Emirates Ends Dubai Airshow With Big Bets on Growth and Next-Gen Aviation Tech

 

Emirates wrapped up the Dubai Airshow with sweeping announcements that underscored its ambition to dominate long-haul travel and support the UAE’s push to build a global aerospace industry. The airline unveiled major aircraft orders, new cabin technologies, expanded partnerships and investments aimed at strengthening Dubai’s position as a critical aviation hub.

More than 82,000 visitors toured the airline’s broadest ever lineup of Airbus A380s, A350s and Boeing 777s. Over 15,000 experienced Emirates’ first aircraft equipped with high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi, a centrepiece of the carrier’s next wave of customer upgrades.

 Emirates Makes a US$41.4 Billion Bet on Future Demand

The headline announcement was a massive commitment to future fleet growth. Emirates ordered 65 Boeing 777-9 jets and eight Airbus A350-900s valued at US$41.4 billion, increasing its total wide-body order book to 375 aircraft scheduled for delivery through 2038. The deal signals the airline’s confidence in long-term travel demand and Dubai’s role as a global connector linking Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas.

 New Cabin Upgrades Target Premium Experience

Emirates used the Airshow to signal a renewed push on product innovation.
The airline showcased Starlink satellite Wi-Fi and confirmed plans to install the system on 232 aircraft over the next two years. It also announced a deep retrofit of 111 existing aircraft with redesigned cabins, refreshed interiors and next-generation entertainment systems. The upgrades are aimed at protecting Emirates’ lead in the high-yield long-haul market.

 Network Expansion Through Stronger Partnerships

Emirates strengthened its route and partnerships strategy, securing new and extended agreements with key global airlines.
The carrier signed a reciprocal codeshare with South African Airways and renewed its wide-ranging partnership with Air Canada until 2032. It also highlighted its fast-growing cooperation with flydubai, which continues to underpin Dubai’s rapid network expansion.

Progress on Sustainable Fuel and Airspace Efficiency

The airline signed an MoU with ENOC to explore a viable supply chain for sustainable aviation fuel in Dubai, a step considered essential for the UAE’s net-zero ambitions.
Emirates also partnered with dans and Thales to study technology that reduces arrival holding time at Dubai International Airport, supporting more efficient and lower-emission airspace operations.

 AI Integration and New Logistics Technology

Emirates announced a partnership with OpenAI to roll out ChatGPT Enterprise across the organisation, supported by training programmes to embed AI in operations and customer service.
In air cargo, Emirates SkyCargo signed an MoU with LODD Autonomous to explore unmanned hybrid heavy-lift aircraft, signalling early moves into next-generation logistics systems.

Manufacturing and MRO Investments Strengthen UAE Aerospace Base

A series of industrial agreements broadened Dubai’s capabilities in manufacturing and maintenance.
Emirates and Safran Seats will establish Dubai’s first aircraft seat production facility, initially focused on Business and Economy seats for Emirates’ retrofit programme.
The carrier also signed an MoU with CCE Group to co-develop future cabin and cargo systems, while expanding opportunities for UAE-based engineering and manufacturing.

A new partnership with Rolls-Royce will allow Emirates to perform Trent 900 engine maintenance for its A380 fleet from 2027, supported by a purpose-built facility. The TotalCare partnership now extends into the 2040s.

In a milestone for the UAE, Emirates Engineering secured the country’s first Design Organisation Approval, giving it authority to certify major aircraft modifications locally.

 Industry Recognition Underscores Strong Momentum

Emirates collected several major honours during the week, including Best Airline in the World at the ULTRAs for the eighth year in a row, along with Airline of the Year and Best First Class of the Year at the Aviation Business Middle East Awards.

A Clear Statement of Intent

Through bold fleet investments, advanced cabin products, new partnerships, and expanding industrial capabilities, Emirates used the Dubai Airshow to send a clear signal:
the airline intends to shape the next chapter of global aviation, while the UAE positions itself as a rising force in the aerospace value chain.