Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visits Emirates Group in April 2026. ARCHIVE

Emirates Group has awarded employees a 20-week salary bonus following a year of record financial performance, significantly exceeding the previously expected 13-week payout tied to performance targets. In a message to staff, Emirates Group Chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum praised employees for their resilience and dedication during what he described as one of the most challenging periods in the company’s history. “March 2026 will fade into memory, but we will never forget your bravery and incredible resilience,” Sheikh Ahmed said. “You were called upon during one of the most complex and challenging times in our history, and you showed up with commitment and passion. For that, I will remain forever grateful to you.” He also thanked employees for being “the most extraordinary colleagues and partners any leader could wish for.” Despite operational challenges earlier this year, Emirates retained its position as the world’s most profitable airline after posting record profit before tax. According to Sheikh Ahmed, the financial year unfolded in two sharply contrasting phases. “In the first 11 months, we advanced our strategic priorities,” he said. “However, overnight from March 1, we were facing an unprecedented situation and fighting to restart our hub operations.” He noted that despite the disruptions, the company still closed the year by “breaking almost every financial record to date” while achieving all-time high profit and revenue figures. The airline group also strengthened its cash reserves to record levels, he added. Sheikh Ahmed acknowledged that even with sophisticated contingency plans in place, the scale of operational and safety disruptions created major uncertainty. “Thousands of our customers in Dubai and our outstations relied on us to reach their homes, families and businesses, tackle emergencies and transport essential goods,” he said. He also praised UAE authorities for prioritising traveller and resident safety during the crisis. “With the creation of a safe air corridor, we marshalled our people and resources across Emirates and dnata to restart operations in a limited way,” Sheikh Ahmed said. “Momentum returned. Our operations stabilised, and Emirates was flying 58 per cent of its capacity by 31 March.” He singled out cargo teams across Emirates and dnata for their role in transporting essential supplies across the UAE and the wider region. Looking ahead, Sheikh Ahmed dismissed criticism suggesting Dubai or Emirates was in decline. “To all critics who believe Dubai and the Emirates Group are in decline, we've heard this before and proved them wrong every time,” he said. “We're coming back bigger, better and bolder as we always do after a crisis.” He acknowledged continuing challenges, including unresolved regional conflicts, supply chain pressures, and rising fuel and insurance costs, but expressed confidence in the group’s recovery plans. “There is a renewed sense of energy, pride in the city and optimism in its future,” he said. “Emirates will soon operate flight schedules as normal. We will continue to take delivery of aircraft on order and progress apace on the retrofit programme.” He concluded by encouraging employees to remain confident in the future of both Dubai and the Emirates Group. “Take confidence in our resilience and our ability to bounce back, no matter what,” Sheikh Ahmed said. “Above all, back yourself and continue to lead the way as the best professionals in the business.” ICA/Expat Media
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