Emirates’ 2025 year in review highlights fleet expansion, Asian network growth, Premium Economy rollout, technology upgrades and service developments, as the airline carried 55.6 million passengers and marked its 40th year.
Emirates closed 2025 having carried 55.6 million customers across nearly 180,580 flights, collectively circling the globe more than 29,000 times. During the year, the airline also placed orders for 73 new aircraft and marked its 40th anniversary of operations in October. Beyond the milestone, 2025 reflected a year of fleet expansion, network growth, technology investment and service development.
A major fleet development was the entry into service of the Emirates A350 in early January, with Edinburgh operating the inaugural commercial flight. By the end of the year, 16 A350 aircraft were serving 18 cities across Europe, West Asia, the Middle East, Australia and other regions, with Montreal scheduled to join the network in February 2026.
Emirates also expanded its footprint in Asia during 2025, launching non-stop daily services to Shenzhen and Hangzhou in mainland China, alongside new routes to Danang in Vietnam and Siem Reap in Cambodia via Bangkok. These additions were aligned with rising travel and trade demand across East Asia and China.
Premium Economy continued to be rolled out across the fleet, with additional Airbus A350s and retrofitted Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft entering service. By the end of 2025, close to 70 cities were served by more than 100 aircraft offering Premium Economy, accounting for around 40% of the passenger fleet.
In connectivity, Emirates announced the rollout of Starlink Wi-Fi across 232 aircraft at the Dubai Airshow. Installation began with Boeing 777 aircraft, with A380 installations scheduled to follow in early 2026. The airline stated that over 123 aircraft are expected to offer complimentary ultra-fast connectivity by the end of next year.
Sports sponsorship remained a prominent area of activity. Emirates signed or renewed nine major partnerships in 2025, including a seven-year agreement with FC Bayern Munich, a long-term extension with World Rugby through 2035, and new or renewed deals spanning football, rugby, basketball, tennis and cycling.
The airline also launched Emirates Courier Express, a direct cross-border delivery service using passenger aircraft. By year-end, the service covered 10 international markets, including Australia and Germany, handling more than 50,000 packages with an average delivery time of three days.
Emirates Skywards marked its 25th anniversary in 2025. The loyalty programme reached 37 million members globally and continued to expand its partner network, with members redeeming more than 800 flight rewards daily.
On accessibility, Emirates became the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™, training more than 30,000 staff. The airline also introduced travel rehearsal programmes, onboard sensory products and further accessibility-focused service enhancements.
The year also saw continued investment in premium services and training. Emirates opened its Centre of Hospitality Excellence in Dubai, expanded First Class ground and onboard offerings, and introduced updated products for families and children.
Across awards and industry recognition, Emirates received 25 accolades during the year, reflecting performance across customer experience, inflight entertainment and premium travel categories.