via call or WhatsApp on 800 DNATA (36282), on social media @dnataTravel, email holidays@dnatatravel.com, or visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the UAE.

4^th June 2026, Dubai, UAE: dnata Travel Group has announced the appointment of Maura Geertsma as its new Divisional Vice President, Corporate Travel. The newly created role strengthens the company’s ability to meet global demand for strategic corporate travel solutions.

Based in Dubai, Maura will oversee dnata Travel Management – the Group’s corporate travel business – working closely with its regional leadership across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, and Iraq to enhance service excellence, strengthen market positioning, and drive the next phase of strategic growth. She brings more than 20 years of international experience across the travel, hospitality, and mobility sectors, leading commercial, customer, and partner functions across EMEA, APAC, and the Americas, with a consistent record of linking commercial strategy to long‑term value.

dnata Travel Management delivers end-to-end, traveller-centric programmes powered by advanced technology and regional expertise. As traveller expectations evolve toward more purposeful, premium, and flexible ‘bleisure’ travel, the company is enhancing its offering through digitised, data-led programmes and real-time duty of care.

John Bevan, CEO of dnata Travel Group, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Maura to the dnata Travel Group Executive Team. Maura’s global perspective and people‑first leadership will help us scale technology‑driven programmes, from online booking tools and virtual payments to real‑time visibility, while continuing to support our busiest routes within the GCC and globally.”

“I’m honoured to join dnata Travel Group,” added Maura. “My focus is to keep the traveller at the centre, raise the bar for premium and executive journeys, and deliver measurable value for our clients. I look forward to partnering with our customers and teams as we build the next phase of sustainable, connected, end-to-end corporate travel.”

As a leading corporate travel provider in the Middle East, dnata Travel Management delivers a comprehensive suite of travel programme solutions built around traveller needs. Backed by dnata Travel Group’s global platform, the business combines advanced technology, expert service, and strong supplier partnerships to support organisations across the region. Find out more at www.dnata.com/travel.

The dnata Travel Group represents the travel division of dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider. Its UAE-based travel agency dnata Travel continues to grow its GCC footprint, recognised by the prestigious industry awards as Dubai’s Leading Travel Agency 2025 and Saudi Arabia's Leading Travel Agency 2025, for a second year in a row. As part of a recent rebrand, the company has unveiled a new uniform for its retail teams, establishing the brand further as a modern travel agency, which continues to grow and innovate from its Dubai base.

Arabian Adventures was recognised across four categories, including the UAE’s Leading Destination Management Company 2025, Dubai's Leading Destination Management Company 2025, UAE’s Leading Desert Safari Company 2025, and UAE’s Leading Tour Operator 2025. Its team continues to bring new tours and experiences to the UAE market, with recent launches including exclusive private dining experience, The Veuve Clicquot Desert Experience by Arabian Adventures, and multi-experience destination, The Fort – Lisaili.

The Group’s corporate travel services provider, dnata Travel Management, was also successful across three categories at the awards this year, recognised as the Middle East's Leading Corporate Travel Company 2025, Dubai's Leading Travel Management Company 2025, and Bahrain's Leading Travel Management Company 2025. Meanwhile the Air division of dnata Representation Services took home the coveted accolade of the Middle East's Leading Airline GSA 2025. 

John Bevan, CEO of the dnata Travel Group, commented: “We are delighted to announce a record ten award wins for dnata Travel Group brands across multiple categories at this globally recognised awards programme for 2025. These achievements underscore the strength of our Dubai-based operations and the industry-leading products and services our teams continue to deliver. It is especially rewarding to see our expanding GCC offering increasingly recognised each year, as we remain committed to driving an innovative and dynamic travel agenda across the Middle East and beyond.”

The World Travel Awards serves to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. The awards are voted on by travel and tourism professionals worldwide.

Find out more about the dnata Travel Group at www.dnata.com/travel. 

The private island resorts of the Maldives are dominating traveller bookings, up more than 100% compared to the same period last year. The team at dnata Travel attribute this upswing in demand to an impressive range of offers currently available during a sought-after time to travel to the islands, with between 30 to 50% savings on a travellers’ stay remaining available at popular resorts.

Winter sun in Thailand also continues to prove popular during early December, with direct flights to the islands of Phuket and Krabi taking centre stage, with increased connectivity from the UAE.

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, commented: “With the expectation of a longer school holiday this December, we are seeing travellers combining their Eid Al Etihad break with the wider winter period for extended stays, or multiple trips. Bookings are up this year by 53% overall, including local and international stays.

“December marks the best time of year to travel to the islands of the Maldives and Thailand for weather and swimming conditions. In contrast, the UK is popular for its festive atmosphere and winter markets as the weather cools and evenings get darker. Umrah travel demand is up for Saudi, while Sri Lanka is popular for more extensive itineraries for exploration, and excellent value for money.

“For travellers staying closer to home, a trend we’re witnessing is a focus on resort properties away from the city, in Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman, and on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island.”

Across the wider winter months for 2025, other destinations rising in popularity for UAE traveller bookings include the Seychelles islands, alongside South Korea, the Netherlands, USA, and Finland. Traditional winter destinations in Europe are starting to gain traction for festive markets and ski seasons, alongside bookings for unique winter experiences in Finnish Lapland.

Travellers can explore dnata Travel’s winter offers at dnataTravel.com or speak to a travel expert in-store across its 14 retail outlets, including popular locations in Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills Mall, and further across the UAE. Savings and added extras can be discovered across trending winter sun, ski, and festive-market-themed breaks. Gulf cruises, rising in popularity during the winter months, are also available with sailings across Eid Al Etihad, the festive period, and New Year’s Eve.

Top offers for Eid Al Etihad 2025 include a stay in the trending destination of the Maldives at the 5-star Kurumba Maldives with dnata Travel in a Deluxe Bungalow on all-inclusive, with return speedboat transfers, from AED 6,635 per person. In ever-popular Sri Lanka, travellers can stay at Avani Kalutara Resort with dnata Travel for three nights in a Superior Courtyard View Room with breakfast daily, and return flights, from AED 3,199 per person. Conveniently departing from Dubai on 29^th November 2025, a seven-night cruise on Full Board on-board the MSC Euribia can take travellers to Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Sir Bani Yas Island, and back to Dubai, from AED 3,500 per person.

To explore trending holiday destinations from the UAE with dnata Travel, visit www.dnataTravel.com. For more travel advice and inspiration, contact the dnata Travel experts via call or WhatsApp on 800 DNATA (36282), on social media @dnataTravel, email holidays@dnatatravel.com, or visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the UAE.

After accounting for income tax charges, the Group’s profit after tax is AED 10.6 billion (US$ 2.9 billion).

Illustrating its strong operating profitability, the Group maintained a robust EBITDA of AED 21.1 billion (US$ 5.7 billion), 3% higher than the AED 20.4 billion (US$ 5.6 billion) reported for the same period last year.

Group revenue was AED 75.4 billion (US$ 20.6 billion) for the first six months of 2025-26, up 4% from AED 70.8 billion (US$ 19.3 billion) last year.

The Group closed the first half year of 2025-26 with a record cash position of AED 56.0 billion (US$ 15.2 billion) on 30 September 2025, compared to AED 53.4 billion (US$ 14.6 billion) on 31 March 2025. The Group has been able to tap on its own strong cash reserves to support business needs, including payments for new aircraft deliveries and other debt. The Group also paid AED 2 billion (US$ 545 million) in dividend to its owner, as declared at the end of its 2024-25 financial year.

His Highness (HH) 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. I’m delighted to note that Emirates maintains its position as the world’s most profitable airline for this half-year reporting period.

“We saw benefit from lower fuel prices and a favourable currency exchange environment, but primarily, it was the unflagging demand and growing customer preference for our product and services that drove revenue growth and profitability.

“Emirates and dnata have invested billions to continually enhance our products and services, to bring new products to market, to improve our operations through innovation and technology, and to look after our employees who ensure our customers’ safety and satisfaction. These are core to our DNA. 

“The Group’s strong profitability enables us to continue making these investments, and to scale up our proven business models in concert with Dubai’s growth as a global city of choice for talent, for businesses, and for tourists.”

HH Sheikh Ahmed added: “Global demand for air transport and travel services has been buoyant, despite geo-political events and economic concerns in some markets. We expect this demand resilience to continue for the rest of 2025-26 and look forward to increasing our capacity to grow revenues as new A350 aircraft join the Emirates fleet, and new facilities come online at dnata.”

To support increased operations and business activities, the Emirates Group’s employee base, compared to 31 March 2025, grew 3% to an overall count of 124,927 on 30 September 2025. Both Emirates and dnata have ongoing recruitment drives to support their future requirements.

dnata

dnata saw strong growth in the first six months of 2025-26, as it continued to ramp up operations across its cargo and ground handling, catering and retail, and travel services businesses.

In the first half of 2025-26, dnata’s airport services and catering and retail divisions won several significant new contracts and grew existing customers across its international operations. This shows dnata’s ability to serve the diverse requirements of its airline customers with high safety standards and consistently high-quality products and services.

dnata continued to make strategic investments in its business to respond to customer needs and tap on market prospects. It announced plans to deploy 800 new ground support equipment (GSE) units across its global network in 2025, an investment valued at US$ 110 million to further enhance operational performance and secure a steady supply of advanced, lower-emission equipment to support dnata’s growth and sustainability targets.

Other highlights in the first half of 2025-26 include: the launch of its airport hospitality brand, marhaba, in the United Kingdom; a €3 million minority stake investment in WonderMiles, an advanced NDC-enabled booking platform to strengthen dnata Travel’s corporate business offering; and the disposal of its 75% stake in Super Bus, which operates sightseeing tours in the UAE.

dnata also entered its first major sports sponsorship partnership, signing a three-year agreement with Dubai Basketball to become a Founding Partner of the city’s first professional basketball franchise.

dnata’s revenue, including other operating income, of AED 11.7 billion (US$ 3.2 billion) increased by 13% compared to AED 10.4 billion (US$ 2.8 billion) generated in the same period last year.

Overall profit before tax for dnata is AED 843 million (US$ 230 million), up by 17% from the same period last year. dnata’s profit after tax is AED 697 million (US$ 190 million).

Illustrating its operating profitability, dnata’s EBITDA was AED 1.4 billion (US$ 372 million), up 5% from last year’s AED 1.3 billion (US$ 354 million).

dnata’s airport operations remains the largest contributor to revenue with AED 5.5 billion (US$ 1.5 billion), a 15% increase compared to the same period last year, as its airline customers’ operations continued to pick up particularly in Italy, Australia, the UK and the UAE.  Across its operations, the number of aircraft turns handled by dnata increased by 15% to 450,903 bolstered by its newly launched operations at Rome Fiumicino Airport, and it recorded 1.59 million tonnes of cargo handled, up by 3% due to additional cargo handling driven by its UAE operations.

dnata’s flight catering and retail operations, contributed AED 4.1 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) to its revenue, up 11% as its retail product grew significantly as part of the division’s strategy, catering production increases in Australia and the UK to meet customer demand, and the positive impact of revised contracts to reflect rising supply costs. The overall number of meals uplifted slightly decreased by 1% to 60.0 million meals compared to last year.

dnata's travel division contributed AED 2.0 billion (US$ 538 million) to revenue, up 11% compared to AED 1.8 billion (US$ 483 million) for the same period last year.  The division reported an underlying total transactional value (TTV) of AED 5.0 billion (US$ 1.4 billion), compared to AED 4.5 billion (US$ 1.2 billion), up 9% compared to the same period last year.

Emirates airline

Emirates continued to enhance its network and connectivity options through its Dubai hub.  During the first half of 2025-26, Emirates launched new flight services to: Danang, Siem Reap, Shenzhen and Hangzhou. At 30 September, Emirates’ passenger and cargo network spanned 153 airports in 81 countries and territories.

The airline strengthened its network connectivity by deploying 28 additional weekly scheduled flights to: Antananarivo, Johannesburg, Muscat, Rome, Riyadh and Taipei.

Providing even more connection options for customers, during the first six months of 2025-26, Emirates entered agreements with 3 codeshare and interline partners: Air Seychelles, Condor, and Aurigny.

Between 1 April and 30 September, Emirates received delivery of 5 new A350 aircraft, adding more Business Class and Premium Economy seats into the airline’s inventory.  During this period, 23 aircraft (6 A380s, 17 Boeing 777s) with fully refreshed interiors rolled out of the airline’s US$ 5 billion retrofit programme. This enabled Emirates to bring its latest cabin products to even more markets, including the industry-leading Emirates Premium Economy. By 30 September, Emirates Premium Economy was available to customers flying between Dubai and 61 cities.

On ground, “Emirates First” opened at Dubai Airport, offering First Class customers and Platinum Skywards members a luxurious private check-in area and experience. In the first six months of 2025-26, Emirates accelerated the roll-out of its retail strategy with the opening of new concept travel stores in Accra, Bangkok, Geneva, Jakarta, Mauritius, Osaka, Seoul, Singapore.

Emirates continued to progress on its environmental initiatives, uplifting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) where available and feasible, including at 37 airports.  In April, Emirates joined the Aviation Circularity Consortium (ACC), a network of organisations committed to building a circular economy for aviation and creating new pathways to accelerate decarbonisation through high-value circularity in the global supply chain.

In the first half of 2025-26, Emirates made notable investments to boost its global brand visibility. The airline signed multi-year sponsorship deals to become Platinum Partner of FC Bayern Munchen, Official Main Sponsor of Real Madrid Basketball, and Premium Partner and Official Airline Partner of the Investec Champions Cup and European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) Challenge Cup. Emirates also extended its partnership with ATP as Premier Partner and Official Airline of the ATP Tour up to 2030, and its shirt sponsorship with Olympique Lyonnais until 2030. 

Overall capacity during the first six months of the year increased by 5% to 31.3 billion Available Tonne Kilometres (ATKM) due to expanded flight operations. Capacity measured in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKM), increased by 5%, whilst passenger traffic carried measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometres (RPKM) was up by 4% with an average Passenger Seat Factor of 79.5%, compared with 80.0% during the same period last year. Emirates carried 27.8 million passengers between 1 April and 30 September 2025, up 4% from the same period last year.

Emirates SkyCargo transported 1.25 million tonnes in the first six months of the year, up by 4% compared to the same period last year. Customer demand for Emirates SkyCargo’s specialised products and excellent network of freighter and bellyhold cargo operations remained steady. However, cargo yields decreased by 6% due to softening demand in some market segments amidst tariff concerns.

Emirates SkyCargo added capacity from 3 new Boeing 777 freighter delivered. In April, the cargo division launched Emirates Courier Express, an innovative product that leverages the power of the airline’s global network to provide door-to-door express shipping services for businesses.

Cementing its position as the world’s most profitable airline for the half year reporting period, Emirates profit before tax for the first half of 2025-26 hit a new record of AED 11.4 billion (US$ 3.1 billion), compared to AED 9.7 billion (US$ 2.6 billion) last year. Emirates profit after tax is AED 9.9 billion (US$ 2.7 billion).

Emirates revenue, including other operating income, of AED 65.6 billion (US$ 17.9 billion) was up 6% compared with AED 62.2 billion (US$ 16.9 billion) for the same period last year. The airline’s new record revenue can be attributed to unabated travel appetite across markets, and customer preference for Emirates’ products and services, particularly for its premium cabins.

Emirates’ operating costs (including fuel) grew by 4% in line with increased operations. While average fuel prices were 10% lower compared to the same period last year, fuel remains the largest component of the airline’s operating cost at 30%.

Driven by customer demand and increased operations during the six months, Emirates’ EBITDA of AED 19.7 billion (US$ 5.4 billion) remained strong, up 3% compared to AED 19.1 billion (US$ 5.2 billion) for the same period last year.

Emirates Flight Catering grew revenue from external customers by 13% to AED 555 million (US$ 151 million), uplifting 7.7 million meals (up by 2%) for 116 airlines during the period.

Emirates Leisure Retail acquired the remaining 25% stake in Air Ventures LLC in the US, securing full ownership of the entity, which operates airport retail and F&B outlets.

Dubai, UAE, 18 September 2025: dnata has signed a three-year sponsorship agreement with Dubai Basketball, becoming a Founding Partner of the city’s first professional basketball franchise. The deal represents dnata’s first major sports sponsorship and places the company’s brand at the centre of one of the most ambitious sporting projects in the region.

With Dubai Basketball preparing for both the prestigious EuroLeague, and a return to the Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League, the partnership highlights dnata’s commitment to elevating the profile of basketball in the UAE and showcasing the nation’s growing role in international competition.

From runway to the rim

As part of the partnership, dnata’s branding will appear on Dubai Basketball’s official jerseys, across the Coca-Cola Arena home court, and on the team’s digital platforms. The company will also leverage the partnership to showcase its portfolio of brands – including dnata Travel, Arabian Adventures, and marhaba – through game-day experiences and fan activations.

dnata will also serve as the official travel partner of Dubai Basketball, supporting the team’s journey across Europe and ensuring seamless travel as the club competes in elite competitions.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata, said: “This is a landmark moment for dnata and a true full-court press into the world of sport. Like Dubai Basketball, we believe in a play-to-win mindset – aiming high, competing with the best, and never settling for less. Their rapid rise mirrors our own journey as a Dubai-born company that has grown into a truly global brand, driven by the same discipline and teamwork that turn good into great.”

“Basketball has a universal appeal - it transcends borders, unites communities, and brings everyone, including families, together through a shared passion. We play the same role through our global services, connecting millions across continents and meeting the needs of every journey. As Dubai Basketball prepares to represent the city in Europe’s top leagues, we are proud to stand alongside them, support their growth, and bring our brands closer to fans at home and abroad.”

From Dubai to the world

Dubai Basketball has made rapid progress since its formation in 2023. In its debut season in the Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League, the club advanced to the semifinals and finished third overall, a landmark achievement for a first-year team.

The franchise has been confirmed to return to the ABA League and will also compete in the EuroLeague, widely regarded as one of the strongest basketball competitions in the world. Home games will be staged at Coca-Cola Arena, bringing some of Europe’s most storied clubs to the city.

Co-Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Basketball, Nick Oakley commented: “Dubai Basketball will compete in Europe’s great cities, carrying the pride of Dubai onto the world stage. We are proud to welcome dnata as our official travel partner, a world-class brand that shares our vision and ambition. Together, we will build an extraordinary team for our city and create a sporting experience that unites and inspires our fans.”

As Dubai Basketball further cements its international name through the upcoming leagues, dnata – with operations across six continents – is aligning its global presence with the team’s rapid ascent. The collaboration reflects how both brands are carrying Dubai’s name into arenas worldwide, in sport and in travel and aviation.

The partnership also presents a unique opportunity for dnata to tap into the club’s growing fanbase. During Dubai Basketball’s debut at the ABA League last season, Coca-Cola Arena attracted nearly 80,000 spectators in just 18 home games. With the team now competing in the EuroLeague, the agreement marks the start of a three-year collaboration that will see dnata embedded into Dubai Basketball’s journey across a minimum of 31 home games in a single season, with visibility on and off the court as they take on Europe’s best.

About dnata

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in more than 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2024-25, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 794,000 aircraft turns, moved 3.1 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 114 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 2.6 billion.

For more information, visit dnata.com. For media enquiries, reach out to public.relations@dnata.com.

About Dubai Basketball

Founded in 2023, Dubai Basketball is a newly established professional basketball franchise that plays in Europe’s Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League for the 2024/25 season. The franchise has assembled a strong roster of players, with the team represented by countries including the Philippines, USA, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Jordan, Turkey, Latvia, Italy, Bosnia, and France. The franchise plays their home games in the ABA League at Coca-Cola Arena.

Dubai Basketball stands as a testament to the power of passion and dedication in shaping the landscape of basketball in the UAE and beyond. Its foundation is built upon a diverse and talented team, consisting of FIBA-certified coaches, former professional players, business experts, and passionate enthusiasts.

Dubai Basketball is committed to catalysing positive social change, where dreams are not just envisioned but realised, talents are not merely found but nurtured, and aspirations are not only lived but fulfilled.

Keep up to date with the latest news on Dubai Basketball by visiting www.dubaibasketball.com or on social media platforms:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/dubaibasketballclub 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dubaibasketballclub/

X - https://x.com/dubaibasket

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@DubaiBasketball

Media enquiries: David Jover, david.j@dubaibasketball.com or Hanan Mohamed, hanan.m@dubaibasketball.com

Announced at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, the collaboration comes as tourist arrivals from the UAE grew by 28% in the first quarter of 2025, compared to the same period last year, according to the SLTDA.   

dnata Travel’s own booking trends reflect Sri Lanka’s growing appeal. During last year’s peak summer and winter travel seasons, the island nation emerged as one of the most booked international destinations for UAE travellers – highlighting strong momentum across key holiday periods. 

Tapping into premium travel trends

The surge is driven by a rise in premium leisure travel and short-break holidays, with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) travellers drawn to Sri Lanka’s blend of nature, culture, adventure, and wellness – all just over four hours away by flight.

Through the new strategic alliance, dnata Travel and SLTDA will jointly promote curated travel experiences, destination awareness campaigns, and tailored offers for Gulf travellers looking for unique escapes. 

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, commented: “Over the past year, we've seen Sri Lanka rise rapidly in demand across our leisure travel platforms. Bookings from the UAE are up by double digits, especially for travellers seeking quick escapes tied to school breaks, long weekends, and nature-based experiences.” 

“Our customer insights show that today’s Gulf traveller is more discerning and experience-driven than ever – they’re looking for meaningful journeys that balance adventure and comfort, and Sri Lanka delivers on all fronts." 

"Through this collaboration, we’ll not only broaden awareness of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known regions, but also help redefine what travel to the island can look like for the Gulf market – from boutique beach stays and wellness retreats to soft adventure and highland exploration.”  

Campaign to spotlight key travel themes

dnata Travel will launch a dedicated destination marketing campaign in collaboration with Sri Lanka-based destination management company Aitken Spence Travels. The campaign will run across the UAE and the wider GCC, aiming to drive awareness, increase bookings, and introduce more travellers to Sri Lanka’s diverse offerings.   

Promotional themes will include:   

• Luxury and wellness: Boutique villas, wellness resorts, and traditional Ayurveda retreats offer GCC travellers short-haul options focused on rest and rejuvenation.
• Cool climates: Highland destinations like Nuwara Eliya and Ella provide scenic landscapes and cooler weather – an appealing alternative to the Gulf’s summer heat.
• Adventure and nature: Soft adventure activities, including leopard safaris in Yala and whale watching in Mirissa, tap into rising demand for nature-based travel.
• Culture and gastronomy: Sri Lanka’s temples, heritage cities, and rich cuisine cater to culturally curious travellers looking for immersive experiences.
• Romantic getaways: Secluded coastal resorts and tranquil forest lodges offer privacy and atmosphere for couples and honeymooners.   

Strategic push for GCC markets   

The collaboration supports Sri Lanka’s broader tourism strategy to diversify its visitor base and grow arrivals from the region. The UAE, in particular, is seen as a high-potential market for longer-stay, experience-focused travellers. 

The country is represented by more than 70 tourism stakeholders at ATM this year, from hotels to destination management companies, all showcasing Sri Lanka’s diverse offerings.  

“The Middle East remains a key region for inbound tourism to Sri Lanka. We are fully equipped to meet the evolving needs and expectations of Middle Eastern travellers, thanks to our robust tourism infrastructure,” said Sampath Nissanka, Managing Director at SLTDA.

“The significant presence of Sri Lankan tourism partners at ATM 2025 is a clear indicator of the country's dedication to deepening its engagement with the Middle Eastern market and highlighting the wide array of travel experiences Sri Lanka has to offer.”

The campaign also aligns with dnata Travel’s ongoing efforts to expand its portfolio of short-haul, experience-led destinations tailored to evolving Gulf traveller preferences.   

Sri Lanka, with its year-round appeal and growing air connectivity, is well positioned to capture a greater share of regional leisure travel in 2025 and beyond.   

To explore trending holiday destinations from the UAE with dnata Travel, visit www.dnataTravel.com. For more travel advice and inspiration, contact the dnata Travel experts via call or WhatsApp on 800 DNATA (36282), on social media @dnataTravel, email holidays@dnatatravel.com, or visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the UAE. 

A key highlight for the Group this year is The Fort – Lisaili, a newly launched desert entertainment destination in Dubai. Operated by destination management company and tour provider Arabian Adventures, the immersive venue offers a variety of experiences set against an iconic backdrop of a desert fort. At ATM 2025, a scaled-down replica of The Fort will be on display at dnata’s stand, giving visitors a unique ‘taste of the desert’ from the Dubai World Trade Centre. Located just 45 minutes from the event venue, Arabian Adventures is also inviting attendees to experience The Fort in person while in the city. 

Making their ATM debut with their dedicated spaces at the dnata Travel Group stand are Destination Asia, a leading destination management company specialising in bespoke travel experiences across East and Southern Asia, as well as dnata Representation Services - Land, which offers tailored sales, marketing, PR, infrastructure, and call centre solutions to some of the world’s most prominent travel brands. 

Other dnata Travel Group brands at ATM this year include airport hospitality services provider marhaba, leisure accommodation wholesale specialist Yalago, digital B2B attractions marketplace priohub, and travel consolidator Gold Medal. Representatives from across the wider dnata Group will also be on hand throughout the event to meet industry partners and customers. 

John Bevan, CEO, dnata Travel Group commented: “ATM Dubai is an opportunity for us to spotlight the innovation and ambition driving our UAE-based travel brands. With strong growth in both inbound and outbound travel, we’re seeing travellers seek out deeper, more personalised experiences, and our offerings are built to meet that demand. From the heart of the desert to the heart of Asia, our goal is to enhance every step of the journey - before, during, and beyond the trip itself." 

Representatives from the dnata Travel Group will also share insights and experiences in the following conference sessions during the event this year: 

• John Bevan, CEO, dnata Travel Group, speaking on a panel at the ATM Future Stage on ‘Beyond 2025: The Microtrends Redefining Travel’ (28th April); and 
   
• Sébastien Doussin, Senior Vice President – Global Travel Services & Destination Management, dnata Travel Group, speaking at the ATM Business Events Stage, on ‘The Big-Ticket Events: Global Impact and Learnings ’ (30th April).

Meet the dnata Travel Group team at Arabian Travel Market, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre between 28th April and 1st May 2025, at stand ME1250, next to the Emirates stand. Find out more at www.dnata.com/travel. 

Thailand continues as the favourite international holiday destination, maintaining its top spot from last year’s Eid Al Etihad weekend. Sri Lanka is a standout new entry, as bookings almost double in volume compared to the same period last year.

So far, 85% of all bookings are for international travel, while the remaining 15% are for UAE staycations. Consistent with typical trends, staycations are booked closer to holiday date, therefore this balance may switch more towards staycations and regional stays as November progresses. This year, Ras Al Khaimah is popular for staycations, thanks to an ever-increasing range of new or fully reimagined hotels offering unique experiences.

Matthew Vlemmiks, dnata Travel Leisure Manager, commented: “Sri Lanka has always been popular in this market and is firmly back on the map for Eid Al Etihad 2024. With a short flight time and excellent value, both in the air and on the ground, the country appeals to travellers with its diverse offerings including natural landscapes, wildlife spotting, picturesque beaches, historic landmarks, and incredible food.

“Thailand remains in demand with direct flights to Bangkok, Phuket and Krabi, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing beach weekend or an action-packed city break. The Maldives and Turkey also attract holidaymakers with shorter flight times, a wide range of resorts, and family-friendly activities.

“While the UK sees a lot of air traffic from residents of the UAE visiting loved ones, it is also in high demand at this time of the year with tourists seeking a festive feel and world-class shopping.”

Across the wider winter months, dnata Travel experts report a growing interest in more adventurous, multi-destination itineraries. Popular choices include European winter markets, Northern Light excursions, and classic ski trips. Demand is also rising for dnata Travel’s all-inclusive packages which simplify trip planning by covering activities, ski passes and après-ski – all tailored to travellers’ preferences.

New for 2024, culturally rich itineraries across Japan and Vietnam are trending, with both destinations accessible via direct flights. Additionally, winter sun escapes to the Indian Ocean remain in high demand, with the Maldives and Seychelles continuing to perform well.

Travellers can explore dnata Travel’s winter offers on the newly enhanced dnataTravel.com website, offering savings and added extras across trending winter sun, winter snow, and all-inclusive holidays. Top offers include a stay in the trending destination of Sri Lanka at the 5-star Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in a Premier Beach Access Room with daily breakfast and 25% savings on a travellers’ stay. In the ever-popular Maldives, travellers can stay at the 5-star Kandima Maldives with 40% savings, and complimentary kids stays.

To explore trending holiday destinations from the UAE with dnata Travel, visit www.dnataTravel.com. For more travel advice and inspiration, contact the dnata Travel experts via call or WhatsApp on 800 DNATA (36282), on social media @dnataTravel, email holidays@dnatatravel.com, or visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the UAE.

This is the first financial year that the UAE corporate income tax, enacted in 2023, is applied to the Emirates Group. After accounting for the 9% tax charge, the Group’s profit after tax is AED 9.3 billion (USD 2.5 billion).

Demonstrating its strong operating profitability, the Group maintained a robust EBITDA of AED 20.4 billion (US$ 5.6 billion), slightly lower from AED 20.6 billion (US$ 5.6 billion) last year.

Group revenue was AED 70.8 billion (US$ 19.3 billion) for the first six months of 2024-25, up 5% from AED 67.3 billion (US$ 18.3 billion) last year. This reflects the consistently strong customer demand across business divisions, and across regions.

The Group closed the first half year of 2024-25 with a solid cash position of AED 43.7 billion (US$ 11.9 billion) on 30 September 2024, compared to AED 47.1 billion (US$ 12.8 billion) on 31 March 2024. The Group has been able to tap on its own strong cash reserves to support business needs, including payments for new freighter aircraft orders and other debt payments. The Group also paid AED 2 billion in dividend to its owner, as declared at the end of its 2023-24 financial year.

His Highness (HH) Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: “The Group has surpassed its record performance of last year to deliver a fantastic result for the first half of 2024-25. This again illustrates the power of our proven business model working in combination with Dubai’s growth trajectory as a city of choice to live, work, visit, connect through, and do business in.

“The Group’s strong profitability enables us to make the investments necessary for our continued success. We’re investing billions of dollars to bring new products and services to the market for our customers; to implement advanced technologies and other innovation projects to drive growth; and to look after our employees who work hard every day to ensure our customers’ safety and satisfaction.”

HH Sheikh Ahmed added: “We expect customer demand to remain strong for the rest of 2024-25, and we look forward to increasing our capacity to grow revenues as new aircraft join the Emirates fleet and new facilities come online at dnata. The outlook is positive, but we don’t intend to rest on our laurels. We will stay agile in deploying our capacity and resources in a dynamic marketplace.”

To support increased operations and business activities, the Emirates Group’s employee base, compared to 31 March 2024, grew 3% to an overall count of 114,610 on 30 September 2024. Both Emirates and dnata have ongoing recruitment drives to support their future requirements.

dnata

dnata saw strong growth in the first six months of 2024-25, as it continued to ramp up operations across its cargo and ground handling, catering and retail, and travel services businesses.

In the first half of 2024-25, dnata’s airport services and catering and retail divisions won several significant new contracts, and grew existing customers across its international operations. This shows dnata’s ability to serve the diverse requirements of its airline customers with high safety standards and consistently high-quality products and services.

dnata continued to make strategic investments in its business to respond to customer needs and tap on market prospects. Highlights in the first half of 2024-25 include: the expansion of its USA footprint with the launch of ground handling operations at Raleigh-Durham International airport; the signing of significant deals for new ground support equipment (GSE) estimated at a total value of over US$ 210 million over their lifespan; and the planned 50% increase in cargo handling capacity in Zurich, Switzerland, with additional warehouse capacity.

dnata also progressed its environmental agenda to reduce emissions, with investments to transition its entire fleet of non-electric airside vehicles and GSEs in the UAE to biodiesel, and the addition of more electric GSEs to its Brazil and UAE operations.

dnata’s revenue, including other operating income, of AED 10.4 billion (US$ 2.8 billion) increased by 11% compared to AED 9.3 billion (US$ 2.5 billion) generated in the same period last year.

Overall profit before tax for dnata is AED 720 million (US$ 196 million), down by 5% from the same period last year, primarily due to a one-off impairment charge of AED 152 million. dnata’s profit after tax is AED 571 million (US$ 156 million).

Illustrating its operating profitability, dnata’s EBITDA was AED 1.3 billion (US$ 354 million), up 16% from last year’s AED 1.1 billion (US$ 305 million).

dnata’s airport operations remains the largest contributor to revenue with AED 4.8 billion (US$ 1.3 billion), a 15% increase compared to the same period last year, as its airline customers’ operations continued to pick up particularly in Australia, Singapore, the UAE and UK.  Across its operations, the number of aircraft turns handled by dnata increased by 2% to 391,365, and it recorded 1.5 million tonnes of cargo handled, up by 18% due to the buoyant demand for air cargo services globally.

dnata’s flight catering and retail operations, contributed AED 3.7 billion (US$ 1.0 billion) to its revenue, up 8% with catering production increases in Australia and the UK to meet customer demand, as well as the growth of its retail product as part of the division’s strategy, and the positive impact of revised contracts to reflect rising supply costs. The overall number of meals uplifted decreased by 5% to 62.7 million meals compared to last year’s 66.3 million meals.

dnata's travel division contributed AED 1.8 billion (US$ 483 million) to revenue, up 23% compared to AED 1.4 billion (US$ 391 million) for the same period last year, with strong contributions from its Imagine Cruising, Destination Asia and Middle East Corporate Travel businesses. The division reported an underlying total transactional value (TTV) sales of AED 4.5 billion (US$ 1.2 billion), compared to AED 4.1 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) for the same period last year.

Emirates airline

Emirates continued to enhance its network and increase connectivity options through its Dubai hub.  During the first half of 2024-25, Emirates increased scheduled flights to 8 cities: Amsterdam, Cebu, Clark, Luanda, Lyon, Madrid, Manila and Singapore.

In May, Emirates restarted daily services to Phnom Penh in Cambodia via Singapore. In June, it launched daily services to Bogotá via Miami, expanding the airline’s South American presence to Colombia. In September, Emirates opened a new route to Madagascar via the Seychelles – taking its passenger and cargo network to 148 airports in 80 countries by 30 September.

Expanding connectivity options for customers, during the first six months of 2024-25, Emirates entered into new agreements with 7 codeshare, interline, and intermodal partners: AirPeace, Avianca, BLADE, ITA Airways, Iceland Air, SNCF Railway, and Viva Aerobus.

Between 1 April and 30 September, 8 aircraft (3 A380s, 5 Boeing 777s) with fully refreshed interiors rolled out of the airline’s US$ 4 billion retrofit programme. This enabled Emirates to accelerate the deployment of its latest cabin products, including its latest 4-class Boeing 777 that feature a new 1-2-1 layout of lie-flat seats with personal minibars in Business Class, and the popular Emirates Premium Economy.

The first retrofitted Emirates 777 was deployed to Geneva in August, followed by Tokyo Haneda and Brussels. For the next six months, as more aircraft are retrofitted, Emirates has lined up 10 more routes for its refurbished 777s: Riyadh, Zurich, Kuwait, Damman, Chicago, Boston, Dallas Fort Worth, Seattle, Newark-Athens and Miami-Bogota.

By year end, Emirates’ latest A380 and Boeing 777 inflight experiences including Premium Economy, will be available to customers on over 30 routes.

On ground, AED 44 million was invested to open new signature Emirates Lounges for premium customers in London Stansted and Jeddah airports, and refurbish the existing facility at Paris Charles De Gaulle. This is part of an ongoing multi-million dollar programme to enhance its network of owned Emirates Lounges. In July, Emirates opened a new concept travel store in Hong Kong, its first outside of the UAE, and it plans to launch more experiential stores around its network as part of its retail strategy.

Emirates continued to progress on its environmental initiatives, uplifting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) where available and feasible. During the first six months of 2024-25, Emirates uplifted SAF for the first time in Singapore and London Heathrow.  

Emirates joined the Aviation Initiative for Renewable Energy (aireg) in Germany; and signed up as industry partner of the Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA) at the University of Cambridge, contributing to the research and development of emissions reduction pathways. The AIA partnership also marked Emirates’ first disbursement from its US$ 200 million fund, specifically set aside to support R&D to advance sustainability solutions for aviation.

In the first half of 2024-25, Emirates boosted investments in its global brand visibility notably signing a significant new sponsorship deal to be Official Airline Partner of The Championships – Wimbledon. Emirates also extended its longstanding partnerships with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for a further 8 years, and with Portugal’s SL Benfica football club for another 5 years.

Overall capacity during the first six months of the year increased by 5% to 29.9 billion Available Tonne Kilometres (ATKM) due to expanded flight operations. Capacity measured in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKM), increased by 4%, whilst passenger traffic carried measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometres (RPKM) was up by 2% with an average Passenger Seat Factor of 80.0%, compared with 81.5% during the same period last year. Emirates carried 26.9 million passengers between 1 April and 30 September 2024, up 3% from the same period last year.

Emirates SkyCargo transported 1,198,000 tonnes in the first six months of the year, up 16% compared to the same period last year, with notable volume contributions from strong Chinese eCommerce traffic, and a rise in shipments bound for Dubai. 

Emirates SkyCargo was able to meet demand with added capacity from 1 new Boeing 777 freighter delivered, and 2 additional wet-leased Boeing 747Fs.  During the first six months of 2024-25, Emirates placed orders for 10 additional Boeing 777 freighters to support its growth.

Strong customer demand for Emirates SkyCargo’s specialised products and excellent network of freighter and bellyhold cargo operations saw cargo yields increase by 11%.

Emirates profit before tax for the first half of 2024-25 hit a new record of AED 9.7 billion (US$ 2.6 billion), compared to AED 9.5 billion (US$ 2.6 billion) for the same period last year. Emirates profit after tax is AED 8.7 billion (US$ 2.4 billion).

Emirates revenue, including other operating income, of AED 62.2 billion (US$ 16.9 billion) was up 5% compared with AED 59.5 billion (US$ 16.2 billion) for the same period last year. The airline’s new record revenue can be attributed to consistently strong travel and air cargo demand across markets, and its ability to offer customers great value and services.

Emirates’ direct operating costs (including fuel) grew by 6% in line with increased operations. Fuel remains the largest component of the airline’s operating cost (32%), compared to 34% in the same period last year.

Driven by customer demand and increased operations during the six months, Emirates’ EBITDA of AED 19.1 billion (US$ 5.2 billion) remained very strong, although slightly down by 2% compared to AED 19.5 billion (US$ 5.3 billion) for the same period last year.

[1] The UAE corporate tax applies to the Emirates Group from its 2024-25 financial year. Hence, PAT figures for September 2024 and September 2023 are not directly comparable.

The study, compiled by global research firm Oxford Economics, includes an assessment of direct economic activity generated by the aviation sector, indirect activity generated through the sector’s supply chain, and induced activity supported through wage-funded consumption by the local aviation workforce. The study also assesses the catalytic impact of tourism spending facilitated by the aviation sector in Dubai.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group, and Chairman of Dubai Airports said: “Under the leadership of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s aviation sector has been a core pillar of our city’s economic growth strategy to date, and it will continue to play a key role in the D33 Economic Agenda.

“Supported by strong air connectivity, Dubai has a prominent presence on the global stage for trade, investments, tourism, and is a leading player in aviation and logistics. Our ambitious plans for Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International airport, and our ongoing investments to expand capacity at Dubai International, will unlock further economic opportunities by supporting the projected demand for air transport. Our growth plans will generate even more skilled jobs, and also help drive innovation as we work with leading technology partners to develop future solutions to enhance travel experiences and make operations more efficient and secure.”  

Aviation sector’s contribution to Dubai economy

In 2023, Dubai’s aviation sector, consisting of Emirates Group, Dubai Airports (including Dubai International and Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum airports), and other aviation sector entities¹ are estimated to have supported AED 137 billion (USD 37.3 billion) in gross value added² (GVA), equivalent to 27% of Dubai’s GDP.  This included the core economic impact of AED 94 billion, and AED 43 billion from the catalytic impact of aviation-facilitated tourism. These figures are projected to increase steadily, with aviation activities facilitated by Emirates and Dubai Airports contributing AED 196 billion, or 32% of Dubai’s forecasted GDP by 2030 (in 2023 prices).

Aviation-led activity also accounted for 631,000 jobs across Dubai, equivalent to one in five jobs in the emirate in 2023. A further 185,000 aviation-linked jobs are expected to be created by 2030, with the total number of jobs supported by Dubai’s aviation sector forecast to grow to 816,000 jobs.

A previous economic impact report released by Oxford Economics in 2014 found that the aviation sector contributed to 27% of Dubai’s GDP and supported 417,000 jobs. While the latest results indicate the share of Dubai’s GDP has remained stable, the sector’s gross value added has increased in real terms, with the current figures reflecting faster growth across other sectors, as well as diversification in the wider economy over the past decade.

Dubai’s vital investment to futureproof its aviation sector and ensure it remains an economic driver, is evident in ongoing major investments to expand capacity and operations at Dubai International, in addition to a new generation facility at Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International. The new AED 128 billion airport will be five times the size of Dubai International, with the first phase to be completed in 10 years. When fully completed, Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International will consist of over 400 aircraft stands, with capacity to serve 260 million passengers annually. The expansion of Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International is not included in the study’s main impact results³; however, the construction project is expected to contribute an estimated AED 6.1 billion to Dubai’s GDP in 2030, as well as support 132,000 jobs.

The new airport and surrounding infrastructure will contribute to Dubai’s Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to strengthen the emirate’s trade and tourism footprint. D33’s progressive development plans also seek to make Dubai one of the most connected cities by adding 400 destinations to its foreign trade map, in addition to making it one of the top five logistics hubs in the world.

Aviation and tourism in Dubai

Aviation is also the driving force behind the growth of international tourism to Dubai. As one of the most frequented destinations in the world, visitors stayed an average of 3.8 nights in 2023⁴, spending an average of AED 4,300⁴ on hotels, restaurants, attractions and shopping. According to the report, international visitors flying to Dubai spent an estimated AED 66 billion last year.

In total, aviation-facilitated tourism spending is estimated to have contributed: AED 43 billion in gross value added, or 8.5% of Dubai’s GDP, supporting 329,000 jobs. More than half of GVA, AED 23 billion, was generated by those flying to Dubai with Emirates. Tourism to Dubai is projected to grow significantly over the next six years, with aviation-facilitated tourism spending expected to support AED 63 billion in gross value added, equivalent to 10% of Dubai’s projected GDP, as well as one in eight Dubai jobs.

The full Oxford Economics report ‘The Economic Impact of Aviation In Dubai’, can be found here

_{¹ Other aviation entities include flydubai, Dubai Duty Free, Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP), Dubai Police, Dubai Customs, Dubai Immigration, Dubai Air Navigation Services, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), and Dubai Aviation City Corporation.}

_{²Gross Value Added (GVA) is defined as the sum of compensation of employees and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA). It is also equal to revenue minus the cost of bought in goods and services used up to produce that revenue. Summed across all firms in an economy, and after small adjustments for taxes and subsidies, GVA is equal to GDP.}

_{³The Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) expansion announced in April 2024 is not included in the impact forecast. The DWC expansion would contribute an estimated AED 6.1 billion in gross value added to the economy in 2030, equivalent to 1.0% of Dubai’s forecasted GDP; and generate 132,000 jobs, equivalent to 3.7% of Dubai's employment in that year.}

_{^⁴ Based on Dubai Tourism 2023 Performance Report (link)}

beOnd, with its primary hub based at Velana International Airport in the Maldives, is one of the only airlines in the world to offer an all-business class service, catering to growing demand for premium travel, at increasingly affordable prices. Optional extras offered by the airline include chauffeur transfers, and airport lounge access, for enhanced passenger comfort. The carrier aims to serve 60 global destinations in the next five years, expanding its footprint further across Europe and Asia-Pacific.

dnata Representation Services has been appointed as general sales agent (GSA) for the airline in the UAE, with its team now providing a full range of travel services for beOnd customers flying to and from Dubai. Local infrastructure has been established for enhanced sales, marketing, and distribution support, to cater to current demand and future routes.

Simon Woodford, Vice President Global Air Services at dnata Travel Group, commented: “Across dnata Travel Group brands, we continue to see increased demand for business and first-class travel from the UAE. We are delighted to partner with beOnd as the airline’s premium offering enhances connectivity from Dubai to popular leisure travel destinations. Luxurious getaways to the paradise islands of the Maldives, at a convenient four-hour flight time, remain in demand year-round, whilst seasonally Zurich offers an escape to nature or a gateway to world-class skiing.”

Dhaz Hunjan, CCO of beOnd, added: “We look forward to establishing the unique, private-jet style experience that beOnd offers travellers from Dubai, working with dnata. With a long track record of local excellence, its team understands our vision to deliver a luxury experience unlike any other between the UAE and Maldives, and destinations further afield. We have been very pleased with the reception to our new routes so far, established in response to market feedback, and our customers can now benefit from additional services dnata provides.”

Travellers from the UAE with beOnd can experience its business class only cabin with all-lie-flat configuration, gourmet dining, and luxurious amenities. beOnd is now operating four flights per week from Dubai (DWC) to the Maldives (MLE), and two flights per week between Dubai (DWC) and Zurich (ZRH), with return fares starting from AED 7,429 per ticket to Male and AED 8,100 per ticket to Zurich.

Explore more on beOnd and latest available flights from Dubai to the Maldives, Zurich, and beyond, at www.flybeond.com. Learn more about dnata Representation Services and its GCC-based airline services at www.dnata.com/travel.

-ends

About dnata Representation Services

dnata Representation Services, part of the dnata Travel Group, is the global representation services partner of choice by multiple airlines, hotels, transport, and tourism board partners worldwide. Part of dnata, one of the world’s largest air and travel services providers, with its long-standing history in the region and strong brand presence globally, dnata Representation Services provides a comprehensive range of sales, marketing and commercial services to its partners including operations and infrastructure support. With its global reach, robust distribution network, world-class technology infrastructure, regional retail footprint (dnata Travel), Contact Centre services, and more, dnata Representation Services ensures its partners long-established industry expertise, and unrivalled local knowledge and support in the GCC and beyond. Find out more, at www.dnata.com/travel.

About beOnd

beOnd is the world’s first premium leisure airline offering unique and tailored experiences for today’s modern travellers. beOnd will initiate flights from a variety of destinations with the latest aviation and luxury travel innovations.

Dubai, UAE, 26^th September 2024: dnata Travel has reported a 21% increase in the average booking value for in-store services in 2024 compared to the previous year. Walk-in services at its 13 retail outlets across the UAE remain the most popular way for residents to book travel, driven by a rise in demand for more complex itineraries.

This summer, multi-location trips across Europe were particularly popular, combining train and self-drive travel. France, Italy and Switzerland were frequently included in these itineraries, which featured multiple stops across one or several countries. Tailor-made itineraries in Asia also gained traction throughout the year, with bookings typically including multiple stops within a single country. Hotspots across Thailand and Sri Lanka are especially sought after, with a notable spike in demand for Vietnam compared to previous years.

Cruise itineraries, offering multiple stops across different countries, are also seeing steady growth, with dnata Travel anticipating even higher demand as the GCC cruise season approaches this winter. 

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, commented: “Multi-destination itineraries are trending, as travellers look to experience the best of a region or country in one extended trip.

“Many of our customers prefer to book these complex journeys in-store, where our travel experts can provide personalised advice on destinations, hotels and the latest offers. We offer a one-stop solution, where travellers can book everything from flights and hotels to car rentals, tours and insurance.

“One of the highest value in-store bookings in 2024 was a summer trip across France, taking in Paris and Cannes, then on to Monaco. Our travel experts arranged the flights, accommodation, private transport and guided tours, all with a fashion theme, in one sitting. This luxurious itinerary featured some of the finest destinations, experiences, and resorts in our portfolio.”

Looking ahead to winter season, dnata Travel expects continued demand for multi-destination trips, particularly for festive market tours across cities like Budapest, Prague, Vienna and some of the major German cities, accessible by train. In-store enquiries for Japan have also surged, with travellers looking to combine skiing on the island of Hokkaido with visits to popular cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.

In-store bookings for ski holidays, which often require extra logistics, also rise in demand each winter. Popular at dnata Travel include Club Med’s all-inclusive packages across some of the world’s top winter sports destinations, offering ski and lift passes, beginner instructors and mountain guides for experienced skiers. Additionally, demand for Lapland trips is growing with customers interested in itineraries that offer Northern Lights tours, stays in ‘igloo’ hotels and scenic winter experiences for the ultimate holiday adventure.

The most popular dnata Travel retail stores for bookings in 2024 include Emirates Group Technology Centre (Deira), Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Deira City Centre, and Mirdif City Centre, respectively. Sitting just outside the ‘top five’ in terms of booking volumes, dnata Travel Dubai Hills Mall is the brand’s biggest growth story this year, fast becoming one of its highest performing stores in terms of booking value.

For more travel advice and inspiration, visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the UAE. Travellers can also access www.dnataTravel.com, or contact the dnata Travel experts via call or WhatsApp on 800 DNATA (36282), on social media @dnataTravel, or email at holidays@dnatatravel.com.

The Aviation Industry Awards celebrate the most innovative individuals and companies driving excellence in the UK's aviation sector.

Stewart Angus, dnata’s Regional CEO for Europe, who accepted the award on behalf of the company, said: “We are incredibly proud to receive this prestigious award, especially in such an important category. Being selected from a shortlist of leading aviation companies shows the real impact our teams are making through their hard work and dedication in reducing our environmental footprint. We will continue to work closely with our partners to drive a positive change in the aviation industry.”

Significant improvements across key performance metrics

dnata recently reported significant improvements across key environmental performance metrics for the financial year 2023-24. As a result of its consistent approach and initiatives, the company cut the carbon intensity of its operations by over 8%, 22% and 26% across its airport operations, travel and catering businesses, respectively. All data has been validated by Verifavia, an independent accredited environmental verification and auditing body.

Investing in renewable energy

dnata minimises emissions across its businesses using renewable energy where available, and in some markets, such as the UK and Ireland, it exclusively procures solar and wind energy. Most recently, it has installed solar panels across several facilities in Pakistan and the Philippines to avoid consuming fossil-fuel powered electricity. 

Transforming fleet

dnata also consistently invests in its modern fleet to improve environmental efficiency. Its fleet strategy commits to phasing out diesel-operated engines and switching to hybrid, electric, or hydrogen wherever airports have provided the necessary infrastructure. As a result of its investments in recent years, 65% of dnata’s fleet is now electric in the Netherlands, 44% in Italy, 40% in the UK, and 39% in Switzerland.

Minimising fuel consumption with the latest technologies and training

dnata maintains a strong focus on minimising fuel consumption. It monitors the consumption of fuel across its fleet of ground support equipment (GSE) using Vehicle Tracking Management systems; conducts logistics mapping exercises to ensure minimal distances are travelled airside; and optimises shifts and parking slots to avoid excessive fuel burn.

In addition, it tracks the behaviour of drivers, including vehicle idling times, and has key performance indicators linked to the environmental management system. dnata promotes more responsible driver behaviour through education, awareness and training.

Engaging with alternative fuel suppliers

dnata actively engages with biofuel suppliers to reduce emissions. Several of dnata’s businesses have already deployed low carbon alternatives to replace diesel: in Schiphol airport, it has replaced over 674,000 litres with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO100) in the previous financial year. 

Most recently, it has transitioned its entire non-electric fleet to biodiesel at the two Dubai airports, Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum - Dubai World Central (DWC).

Reducing waste to landfill

dnata actively minimises waste across its operations through consistent initiatives. Its catering & retail teams are working closely with many of its airline customers to analyse consumption trends and use predictive data to optimise the loading of F&B for in-flight catering. Analysis of on-board data not only reduces food waste but also fuel burn associated with carrying excess weight.

dnata has also taken further initiatives across its business units to recycle materials. Its cargo businesses have implemented circular economy principles to repurpose plastics into materials for other industries. Meanwhile, several of its catering businesses eliminated single-use plastics across their operations.

For the remainder of the summer, dnata Travel’s most popular destinations for international travel from the UAE remain consistent with trends reported from early in the season, with Thailand, Maldives, Turkey, UK, and Mauritius seeing most demand. Other destinations with cooler temperatures across Europe are also popular, alongside the winter landscapes of New Zealand and South Africa.

The travel agency is supporting thousands of travellers with last-minute requests online at dnataTravel.com and across its 14 UAE-based retail outlets, with the dnata Travel stores in Dubai Hills Mall, Mercato Mall, and Dubai Mall witnessing highest demand for walk-in bookings.

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, commented: “Travellers are seeking to make the most of last-minute offers this summer, either for a final getaway before the schools start or to enjoy a retreat before the season ends. Many are opting for European escapes where summer is in full swing, offering sun-filled days to explore vibrant cities or relax on beautiful beaches. For those seeking cooler weather, late winter in South Africa and New Zealand is trending. Thailand and the Indian Ocean also remain popular, offering excellent rates and with a wider spread of locations being booked from the UAE than ever before.”

dnata Travel experts continuously monitor trends and work with long-standing international partners to offer exclusive rates and added extras for the local market, alongside the latest in travel inspiration. The travel agency’s summer campaign includes last-minute travel bookings across trending beach and city breaks across the globe.

Highlight holiday offers with savings and added extras include in locations trending for summer 2024, the Maldives, Thailand, and Mauritius. In the ever-popular Maldives, a dnata Travel summer holiday package includes a three-night stay in a Water Villa with Pool and Slide at the 5-star Siyam World Maldives, with 20% savings on a travellers’ stay. Access to the resort's premium, 24/7 All-Inclusive package is also included, alongside return domestic flight transfers, and return economy class flights, from AED 8,595 per person.

To explore trending destinations from the UAE with dnata Travel, visit www.dnataTravel.com. For more travel advice and inspiration, contact the dnata Travel experts via call or WhatsApp on 800 DNATA (36282), on social media @dnataTravel, email holidays@dnatatravel.com, or visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the UAE.

For July and August, dnata Travel’s most popular destinations for international travel from the UAE are Thailand, Maldives, Mauritius, Turkey, and the UK, respectively. Compared to trends released earlier this summer, Mauritius has emerged to enter the ‘top three’ most-booked holiday destinations. Across summer 2024, the island country is one of the fastest-growing holiday locations for dnata’s travellers, alongside Germany and Malaysia.

International trips are on the agenda for this popular time for summer travel, dominating a 90% majority of overall bookings this year, compared to 10% for UAE staycations. In comparison, the split was reported by dnata Travel experts as 65% international and 35% staycations over the Eid al-Adha break for 2024, with demand for outbound travel witnessing a significant increase.

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, commented: “International travel is in high demand this summer, with destinations including Mauritius, Malaysia, and Germany witnessing some of the strongest growth we’ve seen this year. Mauritius and Malaysia offer the chance to stay on world-class beaches and in exceptional resorts at affordable prices. Kuala Lumpur is also a popular destination in Asia for a city break for its impressive skyline, and opportunities for shopping and dining. Meanwhile, Germany’s vibrant cities are popular this month, as travellers seek to soak up the action of the UEFA European Football Championship, taking place across the country.”

dnata Travel experts continuously monitor trends and work with long-standing international partners to offer exclusive rates and added extras for the local market, alongside the latest in travel inspiration. The travel agency’s summer campaign includes last-minute travel bookings across trending beach and city breaks across the globe.

Highlight offers include holidays in popular summer destinations Thailand, Maldives, Mauritius, and Turkey. A top offer in the trending destination of Thailand includes a three-night stay at the 5-star Pimalai Resort and Spa, Krabi on Full Board with complimentary extras including an excursion, a spa treatment for adults, and activity for kids, in addition to return flights and airport transfers, from AED 4,000 per person.

To explore trending holiday destinations from the UAE with dnata Travel, visit www.dnataTravel.com. For more travel advice and inspiration, contact the dnata Travel experts via call or WhatsApp on 800 DNATA (36282), on social media @dnataTravel, email holidays@dnatatravel.com, or visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the UAE.

As a result of its consistent investments in renewable infrastructure, equipment, training and alternative fuel options, the company achieved significant improvements across key environmental performance metrics in the recently ended financial year. 

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “It’s encouraging to see the tangible impact of our global investments and initiatives on our environmental performance.

“While we keep a laser focus on sustainability in every decision we make, we recognise that achieving meaningful results requires a collective effort and flexible approach from multiple stakeholders. In some cases, the availability of alternative fuels such as electric and biofuels is moving slower than we would like. We will continue to actively engage with our partners to explore and implement practical solutions that enable us to replace energy sources with lower carbon alternatives and minimise waste sent to landfills.”

Significant improvements across key performance metrics

dnata’s ground handling, cargo, travel, and catering & retail businesses measure direct and indirect emissions related to the number of flight turnarounds and revenue to enable comparison and year-on-year improvement.

In the financial year 2023-24*, dnata’s environmental data has been externally verified by Verifavia.  dnata’s carbon intensity measured in kilograms of CO₂ equivalent emissions per aircraft turnaround has reduced by 8.4%** for its ground handling and cargo businesses. Meanwhile, its carbon intensity measured in grams of CO₂ equivalent emissions compared to revenue for catering and travel businesses has reduced by 26.3%** and 22.5%**, respectively. 

Furthermore, the company diverted 65%** of waste from landfill across its operations globally. 

Investing in renewable energy

dnata minimises emissions across its businesses using renewable energy where available, and in some markets, such as the UK and Ireland, it exclusively procures solar and wind energy. Most recently, it has installed solar panels across several facilities in Pakistan and the Philippines to avoid consuming fossil-fuel powered electricity. 

Transforming fleet

dnata also consistently invests in its modern fleet to improve environmental efficiency. Its fleet strategy commits to phasing out diesel-operated engines and switching to hybrid, electric, or hydrogen wherever airports have provided the necessary infrastructure. As a result of its investments in recent years, 65% of dnata’s fleet is now electric in the Netherlands, 44% in Italy, 40% in the UK, and 39% in Switzerland.

Minimising fuel consumption with the latest technologies and training

dnata maintains a strong focus on minimising fuel consumption. It monitors the consumption of fuel across its fleet of ground support equipment (GSE) using Vehicle Tracking Management systems; conducts logistics mapping exercises to ensure minimal distances are travelled airside; and optimises shifts and parking slots to avoid excessive fuel burn.

In addition, it tracks the behaviour of drivers, including idling times, and has key performance indicators linked to the environmental management system. dnata promotes more responsible driver behaviour through education, awareness and training.

Engaging with alternative fuel suppliers

dnata actively engages with biofuel suppliers to reduce emissions. Several of dnata’s businesses have already deployed low carbon alternatives to replace diesel: in Schiphol airport, it has replaced over 674,000 litres with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO100) in the previous financial year.

Besides, the company now uses a blend of biofuel across its landside fleets in dnata logistics, City Sightseeing Tours, Arabian Adventures, and Alpha Flight Services in the UAE. This transition to biofuel has contributed to emissions reductions of about 2,200 tonnes of CO₂ over the lifecycle of the fuel.

Reducing waste to landfill

dnata actively minimises waste across its operations through consistent initiatives. Its catering & retail teams are working closely with many of its airline customers to analyse consumption trends and use predictive data to optimise the loading of F&B for in-flight catering. Analysis of on-board data not only reduces food waste but also fuel burn associated with carrying excess weight.

dnata has also taken further initiatives across its business units to recycle materials. Its cargo businesses have implemented circular economy principles to repurpose plastics into materials for other industries. Meanwhile, several of its catering businesses eliminated single-use plastics across their operations.

IATA’s IEnvA Certification

In September 2023, dnata became the first combined air services provider to receive the International Air Transport Association’ (IATA) environmental management certification as a recognition of its unwavering commitment to sustainability across its diverse portfolio of businesses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).  

* The financial year 2023-24 started on 1 April 2023 and ended on 31 March 2024.

**In the financial year 2023-24, compared to the financial year 2022-23 (ended on 31 March 2023). For more information, visit: Emirates Group Annual Report 2023-24.

Other, key opportunities in focus for the Sri Lankan market and dnata Travel Group brands at Horizon: Sri Lanka will include:

• Multi-centre holidays: Positioning Sri Lanka as part of wider, multi-centre trip planning, to capitalise on strong customer demand across dnata Travel Group brands for destinations such as Dubai and the Maldives, all accessible and serviced by Emirates.
• Niche market segments: Promoting Sri Lanka’s diverse range of products which can attract various niche segments such as sustainability, eco-tourism, and wellness.
• Luxury segment growth: Using latest technology to connect with smaller boutique hotels to market and support further growth of the luxury segment.
• New source markets: As emerging markets seek out new beach destinations, seek potential opportunities for new source market entries to Sri Lanka.
• Optimise sourcing and distribution: Using the most suitable contracting method for each product, and to optimise distribution through the dnata Travel Group’s various brands and channels.  

Organised by the dnata Travel Group in partnership with Emirates Holidays, senior representatives from the tour operating arm of Dubai-based Emirates airline will also attend the event to reveal latest plans relevant to the travel industry in Sri Lanka. It will take place on 3^rd June 2024 at Shangri-La Colombo. 

To find out more, please contact: Dilakshan Perera at Aitken Spence, on: Dilakshan@aitkenspence.lk. Read on for more about the dnata Travel Group and its range of international travel brands, at: www.dnata.com/travel.

An ever-popular destination for UAE-based travellers, the Maldives is witnessing significant growth compared to the same period in 2023, with bookings up an impressive 108% between June and September 2024. Travel experts at dnata attribute this increase to a notable number of hotel openings, with traveller bookings spread across its new and established private island resorts.

The USA is also witnessing a substantial growth in travel bookings from the UAE, entering the ‘top three’ most popular locations for a summer break for local travellers this year.

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure UAE at dnata Travel, commented: “UAE-based travellers are exploring more of the world, including a variety of new locations across popular hotspots. Between 2020 and 2024, several new resorts are bringing more to discover across the islands of the Maldives, and this year our travellers are making the most of trying somewhere new.

“Other, ever-popular destinations, Thailand, Turkey, and the UK, are also seeing travellers taking in more across their varied landscapes and attractions, whilst the USA is an exciting new entry for 2024. Travellers are escaping across the country, with the cities of Los Angeles and New York proving most popular.”

Across the summer so far, 65% of bookings with dnata Travel are for international destinations, while the remaining 35% cover UAE staycations. Most bookings are for Eid al-Adha, where dnata Travel is witnessing a 40% increase in travel bookings, compared to the wider summer months.

dnata Travel experts continuously monitor trends and work with long-standing international partners to offer exclusive rates and added extras for the local market, alongside the latest in travel inspiration. The travel agency’s summer campaign is now live, offering up to 35% savings for UAE travellers across trending beach stays and city breaks across the globe.

Highlight offers include in Thailand, Bali, Maldives, and Hong Kong. A top offer in the trending destination of Thailand includes a four-night stay at the 5-star Angsana Laguna Phuket on Half-Board with savings on your stay, complimentary meals for kids, benefits for honeymooners, and return flights, from AED 5,200 per person.

To explore trending holiday destinations from the UAE with dnata Travel, visit www.dnataTravel.com. For more travel advice and inspiration, contact the dnata Travel experts via call or WhatsApp on 800 DNATA (36282), on social media @dnataTravel, email holidays@dnatatravel.com, or visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the UAE.

Both Emirates and dnata saw significant profit and revenue increases in 2023-24, as the Group expanded its operations around the world to meet strong customer demand for its high-quality products and services.

For the financial year ended 31 March 2024, the Emirates Group posted a record profit of AED 18.7 billion (US$ 5.1 billion), up 71% compared with an AED 10.9 billion (US$ 3.0 billion) profit for last year. The Group’s revenue was AED 137.3 billion (US$ 37.4 billion), an increase of 15% over last year’s results. The Group’s cash balance was AED 47.1 billion (US$ 12.8 billion), the highest ever reported, up 11% from last year.  

Combined Group profits for the last 2 years, at AED 29.6 billion, surpass pandemic losses of AED 25.9 billion during 2020-2022.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group said: “The Emirates Group has once again raised the bar to deliver a new record performance. Throughout the year, we saw high demand for air transport and travel related services around the world, and because we were able to move quickly to deliver what customers want, we achieved tremendous results. We are reaping the benefit of years of non-stop investments in our products and services, in building strong partnerships, and in the capabilities of our talented people.

“Huge credit is also due to the UAE’s visionary leaders, especially HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It is thanks to their leadership and the nation’s progressive policies that the Emirates Group is able to flourish. Both Emirates and dnata have forged successful business models leveraging Dubai’s unique advantages, in turn generating enormous value for Dubai and the communities they serve around the world.” 

HH Sheikh Ahmed added: “The Group’s excellent financial standing today places us in a strong position for future growth and success. It enables us to invest to deliver even better products, services, and more value to our customers and stakeholders.” 

Many major projects are already underway, including: a multibillion-dollar aircraft fleet and cabin renewal programme; new catering, cargo, and ground handling capabilities; advanced technologies to support the Group’s operations; expanded training and people development programmes; and initiatives to progress the Group’s sustainability agenda.

In 2023-24, the Group collectively invested AED 8.8 billion (US$ 2.4 billion) in new aircraft, facilities, equipment, companies, and the latest technologies to support its growth plans.

The Group’s total workforce grew by 10% to 112,406 employees, its largest size ever, as Emirates and dnata continued recruitment activity around the world to support its expanding operations and bolster its future capabilities.

The Group took significant strides in its sustainability journey during 2023-24, putting into action numerous initiatives focussed on the environment, its people, customers, and communities.

Environmental topics were high on the agenda during the year, as the UAE hosted the world’s biggest conference for climate action, COP28, in Dubai.

In 2023-24, Emirates signed new supply agreements to uplift sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at its Dubai hub for the very first time, and also in Amsterdam and Singapore. The airline operated the first A380 demonstration flight using 100% SAF in one engine, collecting data to support industry efforts to enable a future of 100% SAF flying.

Recognising that airlines today have the limited viable solutions to meaningfully reduce carbon emissions, Emirates established a US$ 200 million fund to support R&D projects that focus on reducing the impact of fossil fuels in commercial aviation. It also became a founding entity of Air-CRAFT, a UAE-based research consortium for renewable and advanced aviation fuels; and joined The Solent Cluster, a UK initiative focused on producing low-carbon fuels for a variety of sectors, including aviation.

dnata continued to invest and induct more electric and hybrid vehicles to its global fleet of ground support equipment (GSE), adding new baggage tractors, cargo loaders, and pushback tractors to its USA operations. It also converted and refurbished diesel-powered GSEs in Italy to run on Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil and electric power. dnata’s UAE businesses including dnata logistics, Arabian Adventures, Alpha Flight Services and City Sightseeing Worldwide, transitioned to biofuel for its landside fleet of vehicles.

During the year, dnata became the first combined air services provider to receive the International Air Transport Association’s environmental management (IEnvA) certification for its commitment to sustainability across its UAE businesses; and Emirates achieved IEnvA Stage One and the IEnvA Illegal Wildlife Trade module certifications, for its efforts in environmental stewardship and anti-wildlife trafficking.

The Group ramped up investments in people development, rolling out a comprehensive programme of learning and training options for its workforce in partnership with top universities and key industry partners. A Gender Balance Council was established to champion and promote gender equality within the Group.

The Emirates Group has expanded its ESG reporting in its latest 2023-24 report and are adopting aspects of the GRI standards. It plans to evolve its reporting to meet ISSB and CSRD requirements in the coming years[1].

Sheikh Ahmed said: “We enter our 2024-25 financial year on strong foundations for continued growth. Emirates will receive delivery of 10 new A350 aircraft in 2024-25, adding to our fleet mix and supporting the next phase of its network growth. dnata will continue to leverage synergies and scale across its business divisions to grow its footprint and capabilities. In tandem, we are investing resources to minimise our environmental impact, develop our people, look after our customers and the communities we serve.”

“The business outlook is positive, and we expect customer demand for air transport and travel to remain strong in the coming months. As always, we will keep a close watch on costs and external factors such as oil prices, currency fluctuations, and volatile environments caused by socio-political changes. Our business model has been tested before, and I am confident in our resilience and ability to respond quickly to opportunities and challenges.”

He added: “Looking further ahead, the Dubai government has announced plans to start the next phase of expansion at Al Maktoum International Airport, which will eventually be the new hub for Emirates and dnata’s operations. This AED 128 billion (US$ 35 billion) investment will significantly expand and enhance Dubai’s aviation and logistics infrastructure, supporting the city’s growth, and Emirates’ and dnata’s growth.

dnata performance

dnata increased its profit by 330% to AED 1.4 billion (US$ 387 million) in 2023-24, reporting solid results across its business divisions.

dnata's total revenue increased by 29% to hit a new record of AED 19.2 billion (US$ 5.2 billion), driven by increased flight and travel activity across the world. dnata’s international businesses account for 75% of its revenue, an increase of 3%pts from the previous year. Through the year, dnata won new customer contracts across its divisions, and worked closely with its customers to support increased flight activity and travel demand especially in its major markets: Australia, Europe, the UAE, UK, and US.  

Laying the foundations for future growth, dnata’s investments in 2023-24 amounted to AED 464 million (US$ 126 million). Significant investments during the year included: new electric and hybrid ground support equipment for its airport operations as part of its environmental strategy, and the expansion of marhaba operations in the Philippines, Italy, and the UAE.

In 2023-24, dnata’s operating costs increased by 22% to AED 17.8 billion (US$ 4.8 billion), in line with expanded operations in its Airport Operations, Catering & Retail, and Travel divisions, as well as continued inflationary pressure across all markets mainly for labour and food supply.

dnata’s cash balance declined by AED 958 million to AED 4.2 billion (US$ 1.1 billion), primarily due to AED 2 billion (US$ 545 million) in dividend payments to its owner, ICD, plus the funding of investments and debt repayments. The business saw a positive operating cash flow of AED 1.9 billion (US$ 507 million) in 2023-24, a reflection of the substantial improvements in revenue.

Revenue from dnata’s Airport Operations, including ground and cargo handling increased to AED 8.8 billion (US$ 2.4 billion).

The number of aircraft turns handled by dnata globally grew by 9% to 778,026; and cargo handled increased by 5% to 2.9 million tonnes, reflecting new contracts won, and increased flight activity by dnata’s airline customers across markets.

During 2023-24, dnata continued to invest in infrastructure and the latest technologies to respond to customer needs.  It integrated autonomous drones into its UAE operations, implemented AI-powered solutions in Singapore, and continued to roll out One Cargo, its advanced cargo management system globally. dnata also announced it will expand operations into Rome Fiumicino Airport where its majority-owned subsidiary, Airport Handling, won a seven-year ground handling license. To support this new operation, dnata will invest €20 million in new and advanced ground equipment.

dnata’s Catering & Retail business accounted for AED 6.5 billion (US$ 1.8 billion) of dnata’s revenue, up by 35%. The inflight catering business uplifted 123.0 million meals to airline customers, a 10% increase from last year, as its airline customers across the world restored and expanded their flight operations.

The division expanded its customer base in key markets with notable contract wins in 2023-24 including from: Sri Lankan Airlines and Turkish Airlines in Australia (Sydney and Melbourne), China Airlines in the Czech Republic (Prague), JetBlue in Ireland (Dublin), Biman Bangladeshi Airlines in Italy (Rome Fiumicino), Royal Jordanian in the UK (London Stansted), and Etihad Airways in the US (Boston). It also extended its airport retail network with new F&B outlets at Romania’s Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport, and Sharjah Airport in the UAE.

Revenue from dnata’s Travel Services division grew by 48% to AED 3.5 billion (US$ 951 million), with strong contributions from Destination Asia, its destination management business in Asia, and Imagine Cruising, a cruise holidays business in which dnata has acquired a majority stake.  Total transaction value (TTV) of travel services sold increased by 27% to AED 8.9 billion (US$ 2.4 billion), reflecting the division’s ability to deliver relevant products to meet strong demand across B2B and B2C travel segments globally.

In 2023-24, dnata’s travel division forged agreements with new tourism entities, hospitality brands, and other partners to expand its portfolio of travel products, services, and solutions. This includes a strategic partnership with AMEX GBT which doubled the size of its corporate travel business in the Middle East.

Emirates performance

Emirates’ total passenger and cargo capacity increased by 20% to 57.7 billion ATKMs in 2023-24, recovering to near pre-pandemic levels.

Providing customers with more connection options, Emirates restarted services to Tokyo Haneda, added capacity to 29 destinations, and launched new daily flights to Montreal, Canada. Emirates also inked codeshare and interline agreements with 11 new airline partners, further extending its network’s reach. By 31 March 2024, the Emirates network comprised 151 destinations across six continents, including 10 cities served by its freighter fleet only. 

Emirates brought its flagship A380 and popular Premium Economy product to even more cities this year, as 16 more aircraft rolled out of its US$ 2 billion cabin retrofit programme, fully refurbished with the airline’s latest signature products. As of 31 March 2024, the Emirates A380 served 49 destinations, and customers could enjoy Emirates’ Premium Economy experience to and from 15 cities around the world.

Total fleet count at the end of March was 260 units, with an average fleet age of 10.1 years. 

Emirates’ order book stands at 310 aircraft, after it announced orders worth US$ 58 billion combined, for 110 additional units of Boeing 777s, 787s, and Airbus A350s at the 2023 Dubai Airshow. These new generation widebody aircraft will replace older jets and support fleet growth, aligning with the airline’s long-standing commitment to fly modern aircraft that are efficient to operate, and able to offer customers the latest inflight comforts and experiences.

With increased capacity deployment and strong demand across markets, Emirates’ total revenue for the financial year increased 13% to AED 121.2 billion (US$ 33.0 billion). Currency fluctuations and devaluations in some of the airline’s major markets, notably the Pakistani Rupee, Egyptian Pound, and Indian Rupee, negatively impacted the airline’s profitability by AED 2.0 billion (US$ 0.6 billion).

The airline saw an operating cash flow of AED 37.6 billion (US$ 10.3 billion) in 2023-24, underpinning its strong commercial results and enabling the airline to grow the business going forward.

Total operating costs increased by 8% from last financial year. Cost of ownership (depreciation and amortisation) and fuel cost were the airline’s two biggest cost components in 2023-24, followed by employee cost. Fuel accounted for 34% of operating costs compared to 36% in 2022-23. The airline’s fuel bill increased slightly to AED 34.2 billion (US$ 9.3 billion) compared to AED 33.7 billion (US$ 9.2 billion) the previous year, with a higher uplift of 24% due to increased flying being balanced by a lower average fuel price (down 18%) including hedging gains.

Driven by the voracious appetite for travel across customer segments, the strength of its global network, and the appeal of its products, the airline hit a new record profit of AED 17.2 billion (US$ 4.7 billion) exceeding last year’s AED 10.6 billion (US$ 2.9 billion) result, with an exceptional profit margin of 14.2%, marking it the best performance in the airline’s history.

Emirates carried 51.9 million passengers (up 19%) in 2023-24, with seat capacity up by 21%. The airline reports a Passenger Seat Factor of 79.9%, rising from 79.5% last year. Passenger yield declined 2% to 36.6 fils (10.0 US cents) per Revenue Passenger Kilometre (RPKM), due to a change in cabin and route mix, fares and currency.  

Emirates continued to invest in delivering ever better customer experiences. During the year, it invested AED 30 million to uplift its dedicated Emirates Lounges with refreshed facilities reopening to serve premium customers and frequent flyers in Brisbane, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Manchester and Munich. Emirates restored its signature Chauffeur Drive service to 82 cities across its network and introduced this complimentary offering to premium customers in Indonesia, Morocco, and Turkey.

The airline also implemented a slew of inflight enhancements from menus and amenities to entertainment content, key amongst which, were the launch of complimentary loungewear and meal pre-ordering in Business Class.

Emirates SkyCargo reaffirmed its position in global air logistics and trade, carrying 2.2 million tonnes of goods around the world in 2023-24, up 18% from the previous year, as increased passenger operations expanded available cargo capacity, and the leasing of three 747 freighters during the year unlocked immediate capacity to serve demand on busy routes. This reflects the high customer demand for its specialist logistics solutions, the reach and connectivity of Emirates’ global network, Dubai’s world-class sea-air hub capabilities, and the fruits of Emirates SkyCargo’s ongoing investments in digital technology, infrastructure, and products.

Despite continued challenges in global logistics, the cargo division reported a solid revenue of AED 13.6 billion (US$ 3.7 billion), contributing 11% to the airline’s total revenue. Cargo yield per Freight Tonne Kilometre (FTKM) declined by 32%, returning to pre-pandemic marketplace levels.  

During the year, it launched Emirates Vital and Emirates Medical Devices, two purpose-built cargo solutions to serve the unique requirements of the life sciences and healthcare sector. It also launched Emirates Delivers in Kuwait to connect shoppers there with e-commerce brands in the UK, the US, and the UAE. Emirates Delivers is poised to scale significantly in the coming years, focussing on markets underserved by business-to-consumer delivery solutions.

At the end of 2023-24, Emirates’ SkyCargo’s total freighter fleet stood at 11 Boeing 777Fs. The cargo division expects delivery of its 5 additional Boeing 777Fs on order from mid-2024.

Under Emirates Group companies and subsidiaries, Emirates Flight Catering and MMI/Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR) reported notable results in 2023-24.

Emirates Flight Catering hit record revenues of AED 970 million (US$ 264 million) from its external customers, driven by traffic growth at Dubai’s airports. It supplied 76.9 million meals to airline customers, 19% more than the previous year, and saw rising demand for its other ancillary businesses including at Linencraft, its laundry facility which primarily serves airline and hospitality clients.

MMI/ELR revenue surged 18% to AED 2.9 billion (US$ 796 million), as it expanded UAE operations to meet growing wholesale and retail demand driven by the booming tourism sector. ELR recorded record sales growth globally, with strong contributions from its key markets of the UAE, the US and Australia.

Emirates’ hotels portfolio revenue over last year decreased by 2% to AED 660 million (US$ 180 million), reflecting the temporary closure of its Wolgan Valley resort in Australia.   

With another year of strong performance, Emirates continued to meet all its regular aircraft-related payment obligations and repaid an additional AED 2.2 billion (US$ 596 million) from the AED 17.5 billion (US$ 4.8 billion) borrowed during the COVID-19 crisis. This substantially reduced its overall outstanding debt profile and places the airline on a strong foundation for financing for its future growth and the new fleet acquisition programme.

In response to the challenges posed by volatile fuel markets during the financial year, Emirates deployed simple forwards and options across different products such as brent and jet fuel to reduce current year costs as well as secure significant future hedging volumes. In addition, it largely mitigated the impact of the higher interest rate regime on the results with effective management of the net exposure. Emirates continued with its balanced approach to managing the foreign exchange rate risk through use of currency options, forward contracts, and natural hedges. The methodical approach allowed improved predictability of its cashflows against volatile market shifts, thereby enhancing financial stability.

Emirates closed the financial year with its highest-ever level of cash assets at AED 42.9 billion (US$ 11.7 billion), 15% higher compared to 31 March 2023.   

The full 2023-24 Annual Report of the Emirates Group – comprising Emirates, dnata and their subsidiaries – is available at: www.theemiratesgroup.com/annualreport

-ENDS-

US$ figures are converted at 1US$ = 3.67AED and are based on the AED figures rounded off in millions.

[1] Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), and Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) are internationally recognised standards for corporate reporting on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) data and initiatives.

The official tourism authority of Austria’s capital is revealing record-high hotel booking figures from GCC travellers in 2023, at more than 400,000 across the year. In the first two months of 2024, the tourism entity notably saw an increase of 70% in room nights from Saudi Arabia compared to the same period last year, ranking it number one in the region in terms for stays in Vienna, followed closely by the UAE.

In the wake of record-high accommodation bookings and increased flight connectivity, the Vienna Tourist Board aims to work with one of the GCC region’s longest-serving travel providers to target its resident travellers for luxury stays across the city year-round in 2024.

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure at dnata Travel, commented: “Vienna, at just over a five-hour flight time from Dubai and other GCC hotspots, is increasing in popularity from the region, as travel to Europe continues to trend. Vienna shines in the summer with pleasant temperatures perfect to explore its outdoor attractions, while it offers truly magical travel experiences in the winter with unique festive markets, and as a gateway to snow-capped adventures in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.”

Working in partnership, dnata Travel and the Vienna Tourist Board aim to showcase the best of Vienna for summer and winter travel to GCC travellers through exclusive rates, latest news and more, with a focus on luxury hotels across the city’s most popular hotspots. From dnata’s broad portfolio of hotels in Vienna, properties recommended for travel in summer 2024 include the stylish Meliá Vienna, palace-style The Amauris Vienna – Relais & Châteaux, the boutique Almanac Palais Vienna and luxurious Rosewood Vienna.

Christina Freisleben, International B2B Relations – Middle East at the Vienna Tourist Board, added: “Vienna is an ideal gateway to Europe for couples, families, and individual adventurers from the GCC. The city is celebrated for its stunning architecture, cultural wealth, and vibrant arts scene including more than 100 museums and galleries. Its culinary landscape is as diverse as its art, featuring the UNESCO heritage Vienna coffeehouse culture, traditional dishes like Sacher-Torte, and a modern dining scene with Michelin-starred restaurants.”

A current summer offer to Vienna with dnata Travel includes a four-night, five-star stay at the Meliá Vienna with daily breakfast, return flights and private airport transfers, from AED 5,575 per person.

To explore more on Vienna and dnata Travel’s latest holiday packages for travel to the trending European city, with flights and transfers included, access www.dnataTravel.com, or visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the GCC.

-ends

Notes for editors

dnata Travel x Vienna Tourist Board – Summer 2024 holiday packages

Meliá Vienna 
Stay four nights at the five-star Meliá Vienna with dnata Travel in a Meliá Standard Room with daily breakfast and return flights, from AED 5,575 per person.

The Amauris Vienna – Relais & Châteaux
Stay four nights at the five-star The Amauris Vienna – Relais & Châteaux with dnata Travel in a Superior Room with daily breakfast and return flights, from AED 8,050 per person.

Almanac Palais Vienna 
Stay four nights at the five-star Almanac Palais Vienna with dnata Travel in an Almanac Room with daily breakfast and return flights, from AED 8,790 per person.

Rosewood Vienna
Stay four nights at the five-star Rosewood Vienna with dnata Travel in a Premier Room with daily breakfast and return flights, from AED 11,620 per person.

With a growing presence across the GCC, dnata Travel has consistently reported the UK as one of the top ten international travel destinations for its travellers since its inception 65 years ago. As part of its new campaign with VisitBritain, dnata Travel is launching bespoke packages and rates focused on the themes of its research – including cities, coast and countryside, and multi-destination travel itineraries – ahead of the peak summer travel period.

Based on VisitBritain research conducted in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Britain was perceived as the top mid to long-haul destination for travellers – leading the USA, France, Italy, and Switzerland. VisitBritain’s research also shows that visitors from the GCC market rate Britain highly for having ‘beautiful coasts and countryside to explore,’ ‘a thriving arts and contemporary culture scene’, ‘a place where I can explore history and heritage’, and as ‘good for seeing famous sites and places’.

Meerah Ketait, Head of Retail and Leisure at dnata Travel, commented: “The UK has always represented one of our most popular international destinations for GCC travellers, including across the summer months of 2023. London has typically been the destination of choice, so we are excited to bring a different side of the UK closer to our travellers this year based on VisitBritain’s research findings. The launch of the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is also a huge benefit for GCC nationals – making travel to the UK more accessible than ever before.”

Carol Maddison, Deputy Director Middle East, and Asia at VisitBritain, added: “The GCC is a very important visitor source market for the UK with visitors forecast to spend £3 billion this year. With the launch of the ETA and strong airline capacity, travel to the UK is more affordable, accessible, and seamless for visitors from the Gulf. Working with dnata Travel, we are highlighting the breadth of exciting experiences and destinations waiting for GCC visitors here in Britain, not just in London but across the nations and regions. From surfing along our wild coastlines to experiencing our breathtaking landscapes or our bustling, vibrant cities, we’re showing that there is always more to explore in Britain.”

Taking on board the findings from VisitBritain’s extensive GCC-based research over recent years, dnata Travel’s new UK travel itineraries focus on:

• Wild coastlines and charming countryside, including the Lake District, Northumberland, and the Cotswolds in England, as well as highlights of the Scottish Highlands.
• Arts and culture, from Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-Upon-Avon to a tour of Liverpool, a UNESCO City of Music and home of The Beatles.
• History and heritage, deep-rooted in the history of their namesake capital cities, this includes the iconic Tower of London and Edinburgh Castle.
• Famous sites and places, including Manchester’s impressive football stadiums and trip to Scotland’s scenic Cairngorms National Park – a setting for blockbuster movies.

To explore UK city breaks, multi-destination itineraries and more from VisitBritain and dnata Travel, visit www.dnataTravel.com. For more travel advice and inspiration, contact the dnata Travel experts via call or WhatsApp on 800 DNATA (36282), on social media @dnataTravel, email holidays@dnatatravel.com, or visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the GCC.

-ends

Notes to editors

For dnata Travel press inquiries, please contact:

dnata Public Relations
public.relations@dnata.com

About dnata Travel
dnata Travel is the UAE’s original travel agency with more than 60 years of experience, and a growing GCC presence. Offering the ultimate one-stop travel shop, dnata Travel’s services include flights, hotels, holidays, visas, insurance, transfers, tours, and excursions, and so much more. Its multi-channel offering includes stores across the UAE and wider GCC, dnataTravel.com, and a call centre offering 24/7 support. The experts at dnata Travel work around the clock and around the world to bring travellers the most current destination information and inspiration, as well as exclusive offers and value adds. Find out more at: www.dnatatravel.com.

For VisitBritain press inquiries, please contact:

Mirna Tamimi, Communications Manager, GCC
Email: mirna.tamimi@visitbritain.org
Mobile: +971 50 449 1338

Media website: www.visitbritain.org/media 
Asset library: www.assets.visitbritain.org  

About VisitBritain
VisitBritain is the British Tourist Authority (BTA), operating under the brand names VisitBritain and VisitEngland. As the national tourism agency, VisitBritain works to raise Britain’s profile, increase the volume and value of tourism exports and develop England’s visitor economy, working with organisations of all sizes and specialities.  VisitBritain’s role is to deliver growth for the visitor economy, inspiring visitors to explore Britain now through tourism and events.

-ends

Editor’s Notes:

About dnata Travel Group
The dnata Travel Group represents the travel division of dnata, one of the world’s largest air and travel services providers. Part of The Emirates Group, the group’s history is rooted in Dubai and the growth of its pioneering travel industry, evolving to consist of more than 15 leading international travel brands with coverage across the world. The dnata Travel Group is proud to serve its global customers as a leading, award-winning travel services provider with long-standing travel expertise, a wide range of products and services, and high standards of service and safety across all its operations. Its global businesses cover all aspects of the travel industry from local travel agencies to global travel consolidators, corporate travel, sports travel, destination management and attractions, airline representation services, and more. Find out more at www.dnata.com/travel

Contact
dnata Public Relations
public.relations@dnata.com

About Minor Hotels
Minor Hotels is an international hotel owner, operator, and investor currently with more than 540 hotels in operation. Minor Hotels passionately explores new possibilities in hospitality with a diverse portfolio of properties designed intelligently to appeal to different kinds of travellers, serving new passions as well as personal needs. Through our Anantara, Avani, Oaks, Tivoli, NH Collection, NH Hotels, nhow, Elewana, Marriott, Four Seasons, St. Regis, Radisson Blu and Minor International properties, Minor Hotels operates in 56 countries across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe, South America and North America.

With dynamic plans to expand existing brands and explore strategic acquisitions throughout opportunistic markets, Minor Hotels pursues a vision of a more passionate and interconnected world. 

Minor Hotels is part of the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme, enabling travellers to savour every moment at home or away, while being recognised and rewarded at participating hotels and resorts worldwide.

For media enquiries, please contact: 

Hana Fuchs
Regional Director of Marketing Communications Middle East & North Africa
E: hfuchs@minor.com 

Natasha Rhymes
Group Director PR & Communications
E: nrhymes@minor.com

Representing the Travel division of dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider based in the UAE, titles earned by the dnata Travel Group include two wins for dnata Travel, the UAE’s original travel agency, recognised as Dubai’s Leading Travel Agency 2024 and Saudi Arabia's Leading Travel Agency 2024.

Another highlight for the Group at the prestigious travel industry awards this year includes the success of its destination management company, tour and safari operator, Arabian Adventures, across three categories for a fifth consecutive year. Its accolades include the UAE’s Leading Destination Management Company 2024, UAE’s Leading Desert Safari Company 2024, and UAE’s Leading Tour Operator 2024, while a new accolade for this year included Dubai's Leading Destination Management Company 2024.

Other accolades for GCC-based brands included the awards of dnata Representation Services and dnata Travel Management, which were recognised as the Middle East's Leading Airline GSA 2024 and Bahrain's Leading Travel Management Company 2024.

John Bevan, CEO of the dnata Travel Group, commented: “We are proud to have been acknowledged across such a diverse range of categories at this globally recognised awards programme. This demonstrates our wide-ranging service offering, as we continue to grow our global teams and product range from our GCC base. For Arabian Adventures, as an example, we are expanding our operations across the GCC to bring our award-winning DMC services to new markets, whilst enhancing our desert experiences in Dubai, including the popular all-inclusive Overnight Desert Safari.”

The World Travel Awards serves to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. The awards are voted on by travel and tourism professionals worldwide.

Find out more about the dnata Travel Group at www.dnata.com/travel.  

Launched as an air ticket service provider in 1959, dnata’s history is rooted in Dubai, with the dnata Travel Group now consisting of more than 15 leading international travel brands, with coverage across the world. UAE-based dnata Travel Group brands with a presence at ATM Dubai 2024 include destination management company, tour and safari operator Arabian Adventures, airport hospitality brand marhaba, leisure accommodation wholesale specialist Yalago, digital B2B attractions marketplace priohub, travel consolidator Gold Medal, and baggage technology and logistics company DUBZ. Representatives from across the wider dnata Group will also be on-hand throughout the event to meet industry partners and customers.

Located in the Middle East pavilion, the dnata Travel Group stand has an increased capacity to welcome representatives from across its global markets, reflecting continued local and international demand for travel to and from the UAE in 2024.

John Bevan, CEO, dnata Travel Group commented: “As we welcome the global travel industry to our stand at ATM Dubai this year, we are in turn marking 65 years of operation in the local market. The dnata Travel Group has been part of the evolution and innovation synonymous with the growth of travel to Dubai, and from this market to the rest of the world. We are proud to be a part of it. This year we are returning to ATM to showcase our UAE-based brands’ latest products and services to the world, as we continue to see major growth.”

Arabian Adventures is showcasing a state-of-the-art dune buggy on dnata’s ATM stand, reflecting its variety of experiences on offer to UAE residents and tourists. Its team will be on-hand to discuss latest product enhancements including to the brands’ popular, all-inclusive Overnight Desert Safari, and its DMC arms’ preparations to expand across the GCC in 2024.

Yalago, one of the world’s fastest-growing global leisure accommodation wholesale specialists, is showcasing its growing hotel inventory, offering increased savings to the local market.  

marhaba, part of dnata’s Airport Operations division, will present its award-winning global airport hospitality services at the event, alongside DUBZ, which will showcase its increasingly popular Dubai-based home check-in, baggage delivery, and other services ensuring a smoother airport experience.

Representatives from across the dnata Travel Group will also share insights and experiences in the following conference sessions during the event this year:

• Anabela Radosevic, Head of Business Development, Arabian Adventures, on a panel at the ATM Global Stage on ‘Using Adventure to Attract the Americas’ (6^th May);
• Sean Kelly, Head of IT, dnata Travel Group, speaking at a panel organised by Sabre on the ATM Future Stage, on ‘Beyond the Hype: Demystifying 2024 Travel Tech Trends​’ (7^th May); and
• Shaun Anderson, Head of Sales, dnata Travel Management on ‘Charting the Next Course for Global Business Travel ‘ as part of an ATM Global Stage panel, organised by the GBTA (8^th May).

Meet the dnata Travel Group team at Arabian Travel Market, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre between 6-9^th May 2024, at stand ME1250, next to the Emirates Airline stand. Find out more at www.dnata.com/travel.

The dnata Travel Group represents the travel division of dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider. Part of the Emirates Group, the group’s history is rooted in Dubai and consists of more than 15 leading international travel brands, with coverage across the world. Its UK portfolio includes B2C brands Travelbag, Travel Republic, and Netflights, and B2B brands Gold Medal, Pure Luxury, Cruise Plus, and Incredible Journeys.

Lesley has been part of the dnata Travel Group for almost five years as Managing Director for Travelbag. Prior to joining the Group, Lesley served as Managing Director – Longhaul for Travelopia based in the UK, a leading collection of global brands focused on experiential travel.

Lesley Rollo, CEO dnata Travel Group – UK, commented: “I’m thrilled to announce my new role and excited to work with our exceptional teams to shape the future together. I'm ready for the challenges and eager to make an impact across our UK business and wider dnata Travel Group.”

John Bevan, CEO, dnata Travel Group added: “Lesley brings a wealth of experience from her previous role leading our UK-based Travelbag brand and being a key member of our UK board. She is highly regarded within the industry, having extensive prior experience within tour operating across a variety of well-known travel businesses. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Lesley for several years, and know her ability to navigate our industry, inspire our teams, and drive continued strategic vision and innovation, which makes her an ideal fit for this position to continue to grow our UK brands.

“As she embarks on a new chapter, we would also like to thank Ailsa Pollard for her commitment and contributions to the dnata Travel Group. A key member of the team for over a decade, she has played an integral and dynamic role in our global success story. On behalf of the Group, we wish her every success in the future.”

Find out more about the dnata Travel Group and its range of global travel brands at www.dnata.com/travel.

The Group also reported an EBITDA of AED 20.6 billion (US$ 5.6 billion), a significant improvement from AED 15.3 billion (US$ 4.2 billion) during the same period last year, illustrating its strong operating profitability.

Group revenue was AED 67.3 billion (US$ 18.3 billion) for the first six months of 2023-24, up 20% from AED 56.3 billion (US$ 15.3 billion) last year. This was driven by strong demand for air transport across the world, which has been on an upward trajectory since the last pandemic travel restrictions were lifted. 

The Group closed the first half year of 2023-24 with a solid cash position of AED 42.7 billion (US$ 11.6 billion) on 30 September 2023, compared to AED 42.5 billion (US$ 11.6 billion) on 31 March 2023. The Group has been able to tap on its own strong cash reserves to support business needs, including debt payments. So far, Emirates has repaid AED 9.2 billion of its COVID-19 related loans. The Group also paid AED 4.5 billion in dividend to its owner, as declared at the end of its 2022-23 financial year.

His Highness (HH) Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: “We are seeing the fruition of our plans to return stronger and better from the dark days of the pandemic. The Group has surpassed previous records to report our best-ever half-year performance. Our profit for the first six months of 2023-24 has nearly matched our record full year profit in 2022-23. This is a tremendous achievement that speaks to the talent and commitment within the organisation, the strength of our business model, and power of Dubai’s vision and policies that has enabled the creation of a strong, resilient, and progressive aviation sector.

“Across the Group, we’ve continued to ramp up operations safely and move nimbly to meet customer demand. We’ve implemented a series of service and product enhancements to win customer preference, and we’ll continue to invest in our people, products, partnerships, and technology to strengthen our capabilities and ensure we are future ready.”

HH Sheikh Ahmed added: “For the second half of 2023-24, we expect customer demand across our business divisions to remain healthy and we will stay agile in how we deploy our resources in this dynamic marketplace. At the same time, we are keeping a close watch on headwinds such as rising fuel prices, the strengthening US dollar, inflationary costs, and geo-politics.”

To support increased operations and business activities, the Emirates Group’s employee base, compared to 31 March 2023, grew 6% to an overall count of 108,996 on 30 September 2023. Both Emirates and dnata have ongoing recruitment drives to support their future requirements.

dnata

dnata continued to ramp up operations across its cargo and ground handling, catering and retail, and travel services businesses. This drove strong revenue growth in the first six months of 2023-24.

In the first half of 2023-24, dnata’s catering and airport services won significant new contracts and grew existing customers across its international operations. This shows dnata’s ability to serve the growing operations of airline customers, and deliver high quality products and services despite lingering operational challenges in many markets such as a shortage of skilled workforce, supply chain issues, and inflationary pressures.

dnata also continued to make strategic investments in its business and implement innovative technology and other initiatives to better respond to customer needs. Highlights in the first half of 2023-24 include: the acquisition of an additional 29% stake in Imagine Cruising, bringing to 81.4% its shareholding in UK’s leading cruise and stay holiday distributors; the implementation of AI-powered solutions to enhance dnata’s cargo handling operations and capabilities in Singapore; and the switch to a biofuel blend for road transport vehicles in the UAE used by dnata Logistics, Arabian Adventures, Alpha Flight Services, and City Sightseeing to reduce emissions and address rising customer expectations for transport options with lower environmental footprint.

dnata’s revenue, including other operating income, of AED 9.3 billion (US$ 2.5 billion) increased by 27% compared to AED 7.3 billion (US$ 2.0 billion) generated in the same period last year.

Overall profit for dnata is AED 709 million (US$ 193 million), compared to same period last year’s AED 236 million (US$ 64 million).

dnata’s airport operations remains the largest contributor to revenue with AED 4.1 billion (US$ 1.1 billion), an 18% increase compared to the same period last year, as its airline customers’ operations continued to pick up particularly in Australia, Singapore, UK, and the UAE.  Across its operations, the number of aircraft turns handled by dnata increased by 11% to 384,656, and it handled 1.3 million tonnes of cargo, down by 5% reflecting further softening of the global air freight market after a pandemic-driven surge.

dnata’s flight catering and retail operations, contributed AED 3.5 billion (US$ 942 million) to its revenue, up 45% with strong production increases in Australia, Italy, UK, and the US to meet customer demand. The number of meals uplifted increased by 31% to 66.3 million meals compared to last year’s 50.5 million meals.

dnata's travel division contributed AED 1.4 billion (US$ 375 million) to revenue, up 16% compared to AED 1.2 billion (US$ 323 million) for the same period last year. dnata saw strong contributions from Destination Asia, its destination management business in Asia; and from its cruise holidays business, Imagine Cruising, in which dnata has acquired controlling interest. The division reported an underlying total transactional value (TTV) sales of AED 4.0 billion (US$ 1.1 billion), compared to AED 3.5 billion (US$ 960 million) for the same period last year.

Emirates airline

Emirates continued to increase its global flight operations, adding capacity and connections through its Dubai hub to meet customer demand across markets. During the first half of 2023-24, the airline restored A380 operations to Bali, Beijing, Birmingham, Casablanca, Nice, Shanghai, and Taiwan.

In July, it launched daily non-stop services to Montreal, a new destination and the airline’s second gateway in Canada.

Expanding connectivity options for customers, Emirates entered and enhanced codeshare or interline agreements with 8 airlines in the first six months of 2023-24: Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Etihad Airways, Kenya Airways, Philippine Airlines, Maldivian, Sri Lankan Airlines, and United Airlines. The codeshare partnership between Emirates and Qantas, which has seen over 15 million travellers benefit from joint flight itineraries since its establishment in 2013, received approvals for a further 5-year extension until 2027.

By 30 September, the airline was operating passenger and cargo services to 144 airports, utilising its entire Boeing 777 fleet and 104 A380s. During the first six months of 2023-24, 10 A380 aircraft rolled out of Emirates’ retrofit programme with completely refreshed cabin interiors and latest onboard products including Premium Economy seats. This enabled the airline to deploy its highly sought-after Premium Economy services on more new routes including New York JFK, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Singapore.

In the first half of 2023-24, Emirates launched a new global brand advertising campaign featuring Hollywood actor Penelope Cruz; and introduced initiatives to enhance customer travel experience including: a new city check-in facility at Dubai International Financial Centre, free onboard wi-fi for Emirates Skywards members, and a new meal pre-ordering capability for customers to select their meal options in advance of travel.

Overall capacity during the first six months of the year increased by 25% to 28.5 billion Available Tonne Kilometres (ATKM) due to an expanded flight programme. Capacity measured in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKM), increased by 30%, whilst passenger traffic carried measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometres (RPKM) was up by 35% with an average Passenger Seat Factor of 81.5%, compared with 78.5% during the same period last year.

Emirates carried 26.1 million passengers between 1 April and 30 September 2023, up 31% from the same period last year. Emirates Skycargo uplifted 1,035,000 tonnes in the first six months of the year, an 11% increase compared to the same period last year despite an overall softening in the global cargo market. This reflects the cargo division’s ability to meet customer demand with specialised products, and the excellent network options on offer with its freighter and bellyhold cargo operations.

Emirates profit for the first half of 2023-24 hit a new record of AED 9.4 billion (US$ 2.6 billion), compared to same period last year’s profit of AED 4.0 billion (US$ 1.1 billion). Emirates revenue, including other operating income, of AED 59.5 billion (US$ 16.2 billion) was up 19% compared with the AED 50.1 billion (US$ 13.7 billion) recorded in the same period last year. The airline’s record performance is attributable to the strong passenger demand for international travel across markets and Emirates’ ability to activate capacity to match demand; and offer customers great value and services.

Emirates’ direct operating costs (including fuel) grew by 9% in line with increased operations. Fuel remains the largest component of the airline’s operating cost (34%), compared to 38% in the same period last year.

Driven by strong demand and increased operations during the six months, Emirates’ EBITDA grew by 33% to AED 19.5 billion (US$ 5.3 billion) compared to AED 14.7 billion (US$ 4.0 billion) for the same period last year.

dnata Representation Services has been selected to provide a comprehensive range of services to the airline as its general sales agent (GSA) in the UAE. The partnership establishes UAE-based infrastructure for local sales, marketing and distribution support, providing a full range of travel services for Virgin customers flying to and from Dubai. dnata’s services will support the airline as it gears up to resume flights between London Heathrow (LHR) and Dubai International (DXB) this month.

Flights are now available for customers to book, and will operate from 30 October 2023 through to March 2024 with a four-times weekly seasonal service.

Simon Woodford, Vice President Global Air Services at dnata Travel Group, said: "dnata Representation Services previously served as Virgin Atlantic’s GSA in the UAE, and we are delighted to be working with this dynamic airline as it makes its exciting return to Dubai. Our experienced team will work hard to support Virgin Atlantic in achieving its business objectives and growth plans, as the UAE continues to prove a top destination of choice for UK travellers."

Liezl Gericke, Head of International at Virgin Atlantic, commented: "We’ve long wanted to return to Dubai when the time was right, and we know our customers will be over the moon with the reintroduction of this popular route. Nothing sets our hearts soaring like a new destination or reintroducing an old favourite. We look forward to welcoming our customers back on board, whether travelling for business or leisure or heading back to the United Kingdom to reconnect with friends and family."

The new service is set to offer seamless connections and consistent long-haul onboard experiences for customers connecting from Dubai via London Heathrow to destinations throughout North America across both the Virgin Atlantic and Delta networks, including New York, Seattle, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

The new route will be served by the airline’s Boeing 787-9 aircraft boasting 31 Upper Class, 35 Premium and 192 Economy Delight, Classic and Light seats, with return Economy Class fares starting from AED 2,050 per person.

Find out more about dnata Representation Services at www.dnata.com/travel; and explore more on Virgin Atlantic and latest available flights from London to the UAE and beyond, at www.virginatlantic.com.

Representing the Travel division of dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, titles earned by the dnata Travel Group include Middle East's Leading Airline GSA 2023 (dnata Representation Services), Bahrain's Leading Travel Management Company 2023 (dnata Travel Management), and Saudi Arabia's Leading Travel Agency 2023 (dnata Travel).

A highlight for the Group at the prestigious travel industry awards this year includes the success of Arabian Adventures across three categories for a fourth consecutive year. Its accolades include the UAE’s Leading Destination Management Company 2023, UAE’s Leading Desert Safari Company 2023, and UAE’s Leading Tour Operator 2023.

John Bevan, CEO of the dnata Travel Group, commented: “The annual World Travel Awards are recognised globally, and we are proud to have been acknowledged in such a diverse range of categories. As we continue to grow and enhance our core product offerings and introduce more in our range of local and global travel services, this is an exciting time for our Group. We look forward to revealing more to GCC-based and international travellers and trade partners throughout the 2023/24 winter season.”

Currently growing its global team and offering, also inclusive of UAE-based attraction bookings, cruise handling and event services, Arabian Adventures recently launched its destination management (DMC) services from the UAE to a first international destination in 2023: the Maldives. As the company seeks to enhance the affordability of tours and experiences across the emirates, recent product launches include ‘The Adventure Pass’ which offers Dubai attraction bundles with up to 40% savings compared to standard entry prices combined. More new products and enhancements to its existing range are set to be launched throughout the 2023/24 winter season, including to its ‘Overnight Desert Safari’, an all-inclusive desert camping experience.

Meanwhile, the wider range of dnata Travel Group brands, which cover all aspects of the travel industry, continue to innovate and expand from their base in the UAE to the GCC and beyond.

The World Travel Awards serves to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. The awards are voted on by travel and tourism professionals worldwide. 

Find out more about the dnata Travel Group at www.dnata.com/travel.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “As we mark Civil Aviation Day in the UAE, it is an honour to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the local aviation industry alongside the authorities, our partners and team.

“Since its foundation in 1959, dnata’s journey has been one of dedication, innovation and relentless commitment to service excellence. We are extremely proud to see how our company and its hardworking teams have played an instrumental role in the success and growth of Dubai and the UAE aviation industry. 

“Aviation is a vital driver of economic progress, and we look forward to contributing to the UAE’s further development by consistently providing best-in-class services across our diverse operations.”

dnata was founded in January 1959 with just two staff operating solely as a UAE-based travel agency. Since then, it has constantly expanded its operations and services, growing to become pivotal to the success and growth of Dubai, and of the country’s aviation industry.

dnata’s milestones over the past 64 years include:

• Playing an instrumental part in the design of the original Dubai International airport (DXB) in the 1960s and its three terminals
• The first aircraft turnaround at DXB’s newly-opened terminal in 1971
• The launch of marhaba and its renowned airport hospitality services in 1991
• Its expansion into Dubai World Central airport (DWC) in 2010     
• The opening of a new export customer service centre and Cargo Integrated Control Centre at Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZA) in 2016
• The completion of the UAE’s first “green” turnaround of a flydubai aircraft at DXB in 2019, an achievement made possible by consistent investments in zero-emission, electric ramp ground support equipment.

Having mirrored Dubai’s growth, the dnata Group presently employs over 23,000 staff, delivering world-class services to over 190 passenger and cargo airlines across the UAE. Every day, the company’s customer-oriented professionals assist over 86,000 passengers, handle over 220,000 bags, manage 580 safe aircraft turnarounds and move 1,600 tonnes of cargo in Dubai. Besides, marhaba’s best-in-class Lounge and Meet & Greet services ensure a smooth and memorable airport journey for over 8,000 passengers per day. dnata also provides over 25,000 meals each day through its Alpha Flight Services joint venture in Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah.

Further to its success in the UAE, dnata took a huge leap forward with the launch of its first overseas operation, Gerry’s dnata in Pakistan in 1993. This strategic move led the way for the expansion of dnata’s global operations through acquisitions, partnerships, as well as organic growth over the past three decades. dnata has evolved into a leading global player in the aviation, catering & retail and travel industries that currently provides quality and safe services in more than 30 countries across six continents.

IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) is a certification programme developed to independently assess the commitment of aviation stakeholders such as airlines, airports, cargo handling facilities, freight forwarders, and ramp handlers, to continuously improve their environmental and sustainability performance.

IATA’s comprehensive evaluation encompassed 74 mandatory and all three optional modules, rigorously assessing dnata’s sustainability practices and efforts across its extensive operations in the UAE. In addition to its corporate Headquarters, ground handling and cargo businesses, dnata’s airport hospitality brand, marhaba, and inflight catering joint venture, Alpha Flight Services (Alpha), have also been certified through IEnvA’s hospitality module. DUBZ, dnata’s baggage technology and logistics company, also received the certification. This remarkable outcome attests to dnata’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of sustainability.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “We are immensely proud to be the first combined air services provider to achieve the full scope of the IEnvA certification in the UAE. This accomplishment speaks volumes about our team's dedication to sustainability and responsible business practices across our operations. We will continue our investments in people, infrastructure and equipment to maximise environmental efficiency, while consistently delivering best-in-class services for our customers and travellers in the UAE and beyond.”

Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s Senior Vice President, Sustainability and Chief Economist, commented: “I would like to extend my most sincere congratulations to dnata for achieving full IEnvA Certification in the UAE. This is a remarkable achievement that reflects their unwavering dedication to environmental sustainability and responsible business practices. I commend the efforts of everyone involved and wish dnata continued success in their role of our industry's sustainability journey.”

dnata recently announced that it was on track to reduce its carbon footprint and waste to landfill by 20% by 2024 as part of its two-year green operations strategy. Previously, the company committed US$ 100 million to implement green technology and initiatives across its businesses to achieve its strategic objectives. The company’s recent key initiatives include continued significant investment in infrastructure, green ground support solutions and process improvement.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

dnata’s latest initiative is part of its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and waste to landfill by 20% by 2024 in line with its two-year green operations strategy. In June 2022, dnata announced that it would invest US$100 million in green operations in two years to further enhance its environmental efficiency globally.

dnata’s group brands cutting fossil fuel dependence

dnata Logistics has switched 31 of its trucks to be run on a biofuel blend at its Dubai-based hub. Providing multimodal freight forwarding, logistics, supply chain and road transport services, its trucks cover up to a total 217,000 kilometres per month. The move saves almost 35 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, the equivalent of eight petrol-powered cars driven for one whole year.

City Sightseeing Dubai, a joint venture with dnata Travel Group, operates three tour routes, providing elevated viewing of Dubai’s top attractions, through the use of 21 open-top, biofueled buses. These cover an average 76,000 kilometres per month, removing over 32 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year: the equivalent of the electricity use of four average homes for 12 months.

Alpha Flight Services (Alpha), dnata’s inflight catering joint venture, has already switched five landside vehicles to biofuel blend, and is also in the process of transitioning all of its Sharjah-based airside catering trucks. Alpha now sends its used cooking oil to the biofuel manufacturer and once recycled, it is then re-used within its vehicles. Research shows that one litre of oil recycled into biofuel avoids the emissions of 3kg of CO₂, a reduction of 92% compared to diesel fuel use. Alpha’s vehicles cover over 27,000 kilometres per month, supporting the company’s extensive catering operations that create over 25,000 meals a day. As a result of the initiative, Alpha will save seven tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, the equivalent of charging over 850,000 smartphones.

Arabian Adventures has also switched the generators at its desert safari camps to a biofuel mix. The most experienced tour and safaris operator in the UAE, offering true Arabian hospitality, desert safaris, experiences and dune buggies, is saving almost five tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year as a result of the initiative. This equates to 1987 litres of diesel.

Besides its recent investment in landside operations, dnata has significantly invested in the electrification of its ground handling fleet across its global airport operations to reduce emissions, with more than 15% of the company’s global fleet now electrified. However, dnata understands that electrification is not the only solution for all vehicles throughout its group, and invests in a mix of equipment types and renewable fuel sources to maximise environmental and operational efficiency globally. It already operates biodiesel, electric and hybrid vehicles as well as actively exploring the use of hydrogen-powered equipment in its operations.

dnata’s other recent key initiatives include continued significant investment in renewable infrastructure, low-emissions ground support solutions and process improvements to optimise fuel efficiency. dnata continues to make significant investments in renewable energy including the installation of rooftop solar panels across its existing facilities, and capture and recycling of grey water or rainwater for conservation.

Waste to landfill focus

In order to reduce its environmental footprint in ways other than emissions, dnata is determined to reduce waste to landfill, and is collaborating with industry leaders and policymakers on the treatment of international catering waste. In addition, dnata is investing in sustainable solutions to recycle cargo waste materials, such as transport belts and nets. In close co-ordination with the airport community to enhance the segregation and retrieval of recyclables airside, dnata is targeting a 20% diversion of waste from landfill by 2024.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

In June 2022, dnata announced that it would invest US$100 million in green operations in two years to further enhance its global environmental efficiency globally.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “We are proud to have made significant progress on improving our environmental performance since the announcement of our strategic objectives. I thank each member of our team for their hard work and contribution to our green initiatives that help us make a difference across our global operations. 

“We will continue our investments and efforts alongside our partners to further reduce our environmental footprint.”

Investing in renewable energy

As part of its efforts to further improve global resource efficiency, dnata has continued to make significant investments in renewable energy. This includes the installation of rooftop solar power systems across its existing facilities.

dnata has installed solar panels at its operating facilities in Singapore, and at its SnapFresh facility in Australia. These generate over 4,300 MWh of renewable electricity annually, saving approximately 1.85 million kilogrammes of carbon dioxide emissions. Phase 1 of a solar PV panel installation in Pakistan also commenced, which is expected to generate 244,000 kWh per annum. Furthermore, all electricity purchased in the UK and Ireland is from renewables from local grids.

Conserving water

In addition to solar power, dnata is investing in systems to collect and re-use condensate from air conditioning units and rainwater at both of its existing and new facilities. These initiatives optimise water usage and associated costs.

dnata’s new 20,000m2 cargo facility in Iraq, which will begin operations in 2024, will include environmentally sustainable features including a rooftop rainwater harvesting system. This will capture, treat and store rainwater in underground tanks, feeding irrigation systems within the facility as well as for potable uses, achieving a 50% saving on water costs by 2025. The system has also been configured in the Philippines using the same technology, but to collect and recycle rainwater for drinking and washing purposes. This technology will also shortly be implemented at dnata’s Singapore facilities.

With the UAE’s dry climate, dnata has installed a Reverse Osmosis Plant to re-use condensate water from the cooling systems in its cargo warehouses in Dubai. This has resulted in 5,000 litres of water per day being reused for washing and cleaning.

dnata also launched a bottle-free drinking water system at its Corporate Headquarters, dnata Travel Centre and Alpha catering facilities, which will reduce plastic consumption and conserve over 95,000 litres of bottled water per year.

Transforming GSE fleet and using biofuels

dnata continues to invest in the electrification of its ground handling fleet, and the use of biofuels where feasible, to reduce emissions. More than 15% of the company’s global fleet is now electrified. dnata is continuing to support its global airport partners to prepare the infrastructure for further electrification.

dnata understands that electrification is not the only solution to its ground handling fleet strategy. It carefully considers airports’ climatic conditions and available infrastructure, and invests in a mix of equipment types, including biodiesel, electric, hydrogen and hybrid to maximise environmental and operational efficiency globally.

As part of the crucial role that it plays during busy winter operations in Switzerland, dnata added five new hybrid de-icing trucks to its ground support equipment (GSE) fleet in 2022. This increased the number of electric GSE in its operations in the country to 35%. In The Netherlands, dnata switched to 100% biofuel for all its legacy GSE fleet in January 2023, marking another milestone in its sustainable journey in Amsterdam, where 55% of its fleet is electric.

Reducing waste to landfill

In order to reduce its carbon footprint in ways other than emissions, dnata is determined to reduce waste to landfill, and is collaborating with industry leaders and policymakers on the treatment of international catering waste. In close co-ordination with the airport community to enhance the segregation and retrieval of recyclables airside, dnata is targeting a 20% diversion of waste from landfill by 2024. In addition, dnata is investing in sustainable solutions for cargo waste materials, such as transport belts and nets that are currently destined for landfill.

dnata Catering’s retail division is also working closely with its airline partners, introducing the pre-ordering of passenger inflight meals. This cuts significant food wastage, and therefore the need for airlines to burn larger quantities of fuel to transport heavier aircraft, reducing emissions.

IATA’s IEnvA Programme

In December 2022, dnata signed up to the IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme, based on globally recognised environmental and sustainability standards, as well as industry best practices. It is a commitment to continually improve environmental sustainability within the aviation field and is focused specifically on dnata’s core operations. These include cargo handling facilities, catering, freight forwarders, and ramp handlers. dnata is working towards full certification prior to the end of 2023.

United Nations Global Impact

dnata also joined the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), a voluntary global initiative that promotes responsible business practices, and the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals. dnata has committed to implement the Ten Principles of the UNGC in the areas of human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption. dnata will benefit from access to the UNGC’s extensive tools and resources to engage with its employees across the globe and improve their learning and training in Sustainability.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 38 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

Emirates achieved new record profits, a complete turnaround from its loss position last year. Both Emirates and dnata saw significant revenue increases in 2022-23 as the Group expanded its air transport and travel-related operations following the removal of nearly all pandemic-related restrictions around the world.

For the financial year ended 31 March 2023, the Emirates Group posted a record profit of AED 10.9 billion (US$ 3.0 billion) compared with an AED 3.8 billion (US$ 1.0 billion) loss for last year. The Group’s revenue was AED 119.8 billion (US$ 32.6 billion), an increase of 81% over last year’s results. The Group’s cash balance was AED 42.5 billion (US$ 11.6 billion), the highest ever reported, up 65% from last year mainly due to strong demand across its core business divisions and markets.  

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group, said: “We’re proud of our 2022-23 performance which is not only a full recovery, but also a record result. This achievement would not have been possible without HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, whose leadership has been critical to our success today and through the years. The architect of Dubai’s progressive economic policies, HH Sheikh Mohammed is also the engine behind the Emirates Group’s trajectory. Without his drive and support, Emirates will be half the size of what we are today.”

He added: I’m proud of the Emirates Group’s performance for 2022-23, and our contribution to the restoration of air transport and tourism across the markets we serve, including Dubai’s astounding 97% year-on-year growth in international visitors for 2022. The Group is the biggest player in the UAE’s aviation sector, which supports over 770,000 jobs and generates an estimated contribution to GDP of over US$ 47 billion (AED 172.5 billion). With our growth plans, and in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, we expect to significantly increase our contribution to the UAE’s GDP over the next decade through direct and indirect employment, supply chain spending, tourism spend, and trade and commerce benefits from the movement of cargo.”

Commenting on the Group’s 2022-23 turnaround performance, Sheikh Ahmed said: “We had anticipated the strong return of travel, and as the last travel restrictions lifted and triggered a tide of demand, we were ready to expand our operations quickly and safely to serve our customers. Our ongoing investments in our brand, and in our products and services, helped drive customer preference and position us favourably in the market. As a result, we have delivered a record financial performance and cash balance for our financial year 2022-23.  This reflects the strength of our proven business model, our careful forward planning, the hard work of all our employees, and our solid partnerships across the aviation and travel ecosystem.”

To support expanded operations and to bolster the Group’s future capabilities, Emirates and dnata ramped up recruitment activity across the globe during the year. As a result, the Group’s total workforce increased by 20% to 102,379 employees, representing over 160 different nationalities.

In 2022-23, the Group collectively invested AED 7.2 billion (US$ 2.0 billion) in new aircraft, facilities, equipment, companies, and the latest technologies to position the business for future growth. Our commitments include: a massive multi-billion dollar aircraft cabin retrofit programme; an order for 5 new 777 freighters; the building of a new pilot training centre; the opening of Bustanica, the world’s largest vertical farm in Dubai under a partnership with CropOne; new training aircraft for its cadets at Emirates Flight Training Academy; dnata’s acquisition of 30% shares to gain full ownership of its ground handling operations in Brazil; and the building of a new advanced cargo facility in Erbil, Iraq.

The Emirates Group also continued to progress on its sustainability journey during the year. Notably, it signed up to the United Nations Global Compact, a voluntary initiative where Emirates and dnata will work towards making the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Principles part of their strategy, culture, and operations. The Group also signed the UAE Gender Balance Council’s pledge to increase female representation at mid-senior management positions to 30% across the country by 2025.

Amongst its numerous environmental initiatives, a key highlight for Emirates was the successful conduct of a demonstration flight with 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in one engine of a Boeing 777. This first-in-region initiative contributes to collective industry data and efforts to enable a future of 100% SAF flying. dnata in 2022-23 pledged to invest US$ 100 million (AED 367 million) over 2 years, to improve environmental efficiency across its global business, supporting its goal to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% by 2030.

During the year, the Group supported various community and humanitarian initiatives across its markets including relief efforts for the floods in Pakistan and the earthquake in Turkey and Syria. It also continued to participate in innovation incubators, and support programmes that build a pipeline of skilled aviation talent and develop future solutions for the industry.

Sheikh Ahmed said: “In 2022-23, we’ve not only brought back most of our operations but also grew our footprint and capabilities by investing in people, product, and new technologies – demonstrating our agility and ability. We continue to lay strong foundations for future success and join hands with partners to grow our business and to collaborate on innovative solutions for travel and aviation. As our business expands, so does our ability to make a positive impact on the communities we serve. We are steadfast in our commitment to deliver value to our customers and stakeholders while minimising our environmental impact.

“We go into 2023-24 with a strong positive outlook and expect the Group to remain profitable. We will work hard to hit our targets while keeping a close watch on inflation, high fuel prices, and political and economic uncertainty.”

dnata performance

Recovery from the pandemic was felt across almost all dnata businesses, and in 2022-23 dnata increased its profit by 201% to AED 331 million (US$ 90 million).

With growing flight and travel activity across the world, dnata's total revenue increased by 74% to AED 14.9 billion (US$ 4.1 billion). dnata’s international businesses account for 72% of its revenue, an increase of 10%pts from the previous year. Through the year, dnata worked closely with its customers through the challenges of labour shortages and rising inflation in its major markets such as UK, US, Europe and Australia.  

Laying the foundations for future growth, dnata’s investments in 2022-23 amounted to AED 467 million (US$ 127 million). Significant investments during the year included: a new cargo centre in Amsterdam, the Netherlands; new modern cargo and ground service equipment facilities in Erbil, Iraq; the global roll-out of its advanced “OneCargo” system to digitise and automate business functions; the expansion of marhaba operations in Dubai and Zanzibar; and the re-opening of renovated catering facilities in Sydney with energy efficient installations and equipment upgrades.

In 2022-23, dnata’s operating costs increased by 74% to AED 14.6 billion (US$ 4.0 billion), in line with expanded operations in its Airport Operations, Catering and Travel divisions and impacted by inflationary pressure across all markets mainly for labour and food supply.

dnata’s cash balance improved by more than AED 200 million to AED 5.1 billion (US$ 1.4 billion). Net cash used in financing activities, primarily payments for loans and leases, amounted to AED 906 million (US$ 247 million), while the business utilised net cash of AED 528 million (US$ 144 million) in essential investing activities. The business saw a positive operating cash flow of AED 1.4 billion (US$ 381 million) in 2022-23, a reflection of the substantial improvements in revenue.

Revenue from dnata’s Airport Operations, including ground and cargo handling increased to AED 7.2 billion (US$ 2.0 billion).

The number of aircraft turns handled by dnata globally grew by 35% to 712,383, cargo handled declined by 8% to 2.7 million tonnes, reflecting the increased flight activity across markets as the last pandemic restrictions lifted and dnata’s customers reinstated services.

During 2022-23, dnata launched its ground handling operations at the newly built terminal of Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, together with Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR) and MMI as master concessionaire for all food and beverage, duty free and commercial outlets at the terminal. It also expanded operations in Canada, partnering GTA Group to offer quality and safe cargo services in Calgary and Vancouver.

dnata’s Catering & Retail business accounted for AED 4.8 billion (US$ 1.3 billion) of dnata’s revenue, up by 187%. The inflight catering business uplifted 111.4 million meals to airline customers, almost three times the number of meals from last year, as its airline customers across the world restored their flight operations.

dnata’s Catering & Retail division substantially increased production to support airlines to restart their flight operations after the pandemic particularly in Australia, and its key markets of UK and the USA. It also worked extensively with its customers on flexing their menus to address supply chain issues and food inflation.

In the UAE, Alpha Flight Services (Alpha), dnata’s subsidiary, signed a concession agreement under which it will provide flight catering services to over 10 airlines at Ras Al Khaimah International airport, operate three F&B outlets, as well as the airport lounge.

Notable contract wins for the catering division in 2022-23 include: multi-year catering contracts with Australia’s newest airline, Bonza, and with Air India for its flights in London, Birmingham, and Milan; contracts with United Airlines and Edelweiss Air for their flights in Jordan; and with Lufthansa and Swiss International Air Lines in Singapore.

Revenue from dnata’s Travel Services division grew by 227% to AED 2.3 billion (US$ 618 million). The reported total transaction value (TTV) of travel services sold increased by 203% to AED 7.0 billion (US$ 1.9 billion), a substantial growth from last year. This reflects last year’s abnormal situation where the business was recovering from COVID-19-related booking cancellations.

In 2022-23, dnata Representation Services boosted its existing customer service support for Lufthansa in Europe and grew its relationship with American Airlines by providing a range of sales and marketing services to the carrier as its general sales agent in India. dnata became the preferred travel partner in the Middle East for American Express Global Business Travel, the world’s leading B2B travel platform; and enhanced its long-standing partnership with Club Med to bring tailor-made, all-inclusive holidays at exclusive rates closer to the GCC travellers.

In the UAE, dnata expanded its retail footprint with the opening of a new travel store in Dubai Hills. Reflecting the increased visitor numbers and demand for Dubai experiences, Arabian Adventures expanded and enhanced its popular ‘Overnight Safari’ experience in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and re-launched an enhanced edition of its signature Jeep Adventure Safari.

dnata's leisure wholesale specialist, Yalago, expanded its global in-markets teams, and recorded a 92% year on year increase in hotel bookings in 2022.

Emirates performance

Emirates’ total passenger and cargo capacity increased by 32% to 48.2 billion ATKMs in 2022-23, as the airline continued to reinstate passenger services across its network in line with the lifting of pandemic-related flight and travel restrictions. 

In addition to launching services to Tel Aviv, Emirates relaunched flights to six destinations and increased operations to 62 cities across its network throughout the year to serve strong customer demand. By 31 March 2023, the Emirates network comprised 150 destinations across six continents, including 9 cities served by its freighter fleet only. 

Emirates also deployed its flagship A380 aircraft to even more cities during the year, bringing its A380 network to 43 destinations as of 31 March 2023.

Enabling its customers access even more destinations, Emirates signed agreements with new codeshare partners in 2022-23 most notably with United Airlines and Air Canada, expanding the airline’s connectivity in the Americas to over 200 new points, in addition to mutual frequent flyer programme benefits. Emirates also reinforced its strategic partnerships with Qantas and flydubai and added new interline and codeshare partners: Airlink, AEGEAN, ITA Airways, Air Tanzania, Bamboo Airways, Batik Air, Philippine Airlines, Royal Air Maroc and Sky Express.

Emirates received two new 777 freighter aircraft during the financial year. It also phased out 4 older aircraft comprising of 2 A380, 1 Boeing 777-300ERs and 1 Freighter. Its total fleet count at the end of March was 260 units, with a youthful average fleet age of 9.1 years. 

Emirates’ order book stands at 200 aircraft, including 5 additional Boeing 777-300ER freighter orders announced during 2022-23. The airline’s long-standing strategy of operating modern and efficient aircraft remains unchanged, a commitment which underpins its Fly Better brand promise as a young fleet is better for the environment, better for operations, and better for customers.

With significantly enhanced capacity deployment across most markets, Emirates’ total revenue for the financial year increased 81% to AED 107.4 billion (US$ 29.3 billion). Currency fluctuations in some of the airline’s major markets, notably the Euro, Pound Sterling, and devaluation of the Pakistani Rupee, significantly impacted the airline’s profitability negatively by AED 4.5 billion (US$ 1.2 billion).

Total operating costs increased by 57% from last financial year. Cost of ownership (depreciation and amortisation) and fuel cost were the two biggest cost components for the airline in 2022-23, followed by employee cost. Fuel accounted for 36% of operating costs compared to 23% in 2021-22. The airline’s fuel bill increased by 143% to AED 33.7 billion (US$ 9.2 billion) compared to the previous year, due to a higher uplift of 49% in line with capacity expansion and a higher average fuel price which was up by 48%.

With the removal of pandemic-related travel restrictions globally, the airline substantially improved its financial results and reported a record profit of AED 10.6 billion (US$ 2.9 billion) after last year’s AED 3.9 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) loss, and an exceptional profit margin of 9.9%, reflecting the best performance in the airline’s history.

Emirates carried 43.6 million passengers (up 123%) in 2022-23, with seat capacity up by 78%. The airline reports a Passenger Seat Factor of 79.5%, compared with last year’s passenger seat factor of 58.6%; and a 7% increase in passenger yield to 37.5 fils (10.2 US cents) per Revenue Passenger Kilometre (RPKM), due to a change in cabin and route mix, fares and currency.  

Emirates continued to invest in delivering ever better customer experiences. During the year, it launched its full Premium Economy experience to hugely positive customer feedback, brought into service the first 6 of its newly retrofitted A380s with completely refreshed cabin interiors, and opened ‘Emirates World’ - a modern concept retail store which will gradually be introduced to other key markets. It also announced a US$ 350 million investment in new generation inflight entertainment systems for its A350 fleet.

With a continued focus on digital initiatives to provide customers with speedy and secure journeys, Emirates also signed a landmark biometric data agreement with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai to fast-track travellers’ journey on arrival.

Emirates SkyCargo delivered a solid performance, contributing 16% of the airline’s revenue despite a reduction in available capacity as aircraft that were temporarily converted into “mini freighters” during the pandemic returned to full passenger service.

In 2022-23, Emirates’ cargo division reinforced its leadership in cool chain transport, building on the advanced expertise and infrastructure that made it the carrier of choice for the transport of temperature sensitive medicines during the pandemic, and other perishable items.

Emirates SkyCargo maintained its edge in the global airfreight industry by focusing its customers, bringing innovative solutions to the market, and leveraging its fleet and network capabilities. During the year, the cargo division signed commercial MoUs with United Airlines and Air Canada to expand its network reach and capacity for customers; introduced a new digital channel, WebCargo, for customers to directly access and book its flights for their cargo shipments; and launched Emirates Delivers UK, expanding its e-commerce shipping solution to UAE customers. 

Emirates SkyCargo also deployed its expertise and capacity to transport relief goods to Pakistan, Turkey and Syria in partnership with Dubai’s International Humanitarian City.

With steady air freight demand throughout the year, Emirates’ cargo division reported a solid revenue of AED 17.2 billion (US$ 4.7 billion). This was a 21% decline over last year’s exceptional performance caused by the pandemic.

Freight yield per Freight Tonne Kilometre (FTKM) increased by 3% despite more cargo capacity returned to the global market, but generally remained at high levels compared to the pandemic marketplace due to steady and strong demand.

Tonnage carried declined by 14% to reach 1.8 million tonnes, due to the reduction in available freighter capacity for the entire year with the reinstatement of more passenger services. At the end of 2022-23, Emirates’ SkyCargo’s total freighter fleet stood at 11 Boeing 777Fs.

Emirates’ hotels portfolio revenue over last year increased by 12% to AED 675 million (US$ 184 million) reflecting the uptick in tourism traffic, particularly to Dubai.   

Emirates has consistently demonstrated the ability and commitment to fulfil its contractual obligations. In addition to repaying aircraft related financing liabilities as they fall due, it successfully repaid AED 3.0 billion (US$ 817 million) more of the total AED 17.5 billion (US$ 4.8 billion) raised during the COVID-19 crisis. This assurance continues to strengthen the confidence of its financing partners in its business model and allowed Emirates to reprice AED 4.5 billion (US$ 1.2 billion) of debt during this financial year and further raise AED 1.2 billion to finance the acquisition of two new B777 freighter aircraft through an Islamic finance lease at highly effective margins.

In the face of rising interest rates, Emirates adeptly managed its net exposure and effectively mitigated the impact of rate fluctuations on the bottom line. Additionally, the proactive currency risk management programme ensured ongoing financial stability and resilience by employing a range of hedging strategies including forward contracts and natural hedges.

Emirates closed the financial year with an exceptional level of cash assets of AED 37.4 billion (US$ 10.2 billion), 79% higher compared to 31 March 2022.   

The full 2022-23 Annual Report of the Emirates Group – comprising Emirates, dnata and their subsidiaries – is available at: www.theemiratesgroup.com/annualreport

US$ figures are converted at 1US$ = 3.67AED and are based on the AED figures rounded off in millions.

The sports event was inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman & Chief Executive Emirates Airline & Group, at an official ceremony with the presentation of a signed World Padel Academy jersey, representing the venue of the upcoming tournament.

Sheikh Ahmed said: “At the Emirates Group, we recognise the vital role that sports play in promoting health, inspiring people, and building strong teams. Our sponsorship activities underline our longstanding commitment to support events and initiatives that contribute to the wellbeing of communities. dnata’s padel tournament will offer both participants and fans a great opportunity to experience the power of sports and the benefits they bring.”

Embracing one of the world’s fastest growing sports by participation, dnata Government Travel initiated the padel event to engage with government entities across Dubai and the Northern Emirates. It aligns with the city’s vision and objectives to make Dubai the happiest city on Earth and provide citizens and residents with opportunities to embrace an active and healthy lifestyle.

On the occasion, Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO at du, said: “We are pleased to partner with dnata Government Travel to further accelerate for technology innovation in line with the UAE leadership’s vision to build a futuristic, knowledge-based economy. As part of our continuous support for Vision 2030 and improving lives by offering the latest and best-in-class technologies to customers, du experts will explore the potential of ChatGPT at the event. Reaching a million users in just five days, this AI platform is set to empower businesses, augment our capabilities, and drive efficiencies.”

Representatives from Government entities across Dubai and the Northern Emirates are invited to participate in the tournament, which will take place from 8 -10 March 2023, at the World Padel Academy Dubai. Members of the public can attend to observe the ‘knock-out’ tournament and participate in a series of raffle draws, games, and other entertainment. Unmissable prizes have been offered by event partners including Crown & Champa Resorts and Taj Hotels. Fans will also be able to enjoy gastronomic delights served by popular local brands G.O.A.T. Burger and Smash Speciality Coffee.

The event will follow on from the ‘GOV GAMES’ series, a unique team building initiative launched in 2018 by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, which will take place in early March.

The new event forms part of the dnata Travel Group’s continued commitment to sports travel.

To find out more about dnata Government Travel, please access: www.dnata.com/travel. To make an enquiry on the ‘Government Travel Padel Tournament’, government employees are encouraged to contact their dedicated customer relations manager.

dnata Representation Services has been exclusive distributor for Club Med in the region since 2013. As local traveller demand soars for more comprehensive holiday packages inclusive of meal plans, activities, flights, and transfers, dnata is bringing Club Med experiences closer than ever to the region through exclusive rates, tailor-made packages, and a host of new resorts for 2022.

Known for its ‘Sun’ and ‘Ski’ resorts in sought-after and unique locations worldwide, Club Med continues to grow with new openings, renovations and extensions annually. Its mountain escapes are popular with GCC travellers seeking nature-based holidays including new resorts in the French Alps (La Rosière) and Canada (Quebec Charlevoix) which launched in 2021.

With the launch of 2022’s ‘summer mountain’ holiday season, Club Med offers a playground for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts with six resorts in Europe open until September. The popular hiking, trail, biking and yoga activities on offer are included as part of its all-inclusive concept, bookable in the GCC with dnata Travel. Highly-anticipated for the winter 2022/23 season are new ski resort launches in Tignes and Val d'Isère, the latter being the first of Club Med’s luxury Exclusive Collection Resorts to be located in the mountains.

John Bevan, Divisional Senior Vice President, dnata Travel Group, commented: "We are growing our partnership of almost a decade with Club Med as we expand its presence across the GCC. Demand for travel is at a high, and local trends include a rise in popularity in all-inclusive offerings and nature-based retreats, making Club Med’s ‘summer mountain’ holidays and enhanced winter ski portfolio excellent options for GCC travellers."

In addition to its mountain resorts, popular locations for GCC travellers to book a Club Med holiday with dnata Travel have included beach resorts in the Maldives, Bali, Seychelles, Mauritius and Phuket.

This summer Club Med is also opening a brand-new property in Marbella, Spain. Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Blanca mountains, the resort offers Mediterranean Sea views and a short distance to the city centre. It’s also located in close proximity to Spanish Riviera golf courses, whilst golf practice facilities, tuition and classes are offered within the resort.

Henri Giscard d'Estaing, President of Club Med, added: "Through our enhanced partnership with dnata, we hope to bring more of the Club Med range to the forefront of travellers’ minds across the GCC. Rising in popularity from the Middle East are our offerings in Bali, the Maldives and Seychelles, whilst we anticipate our Marbella resort will be sought-after by the regions’ golf enthusiasts. Our enhanced ‘summer mountain’ product for 2022 offers new ways to experience the beautiful alps in Europe, perfect for travellers seeking a true escape amidst some of the world’s most exquisite natural surroundings, ahead of our resorts opening again for ever-popular ski seasons for winter 2022/2023."

Available to book exclusively through dnata Travel in the GCC, Club Med experiences include accommodation in its range of 3-Trident, 4-Trident and Exclusive Collection (equivalent to 5-Trident or 5-star) resorts. Its all-inclusive packages include accommodation, all-day beverages and cuisine, childcare, entertainment, health insurance, a range of sport and leisure activities, resort transfers, and return flights.

Travellers can find out more about Club Med’s full range of Sun and Ski holidays at www.dnataTravel.com/offers/club-med. To make a booking, travellers can visit the dnata Travel experts at any of its retail outlets, call or WhatsApp 800 DNATA (36282), or email holidays@dnatatravel.com.

Coming soon as part of its enhanced partnership, dnata Travel is set to launch a new Club Med GCC website with a host of packages tailor-made for local travellers, bookable online.

dnata Representation Services has acted as exclusive sales representative in the Middle East for the Banyan Tree Group’s Maldivian properties since 2016. dnata will now provide support for a range of its popular hotels and resorts across Thailand, offering regional travellers exclusive holiday packages and dedicated local support.

Its representation will cover ever-popular Banyan Tree Bangkok in the capital, and multiple properties across the country’s largest island, Phuket. This includes Banyan Tree Phuket, which recently launched a new wellbeing resort – Banyan Tree Veya Phuket – as part of its cluster; Angsana Laguna Phuket, opening this year a highly-anticipated new restaurant, ATOLL, set amidst a lagoon; alongside the Homm Bliss South Beach Patong and Cassia Phuket.

dnata Travel, based across the GCC, recently announced that Thailand is the most popular holiday destination for UAE travellers for summer 2022, while the brand records a surge in popularity for travel to the country across its wider regional operations including in KSA.

Sébastien Doussin, DVP – Global Ground Services & Destination Management at dnata Travel Group, commented: “As one of the Middle East’s longest-standing travel providers, we remain at the forefront of latest traveller trends across the region. Our enhanced partnership with the Banyan Tree Group, owner of some of the world’s most renowned luxury resorts, enables us to support our travellers with excellent hotel packages in some of the most sought-after travel destinations from this part of the world including Thailand and the Maldives.”

dnata’s enhanced coverage of Banyan Tree Group properties in Bangkok and Phuket, two areas of Thailand proving most popular with GCC travellers for summer 2022, comes in addition to its exclusive representation of its three signature hotels in the Maldives, including Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Angsana Velavaru and Angsana Ihuru.

The Maldives islands, which opened to tourists in July 2020, have remained ever-popular with travellers across the Middle East pre-pandemic and ongoing, offering easy access to paradise islands at a short flight time.

Benjawan Meksakul, Regional Director of Sales & Marketing – Thailand & Laos of Banyan Tree Group, added: “We are pleased to appoint dnata Representation Services, a well-known industry company as our Global Sales Agent – Middle East. Having created successes for different hotel brands in the luxury and premium space, dnata’s expertise and rich experience will see them implementing innovative sales and marketing strategies for our Thailand hotels post-COVID and create greater awareness for the global multi-brand ecosystem of Banyan Tree Group in the Middle East market.”  

For more information on the dnata Travel Group and dnata Representation Services’ extensive range of commercial services for hotels and airlines in the Middle East and beyond, visit: www.dnata.com/travel. To discover more on the Banyan Tree Group and its range of luxury properties across Thailand, the Maldives, and beyond, see: www.banyantree.com.

 

About dnata Travel Group 
The dnata Travel Group represents the travel division of dnata, one of the world’s largest air and travel services providers. Part of The Emirates Group, the group’s history is rooted in Dubai and the growth of its pioneering travel industry, evolving to consist of more than 30 leading international travel brands with coverage across the world. The dnata Travel Group is proud to serve its global customers as a leading, award-winning travel services provider with long-standing travel expertise, a wide range of products and services, and high standards of service and safety across all of its operations. Its global businesses cover all aspects of the travel industry from local travel agencies, to global travel consolidators, corporate travel, sports travel, destination management and attractions, airline representation services, and more.

About Banyan Tree Group
Banyan Tree Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group”) is one of the world’s leading independent, multi-brand hospitality groups centred on stewardship and wellbeing while offering exceptional, design-led experiences for the global travellers of today and tomorrow. The Group’s diversified portfolio of hotels, resorts, spas, galleries, golf and residences is centred around an ecosystem of 10 global brands, including the award-winning Banyan Tree, Angsana, Cassia, Dhawa and Laguna, as well as the highly anticipated new brands of Homm, Garrya, Folio and two new Banyan Tree brand extensions, Banyan Tree Escape and Banyan Tree Veya. 

Founded in 1994 on the core concept of sustainability, Banyan Tree Group seeks to create long-term value for all stakeholders and destinations across its network of properties, products and brands, through a purpose-driven mission. With 8,200 associates across 23 countries, Banyan Tree Management Academy (BTMA) was established in 2008 to support the Group’s goals through advancing people development, management excellence, and learning with integrity and meaning. 

Banyan Tree Group has received 2,920 industry awards and accolades since inception over 25 years ago, most recently being named among the Top 25 Hotel Brands in the World by Travel + Leisure. It has also received recognition for its commitment to environmental protection and community development through its Banyan Tree Global Foundation (BTGF), which aligns the Group’s efforts to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Executing on its regionalised growth strategy, the Group’s global footprint continues to grow with 45 new hotels and resorts under design and construction in the pipeline, in addition to 55 operating hotels in 15 countries as of 31 December 2021. As a global industry hospitality leader, Banyan Tree Group firmly embeds its mission to be a business that benefits all stakeholders, for the greater good. 

Banyan Tree Group entered a strategic long-term partnership with Accor in 2016 to develop and manage Banyan Tree branded hotels around the world along with the access to Accor’s global reservations and sales network, as well as the loyalty programme ALL – Accor Live Limitless. It also formed a joint venture with China Vanke Co. Ltd. in 2017 – focusing on active ageing and wellness hospitality projects. 
 

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “We’ve been making great progress on reducing our carbon footprint, minimising waste and reducing energy and water consumption across our operations. We will further increase our investments and efforts in strong cooperation with our partners to achieve our targets and preserve the environment for current and future generations.”

Investing in infrastructure and equipment with carbon reduction initiatives at the fore

In recent years dnata has significantly invested in advanced technologies to optimise resources and improve operational efficiency across its facilities. It installed renewable energy features, such as solar panels, heat recovery units and electric vehicle charging, at its existing facilities in the UK, Singapore and Ireland.  The company will also incorporate carbon reduction initiatives in the construction and operation of its recently announced new cargo centres in The Netherlands and Iraq.

Choosing green options is a prime consideration in dnata’s fleet planning, too. It has increased investments in electric and hybrid ramp, ground support (GSE) and forklift equipment, and refurbished existing GSE with new technologies to further decrease emissions and update them to the latest safety and quality standards. As a result, dnata became the first ground handler to successfully complete green aircraft turnarounds using only zero-emission GSE in the USA and UAE.

Reducing food waste through consumption trend analysis 

dnata’s catering team has invested in process improvement to minimise its environmental footprint. It has been working closely with many of its airline customers to analyse consumption trends and use predictive data to optimise the loading of F&B for in-flight catering. Analysis of on-board data not only reduces food waste but also fuel burn associated with carrying excess weight. In addition, where possible dnata catering sources and supplies local produce to reduce the food miles associated with menus.

dnata has also taken initiatives across its business units to conserve water consumption and recycle materials, such as paper, plastic, cardboard, wood, glass, metal, used cooking and mineral oils. Earlier this year, the company committed to reducing its waste to landfill by 20% by 2024. 

Promoting sustainable travel

dnata has embedded its environmental framework across its broad-spanning Travel businesses, aiming to empower customers to make better travel choices. Its corporate services include hybrid event solutions, sustainable travel policy guidance as well as carbon emission monitoring and reporting, aligned to global standards.

dnata Travel Group in the UK has invested in green technologies and introduced new business practices to improve environmental efficiency. It switched to renewable energy to take all electricity from green sources at all of its offices, cut out single-use plastic (SUP) from its operations, reduced paper consumption by 4 million pages annually through its ‘paperless office’ initiative, and implemented a zero to landfill policy to ensure that all non-recyclable waste is sent to energy recovery facilities for processing. Furthermore, it replaced 80% of its fleet with electric or hybrid cars with a target to operate a fully green fleet by 2024.

Mobilising global teams to make a difference

dnata engages and mobilises its employees through its corporate social responsibility programme, dnata4good, to make a positive difference. This May, hundreds of dnata employees around the world teamed up and took part in the company initiative ‘dnata cleans the world’. dnata’s volunteers cleaned beaches, rivers, canals and parks in dozens of countries across the globe.

dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 36 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2021-22, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 527,000 aircraft turns, moved 3 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 39.9 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 632 million.

For the financial year ended 31 March 2022, the Emirates Group posted a loss of AED 3.8 billion (US$ 1.0 billion) compared with an AED 22.1 billion (US$ 6.0 billion) loss for last year. The Group’s revenue was AED 66.2 billion (US$ 18.1 billion), an increase of 86% over last year’s results. The Group’s cash balance was AED 25.8 billion (US$ 7.0 billion), up 30% from last year mainly due to strong demand across its core business divisions and markets, triggered by the easing of pandemic-related restrictions.  

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, said: “This year, we focussed on restoring our operations quickly and safely wherever pandemic-related restrictions eased across our markets. Business recovery picked up pace particularly in the second half of the year. Robust customer demand drove a huge improvement in our financial performance compared to our unprecedented losses of last year and we built up our strong cash balance.

“The health and safety of our people and customers remained a key priority as the world navigated its second full year of the pandemic. Across Emirates and dnata, we responded to dynamic market conditions with agility, and introduced innovative products and services to meet our customers’ needs and provide them with the best possible experience.

“2021-22 was also a significant year as the UAE marked its 50^th anniversary and hosted the world at Expo 2020 Dubai which generated increased global engagement and visitation to the UAE. The Emirates Group was proud to play our part in contributing to the Expo’s success and to the UAE’s jubilee events.”

In 2021-22, Emirates received a further capital injection of AED 3.5 billion (US$ 954 million) from our ultimate shareholder, the Government of Dubai, and the Group tapped on various industry support programmes and availed a total relief of nearly AED 0.8 billion in 2021-22.

As Emirates and dnata ramped up operations, employees previously on furlough or made redundant were recalled and rehired, and new recruitment drives were held to replenish the Group’s talent pool and boost its future capabilities. As a result, the Group’s total workforce increased by 13% to 85,219 employees, representing over 160 different nationalities.

In 2021-22, the Group collectively invested AED 7.9 billion (US$ 2.2 billion) in new aircraft and facilities, and the latest technologies to position the business for recovery and future growth. It also continued to progress its environmental strategy focussed on reducing carbon emissions, consuming resources responsibly, and conserving wildlife and habitats. During the year, the Group supported community, humanitarian and philanthropic initiatives in its various markets, as well as innovation incubators, and other programmes that nurture future solutions for industry growth.

Sheikh Ahmed said: “For the Emirates Group, 2021-22 was largely about recovery, after the toughest year in our Group’s history. It’s not just about restoring our capacity, but also augmenting our future capabilities as we rebuild. Our aim is to build back better and stronger, so that we can deliver even better experiences to our customers and offer more support to the communities we serve.

“We expect the Group to return to profitability in 2022-23, and are working hard to hit our targets, while keeping a close watch on headwinds such as high fuel prices, inflation, new COVID-19 variants, and political and economic uncertainty.

“Our steady investments in infrastructure, technology, people, and partnerships, will continue to give us the ability and advantage in delivering industry-leading products and value to our customers. As Dubai and the UAE move ahead with its strategy for the next 50 years and beyond, the Emirates Group is well positioned to play our role in contributing to economic growth, facilitating global engagement, and making a positive impact on people and communities.”

dnata performance

Recovery from the pandemic was felt across all dnata businesses, and in 2021-22 dnata returned to profitability with a profit of AED 110 million (US$ 30 million).

With growing flight and travel activity across the world, dnata's total revenue increased by 54% to AED 8.6 billion (US$ 2.3 billion). dnata’s international business accounts for 62% of its revenue.  

dnata continued to lay the foundations for future growth with investments in 2021-22 amounting to AED 370 million (US$ 101 million).

During the year, dnata invested significantly in its cargo handling capabilities. It expanded existing facilities in Sydney, Australia; opened a state-of-the-art cargo centre at London Heathrow airport; and announced a fully automated cargo centre to be built at ‘dnata Cargo City’ at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. It also introduced an advanced “OneCargo” system which digitises and automates business and operational functions at its Iraq cargo operations, with plans to roll out the system across its global cargo network.

In 2021-22, dnata’s operating costs increased by 14% to AED 8.4 billion (US$ 2.3 billion), in line with expanded operations in its Airport Operations, Catering and Travel divisions across the world.

dnata’s cash balance improved by AED 208 million to AED 4.9 billion (US$ 1.3 billion). Net cash used in financing activities, primarily payments for loans and leases, amounted to AED 745 million (US$ 203 million), while the business utilised net cash of AED 246 million (US$ 67 million) in essential investing activities. The business saw a positive operating cash flow of AED 1.2 billion (US$ 332 million) in 2021-22, a reflection of the substantial improvements in revenues.

Revenue from dnata’s Airport Operations, including ground and cargo handling increased to AED 5.7 billion (US$ 1.6 billion).

The number of aircraft turns handled by dnata globally grew by 82% to 527,501, cargo handled increased by 10% to 3.0 million tonnes, reflecting the increase in flight activity across the globe as dnata’s customers re-started their operations wherever market restrictions on flights and travel were lifted.

During 2021-22, dnata expanded its global airport operations footprint into Africa. It signed a concession agreement with The Government of Zanzibar, where dnata will oversee the operations of the island’s newly-built international terminal with its partners, including Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR) who will partner with MMI as master concessionaire for all food and beverage, duty free and commercial outlets at the terminal.

marhaba, dnata’s airport hospitality brand, marked its 30^th year of operations with the launch of its signature meet and greet services at four of Australia’s major airports, a new lounge in Zurich Airport, and a re-designed experience at its flagship lounge at Dubai International.

dnata’s Catering business accounted for AED 1.7 billion (US$ 455 million) of dnata’s revenue, up by 60%. The inflight catering business uplifted 39.9 million meals to airline customers, more than double the number of meals from last year, as its airline customers across the world restored their flight operations.

Significant customer wins during the year include BA CityFlyer, which led to dnata Catering launching operations at London City Airport; and the global inflight retail services contract for easyJet where dnata’s team of inflight retail experts will develop and manage bespoke onboard retail programmes and solutions for the airline.

It also saw significant activity in Australia. As the country re-opened its borders to international travellers, dnata worked closely with airline customers to support their resumption of flight operations. dnata Catering also continued to grow its retail food business with ready-made meals developed by Snapfresh Australia launched in Aldi and Costco stores nationwide.

Revenue from dnata’s Travel Services division has significantly grown by 434% to AED 694 million (US$ 189 million). The reported total transaction value (TTV) of travel services sold increased by 912% to AED 2.3 billion (US$ 632 million), a dramatic reversal from last year. These increases reflect last year’s abnormal situation where the business saw high levels of COVID-19-related booking cancellations.

During the year, dnata introduced several new products and services in the UAE, capitalising on its market expertise, Dubai’s open borders for international travel, the city’s hosting of Expo 2020 as well as other major conferences and sporting events.

For its corporate travel customers, dnata partnered with ExpensePoint to offer an advanced expense reporting solution; renewed a partnership with one of the world’s largest VAT reclaim specialists that will bring additional saving opportunities for duty travel claims; and implemented hybrid meetings and events solutions to provide customers a sustainable alternative to hosting corporate engagements during lockdown.

In the UK, dnata’s Travel Republic brand introduced a new ‘Secure Trust Account’ for package holiday customers that guarantees prompt refunds for customers who have to cancel their flight-inclusive package holiday, as funds are kept secure in a separate account.

dnata also launched its Gold Medal brand in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia this year, offering its extensive portfolio of travel products to independent travel agents.

Emirates performance

Emirates’ total passenger and cargo capacity increased by 47% to 36.4 billion ATKMs in 2021-22, as the airline continued to reinstate passenger services across its network in line with the lifting of pandemic-related flight and travel restrictions. 

From 120 destinations at the start of the financial year, to increased operations and capacity growth across over 140 destinations by 31 March 2022, Emirates was able to respond dynamically to serve customer demand wherever opportunities arose, thanks to the resilience of its people and business model. In July, the airline launched a new route to Miami, bringing its total passenger gateways in the US to 12.

To serve the strong rebound in travel demand, Emirates deployed its flagship A380 aircraft to even more cities during the year, bringing its A380 network to 29 destinations as of 31 March 2022.

Helping travellers access even more destinations, in 2021-22, Emirates reinforced its strategic partnerships with Qantas and flydubai, and expanded its interline and codeshare partnerships across Europe, the Americas, Africa and Asia including with: Aeromar, airBaltic, Airlink, Azul, Cemair, Garuda Indonesia, Gulf Air, Maldivian, South African Airways and TAP Air Portugal. Emirates also signed agreements and launched initiatives with tourism partners in various destinations to support travel and tourism recovery.

Emirates received its final five new A380 aircraft during the financial year, all equipped with its latest cabin interiors including Premium Economy seats. It also phased out 2 older aircraft comprising of 1 Boeing 777-300ER and 1 Freighter, leaving its total fleet count at 262 at the end of March. Emirates’ average fleet age remains at a youthful 8.2 years. 

Emirates’ order book of 197 aircraft remains unchanged at this time. The airline is firmly committed to its long-standing strategy of operating a modern and efficient fleet, which underscores its “Fly Better” brand promise, as young aircraft are better for the environment, better for operations, and better for customers.

With significantly enhanced capacity deployment across most markets, Emirates’ total revenue for the financial year increased 91% to AED 59.2 billion (US$ 16.1 billion). Currency fluctuations this year impacted the airline’s profitability negatively by AED 348 million (US$ 95 million).

Total operating costs increased by 30% from last financial year. Cost of ownership (depreciation and amortisation) and fuel cost were the two biggest cost components for the airline in 2021-22, followed by employee cost. Fuel accounted for 23% of operating costs compared to 14% in 2020-21. The airline’s fuel bill more than doubled to AED 13.9 billion (US$ 3.8 billion) compared to the previous year, driven by a higher uplift of 66% in line with capacity expansion and a higher average fuel price which was up by 75%.

With the removal of pandemic-related flight and travel restrictions globally, the airline managed to substantially improve its financial results and reported a loss of AED 3.9 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) after last year’s AED 20.3 billion (US$ 5.5 billion) loss, and a loss margin of 6.6%, significantly improved compared to 65.6% last year.

Emirates carried 19.6 million passengers (up by 199%) in 2021-22, with seat capacity up by 150%. The airline reports a Passenger Seat Factor of 58.6%, compared with last year’s passenger seat factor of 44.3%; and a 10% decline in passenger yield to 35.1 fils (9.6 US cents) per Revenue Passenger Kilometre (RPKM), due to the change in route mix, fares and currency. Seat load factor and yield results cannot be compared against the previous year’s performance due to the ongoing unusual pandemic situation.

Emirates continued to invest in its products and services to deliver ever better customer experiences. This year, it announced a major retrofit programme to equip 120 of its 777 and A380 aircraft with its new Premium Economy seats and the latest cabin interiors.

It also accelerated digital initiatives to provide customers with smoother and safer journeys, from the quick and secure verification of COVID-19 travel documents, to more biometrics and contactless touchpoints at its Dubai hub.

Emirates continued to lead the industry with initiatives that provide customer assurance as travel restrictions eased and more people made travel plans. It extended its generous rebooking waivers and complimentary COVID-19 medical cover for all customers; and introduced new ways for Emirates Skywards members to earn Miles while extending the expiry of miles and tier status. 

In this 2^nd pandemic year, Emirates SkyCargo once again put in a stellar performance and contributed to 40% of the airline’s total transport revenue through its ability to respond rapidly to changing demand patterns in a distorted global marketplace.

Emirates SkyCargo maintained its edge in the global airfreight industry by focusing its customers, bringing innovative solutions to the market, and leveraging its fleet and network capabilities.

Rebuilding its network and capacity, the cargo division intelligently deployed its freighter fleet and belly-hold capacity, to meet customer needs. By 30 June 2021, it had restored services to over 90% of its pre-pandemic network.

During the year, Emirates SkyCargo continued to play an important role in getting COVID-19 vaccines and other medical supplies to communities around the world, and keeping trade lanes open for food supplies, e-commerce and other essential goods. In June 2021, it invested to scale up its pharma cool chain infrastructure in Dubai and by March 2022, Emirates SkyCargo had transported 1 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines.

At the Dubai Airshow 2021, Emirates announced a US$ 1 billion investment to acquire 2 new Boeing 777 freighters and convert 4 existing 777-300ER aircraft into freighters.

With steady and strong air freight demand throughout the year, Emirates’ cargo division reported a new record revenue of AED 21.7 billion (US$ 5.9 billion), an increase of 27% over last year.

Freight yield per Freight Tonne Kilometre (FTKM) decreased by 3% as more cargo capacity returned to the global market, but generally remained at high levels compared to the pandemic marketplace due to steady and strong demand.

Tonnage carried increased by 14% to reach 2.1 million tonnes, due to the growth in available bellyhold capacity for the entire year with the reinstatement of more passenger services. At the end of 2021-22, Emirates’ SkyCargo’s total freighter fleet stood at 10 Boeing 777Fs.

Emirates’ hotels portfolio doubled revenue over last year to AED 602 million (US$ 164 million) as it re-opened more facilities to serve the upswing in tourism traffic and the gradual recovery of the meetings and conferences industry.   

During the year, Emirates successfully restructured and extended various aircraft leases. The support from aviation lessors and financing partners during these challenging times reflect the financial community’s confidence in Emirates’ business model, and its mid to longer term prospects.

In addition to the AED 9.7 billion (US$ 2.6 billion) financing that was raised for aircraft and general corporate purposes in 2021-22, Emirates has already received committed offers to finance two aircraft deliveries due in 2022-23.

Emirates closed the financial year with solid cash assets of AED 20.9 billion (US$ 5.7 billion), 38% higher compared to 31 March 2021.   

The full 2021-22 Annual Report of the Emirates Group – comprising Emirates, dnata and their subsidiaries – is available at: www.theemiratesgroup.com/annualreport

US$ figures are converted at 1US$ = 3.67AED and are based on the AED figures rounded off in millions.

Media Contact:
Valerie Tan, Emirates Group Public Relations
E-mail: valerie.tan@emirates.com

Dubai-based dnata, which incorporates world-leading Travel, Airport Operations, Cargo, Catering & Retail divisions, is taking part in the region’s largest travel industry event with a stand dedicated to all of its operations for the first time this year, as it witnesses strong recovery across its business due to a post-pandemic surge in travel traffic and demand around the world. 

At the stand, located in the Middle East pavilion of ATM, dnata Travel Group brands with an enhanced presence include Arabian Adventures, Yalago, priohub, and Gold Medal, showcasing latest products and services to the global travel market, alongside marhaba, part of dnata’s Airport Operations division, bringing its award-winning marhaba lounge experience from Dubai International airport to the Dubai World Trade Centre. Meanwhile, representatives from across dnata will be on-hand throughout the event, to meet industry partners and customers.

John Bevan, Divisional Senior Vice President at dnata Travel Group, commented: “In 2022, demand for travel is at an all-time high as the world opens up for global tourists once again, and our air and travel services are booming. Locally, we have seen travel bookings grow here in the UAE for the summer break by almost 200% compared to 2021 levels, and we only anticipate this growth will continue.”

Brands representing the dnata Travel Group include Arabian Adventures, one of the region’s leading destination management companies, focused on ambitious growth plans across its operation in 2022, including its award-winning UAE-based desert safaris, tours and experiences, cruise handling, and events services. Yalago, one of the world’s fastest-growing global leisure bedbanks, will discuss its growth plans with its suppliers and customers with a focus on its operational service element, strong technology, and expanding its global inventory. Meanwhile, priohub, the digital B2B attractions marketplace, and Gold Medal, the largest travel consolidator in the Middle East, aim to connect with local and international customers and suppliers, as part of growth plans for 2022 and beyond.

Operating under dnata’s Airport Operations division, dnata’s marhaba brand and its team will showcase key features of its local and international marhaba airport lounge offering. It will also reveal a range of enhanced airport services which it plans to roll out to the public in 2022 with a new, dedicated airport counter at Dubai International airport’s Terminal 1, set to offer visa services, chauffeur and limo services, baggage services, hotel bookings, car rental, and more; all with 24-hour assistance.

Representatives from across dnata are also excited to share their insights and experiences at a number of conference sessions during the event. This includes:

• Alaa Alkhatib, Vice President, Destination Management, dnata Travel Group being interviewed on its first day by Arival on the topic of, ‘Dubai Is Re-Envisioning Distribution. Can It Work?’
• Shaun Anderson, Head of Sales, dnata Travel Management speaking on a panel organised by the Global Business Travel Association on ‘The Future of Business Travel’ (11^th May), and
• Emily Jenkins, General Manager, dnata Travel Leisure speaking on ‘The Return and Rise of City Tourism’ panel organised by TTN Middle East (12^th May).

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, concluded: “At dnata our air and travel services cover all aspects of the industry, from inspiration and booking, to enhanced airport services, in-destination experiences, and beyond. And as part of our strategy to reconnect a better world, we are delighted to welcome the global travel industry to our stand at the Arabian Travel Market 2022.”

Meet the dnata team at Arabian Travel Market, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre between 9^th – 12^th May 2022, at stand ME3240, next to the Emirates Airline stand. 

Group revenue was AED 24.7 billion (US$ 6.7 billion) for the first six months of 2021-22, up 81% from AED 13.7 billion (US$ 3.7 billion) during the same period last year. This strong revenue recovery was underpinned by the easing of travel restrictions worldwide and the corresponding increase in demand for air transport as countries progressed their COVID-19 vaccination programmes. 

The Group is reporting a 2021-22 half-year net loss of AED 5.7 billion (US$ 1.6 billion), substantially improved from its AED 14.1 billion (US$ 3.8 billion) loss for the same period last year.

The Group also reported an EBITDA of AED 5.6 billion (US$ 1.5 billion), a dramatic turnaround from a negative AED 43 million (US$ 12 million) EBITDA during the same period last year, illustrating its strong return to operating profitability.

The Group continued to maintain a healthy cash position which stood at AED 18.8 billion (US$ 5.1 billion) on 30 September 2021, compared to AED 19.8 billion (US$ 5.4 billion) as on 31 March 2021.

His Highness (HH) Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: “As we began our 2021-22 financial year, COVID-19 vaccination programmes were being rolled out at unprecedented scale around the world. Across the Group, we saw operations and demand pick up as countries started to ease travel restrictions. This momentum accelerated over the summer and continues to grow steadily into the winter season and beyond.

“Our cargo transport and handling businesses continued to perform strongly, providing the bedrock upon which we were able to quickly reinstate passenger services. While there’s still some way to go before we restore our operations to pre-pandemic levels and return to profitability, we are well on the recovery path with healthy revenue and a solid cash balance at the end of our first half of 2021-22.

Sheikh Ahmed added: “We would like to thank our customers for their continued support, as well as to all our aviation and travel industry stakeholders and partners for their efforts that have made it possible for international air travel to resume safely and smoothly.”

“Our ability to pivot and pull through the toughest period in our history to date, can be attributed to Emirates’ and dnata’s strong brands, high quality products and services, digital and innovation capabilities, and our amazing people. We intend to continue investing in these core areas to take our business into the future, together with the leaner processes and new technology capabilities that we’ve implemented in the past months.”

The Emirates Group has been able to tap on its own strong cash reserves, and access funding through its Owner and the broader financial community to support its business needs through the unprecedented challenges wrought on the aviation and travel industry by COVID-19. In the first half of 2021-22, its Owner further injected AED 2.5 billion (US$ 681 million) into Emirates by way of an equity investment and they continue to support the airline on its recovery path.

The Emirates Group’s employee base, compared to 31 March 2021, dropped marginally by 2% to an overall count of 73,571 at 30 September 2021. In line with the expected ramp up in capacity and business activities in the coming months, Emirates and dnata have embarked on targeted recruitment drives to support its requirements, prioritising the rehiring of employees previously on furlough or made redundant.

dnata

dnata’s businesses in cargo and ground handling, catering and retail, and travel services saw demand return quickly wherever pandemic-related flight and travel restrictions were eased. Demonstrating the agility and capability of its highly skilled teams, dnata was able to respond quickly to customer needs with high quality services - from supporting its airline customers in reinstating flight operations safely and smoothly, to helping customers book their long-awaited travel plans.

dnata also continued to invest in critical infrastructure to deliver more efficient world class services to its customers. In the first six months of 2021-22, dnata opened a 5,000 square meter workshop dedicated to providing advanced maintenance for airside passenger buses at Dubai airport.

dnata’s revenue, including other operating income, was AED 3.7 billion (US$ 1 billion), a 55% increase compared to AED 2.4 billion (US$ 644 million) last year.

Overall profit for dnata is AED 85 million (US$ 23 million), compared to last year’s loss of AED 1.5 billion (US$ 396 million).

dnata’s airport operations remains the largest contributor to revenue with AED 2.5 billion (US$ 688 million), a 52% increase as compared to the same period last year. Across its operations, the number of aircraft handled by dnata increased sharply by 116% to 222,668, and it handled 1.4 million tonnes of cargo, up 9%.

dnata’s flight catering and retail operation, contributed AED 766 million (US$ 209 million) to its revenue, up 80%. The number of meals uplifted doubled to 16.6 million meals for the first half of the financial year after last year’s 8.3 million.

dnata's travel division contributed AED 147 million (US$ 40 million) to revenue after AED 95 million (US$ 26 million) for the same period last year, up 55%. The division reported an underlying total transactional value (TTV) sales of AED 726 million (US$ 198 million), after an exceptional negative TTV of AED 246 million (US$ 67 million) for the same period last year which was caused by the significant volumes of refunds and pay-out in cancelled customer bookings at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020.

Emirates airline

During the first six months of 2021-22, Emirates took delivery of 2 new A380s and retired 2 older aircraft from its fleet as part of its long-standing strategy to improve overall efficiency, minimise its emissions footprint, and provide high quality customer experiences.

With a clear focus on restoring its passenger network and connections through its Dubai hub, Emirates responded with agility whenever travel restrictions lifted to restart services or layer on additional flights. In July, it launched services to Miami, a new destination, and during the first half of 2021-22, Emirates also activated codeshare and interline partnerships with Airlink, Aeromar, Azul, Cemair and South African Airways to expand connectivity options for customers.

By 30 September, the airline was operating passenger and cargo services to 139 airports, utilising its entire Boeing 777 fleet and 37 A380s.

Emirates also continued to introduce initiatives that improve travel experience, boost customer confidence, and enable secure and efficient operations. In June, Emirates became the first airline to sign up for the worldwide implementation of the IATA Travel Pass, in addition its ongoing investments in additional biometric and other digital verification technologies at Dubai Airport.

For its premium customer and frequent flyers, Emirates reinstated more of its signatures Lounge and Chauffeur Drive services at key airports outside of Dubai, and it also launched an online subscription platform “Skywards+”, to offer its 27 million members easy access to customized rewards and privileges.

Overall capacity during the first six months of the year increased by 66% to 16.3 billion Available Tonne Kilometres (ATKM) due to a substantially expanded flight programme as more countries eased travel and flight restrictions. Capacity measured in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKM), more than tripled by 250%, whilst passenger traffic carried measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometres (RPKM) was up by 335% with average Passenger Seat Factor recovering to 47.9%, compared with last year’s pandemic figure of 38.6%.

Emirates carried 6.1 million passengers between 1 April and 30 September 2021, up 319% from the same period last year. The volume of cargo uplifted at 1.1 million tonnes has increased by 39%, which brings the business back to 90% of pre-pandemic (2019) levels by volume handled. This shows Emirates Skycargo’s outstanding agility and ability to meet the requirements of its customers whether it be for the transport of vaccines and pharmaceuticals, essential goods like food and perishables, or champion horses and high performance cars.

In the first half of 2021-22, Emirates Skycargo boosted its pharma cool chain handling infrastructure with the addition of 94 cool room pallet positions to its existing EU GDP compliant infrastructure at Dubai airport. Emirates Skycargo continues to support the global roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines, having carried over 150 million doses through its Dubai hub by July 2021.

In the first half of the 2021-22 financial year, Emirates loss was AED 5.8 billion (US$ 1.6 billion), compared to last year’s loss of AED 12.6 billion (US$ 3.4 billion). Emirates revenue, including other operating income, of AED 21.7 billion (US$ 5.9 billion) was up 86% compared with the AED 11.7 billion (US$ 3.2 billion) recorded during the same period last year. The strong revenue recovery reflects quick return of passenger demand wherever flight and travel restrictions were eased around the world.

Emirates operating costs increased by 22% against an overall capacity growth of 66%. Fuel costs more than doubled compared to the same period last year. This was primarily due to an 81% higher fuel uplift in line with substantially increased flight operations during the six-month period up to end of September, and also an increase in average oil prices. Fuel, which was the largest component of the airline’s operating cost in pre-pandemic reporting cycles, accounted for 20% of operating costs compared to only 11% in the first six months of last year.

Driven by the significant increase in operations during the six months, Emirates’ EBITDA recovered to AED 5.0 billion (US$ 1.4 billion) compared to AED 290 million (US$ 79 million) for the same period last year.

A highlight for the Group at the prestigious travel industry awards this year includes the success of Arabian Adventures across the following three categories for a second consecutive year: UAE’s Leading Desert Safari Company 2021, UAE’s Leading Destination Management Company 2021, and UAE’s Leading Tour Operator 2021.

Renowned for its UAE-based desert experiences and city tours, Arabian Adventures recently reopened ‘Luxury Desert Camping’ for the 2021/2022 season to the delight of UAE residents and tourists. Recent tour offerings from the brand include innovative game-based city tour ‘Historical Dubai’ working in partnership with Questo, and newly launched private tours of Expo 2020 Dubai.

John Bevan, Divisional Senior Vice President, dnata Travel Group, commented: “We are honoured to be recognised across seven prestigious titles at the World Travel Awards Middle East for 2021. These accolades are part of one of the world’s leading travel industry award programmes, and we are proud to have been acknowledged here amidst what has been one of the most challenging periods in our industry’s history.

“This win marks another positive development in our journey, as the region continues to make clear strides towards recovery. We remain agile in our approach to supporting travellers in their quest to explore more of the world once again, and the range of categories in which we have been successful in today demonstrates our breadth, whilst we continue to grow and evolve to meet changing customer needs.

“dnata Travel Group brands in the Middle East cover every aspect of the travel industry from some of the region’s longest-standing and most respected travel agencies, to quality representation services for more than 30 international airlines in the region. Over the years our brands have earned multiple recognitions for quality and safe services, and we are proud to witness this momentum continue.”

The World Travel Awards serves to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. The awards are voted on by travel and tourism professionals worldwide.

Joining 62 airlines, dnata has committed to increasing the number of women in senior positions and under-represented roles with a target to reach a minimum representation of 25% or increase current levels by a minimum of 25% by 2025 across all divisions. The company will report annually on key diversity metrics. In addition, dnata will be working jointly with IATA and other signatories to increase the representation and nomination of women to IATA governance roles.

Steve Allen, Executive Vice President of dnata, said: ”Diversity has always been a core value at the heart of our organisation, with our people coming from more than 160 nationalities. Over recent years, we have taken several initiatives to empower women across our operations to progress their careers and help them achieve their full potential. We are thrilled to join IATA’s initiative to step up to the next level and play our part in improving gender diversity across the aviation industry.

“We will continue to engage our colleagues at all levels of the organisation to continuously improve while consistently monitoring our performance to achieve our goals. With our dedicated, diverse team we stay focussed on delivering excellence in everything we do to help travellers safely reconnect and discover the world.”

Anton Grove, Vice President People Performance & Development of IATA, said: “I welcome dnata's commitment to 25by2025. Joining the 25by2025 pledge signals the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion to all our aviation partners. By working together with a common goal we will drive real change. I look forward to seeing more ground handling companies joining this effort in the future.“

Across dnata's global operations, women are employed in wide-ranging job roles covering all major operational, commercial and support functions. Women are represented in almost all seniority levels within the company, including executive management as well as various technical roles. These include specialised operational roles such as cargo loadmasters, ramp operations team leaders, turnaround coordinators and flight dispatchers. Over 24% of the women working with dnata have been with the company for 10 years or longer.

A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata provides quality and safe ground handling, cargo, catering and travel services in 35 countries. In the financial year 2020-21 dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled 290,000 aircraft, moved 2.7 million tons of cargo, and uplifted some 17 million meals.

Ailsa will assume responsibility for all of dnata Travel Group’s UK-based brands (Gold Medal, Travel Republic, Travelbag, Netflights and Sunmaster) as the head of a leadership team and workforce numbering nearly 800 people.

As a key member of the leadership team for dnata Travel Group, part of the Emirates Group, during the last 12 years, she’s held a variety of senior roles. These include, Vice President - Business Development and Strategy, heading the team that oversaw the acquisition of and holding board positions on many of the businesses that now form the Group’s UK portfolio; and four years as Senior Vice President - Emirates Holidays, in which she oversaw the brand’s global operations across 36 markets. Most recently, as Senior Vice President - Transformation (Global) & Consumer Businesses (ME&I), she had responsibility for the dnata Travel consumer travel brand in the UAE, and overseeing a complete strategic review and transformation of dnata Travel Group’s global portfolio of brands through COVID, driving operational efficiencies and strategic clarity to support the delivery of its post-pandemic vision of ‘reconnecting a better world’.

Commenting on her appointment, John Bevan, dnata’s Divisional Senior Vice President for Travel, said: “We’re delighted that another part of the dnata Travel family will now be able to benefit from Ailsa’s expertise and leadership. I’ve had the pleasure of working with her for a number of years and know our team in the UK – as well as our valued industry partners – will enjoy working with her and will go on, together, to achieve great things.

“These are challenging times for all UK travel businesses, and need clear headedness, agility, honesty and commitment to navigate. Ailsa has all of those qualities, as well as decisive strategic vision, a passion for the customer and operational know-how. Our UK organisation couldn’t be in safer hands.”

Ailsa Pollard said: “I’m looking forward to working with the UK team to emerge stronger from the pandemic. I know how tough the last 18 months have been on our people, our brands, our customers and our partners, but we have very strong foundations and the support of a global business on which we can collectively build an exciting future.”

About dnata Travel Group:
The dnata Travel Group represents the travel division of dnata, one of the world’s largest air and travel services providers. Part of The Emirates Group, the group’s history is rooted in Dubai and the growth of its pioneering travel industry, evolving to consist of more than 30 leading international travel brands with coverage across the world. The dnata Travel Group is proud to serve its global customers as a leading, award-winning travel services provider with long-standing travel expertise, a wide range of products and services, and high standards of service and safety across all of its operations. Its global businesses cover all aspects of the travel industry from local travel agencies, to global travel consolidators, corporate travel, sports travel, destination management and attractions, airline representation services, and more.

dnata’s 8,500 highly trained staff will provide the highest level of service and safety to 85 airlines and their passengers across three terminals, including Terminal 1 that has recently reopened to accommodate the anticipated growth in demand for travel.

During June, July and August dnata expects to handle over 6,300 flights in Dubai from around the world. This volume means the dnata teams at DXB will handle a flight every 21 minutes, on average.

The people resources required for a turnaround varies; a Boeing 737 takes 16 people, while the A380 super jumbo requires at least 52 people, and is a coordinated effort. Each member of the dnata team has a role they need to execute with extreme precision to ensure the aircraft is ready for its next journey and next group of passengers, baggage and cargo.

Jaffar Dawood, dnata’s Senior Vice President for DXB Airline Services, said: “Although it may take longer than originally predicted, we have no doubts that international travel will return. People will travel to see their friends and families for the first time in years, businesses will once again meet across borders to collaborate, and explorers will return to discovering the world. With our dedicated team, we are prepared to help all individuals and businesses safely reconnect across the world through Dubai and our other hubs by consistently delivering best-in-class services for them at every stage of their journey.”

dnata has been working closely with Dubai Airports to maximise safety for passengers throughout their airport journey, from check-in to boarding. Check-in desks at the airport are installed with protective barriers and expanded waiting areas help passengers observe social distancing. The boarding process is facilitated by dnata’s boarding agents who wear the required PPE and ensure that passengers board in small numbers.

dnata has also enhanced its aircraft cabin cleaning services. The process involves extensive cleaning with a stronger disinfectant, and includes a comprehensive wipedown of all surfaces. The on-board cleaning chemicals are approved by the relevant authorities and proven to kill viruses and germs. They leave a long-lasting protective coating against new contamination of viruses, bacteria and fungi on surfaces, and are eco-friendly. A dedicated quality team and shift managers oversee the cleaning on the majority of flights.

In addition to its ground and passenger handling services, dnata also provides innovative Home Check-in, Meet & Greet and Lounge services for passengers through its airport hospitality brand, marhaba. Taking advantage of marhaba’s innovative solutions, customers can enjoy complete peace of mind throughout their journey, from a quick and easy home check-in process, including COVID-19 testing, to the delivery of their disinfected baggage at their destination airport.

marhaba has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of passengers amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Each Meet & Greet agent has been thoroughly trained on health and safety protocols, and wears a mask and abides by social distancing guidelines while assisting passengers at the airports. marhaba's chauffeurs also adhere to safety protocols, and the cars undergo strict disinfecting procedures after each trip.

marhaba has reopened 4 airport lounges at DXB. All lounges offer touchless payment options and frequently undergo increased cleaning and sanitisation with a specific focus on high-touch surfaces. Senior travellers and their family member can enjoy the services in designated zones.

A global air services provider and the trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, catering and travel services in 35 countries. In the financial year 2020-21 dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled 290,000 aircraft, moved 2.7 million tons of cargo, and uplifted some 17 million meals.