The Emirates Group

The Emirates Group is a Dubai-based multinational aviation holding company wholly owned by the Investment Corporation of Dubai, the sovereign wealth fund of the Government of Dubai.

Founded in 1985, the group originated with the launch of Emirates airline, which was established with backing from Dubai's royal family to create an independent airline based in Dubai.

Starting with a modest fleet and routes to Karachi and Mumbai, Emirates rapidly expanded its network across six continents, growing into one of the world's largest international airlines by passenger numbers and fleet size.

The company's early success benefited from Dubai’s strategic positioning as a global transit hub and regulatory support, combined with aggressive fleet expansion and a focus on high-quality service.

Beyond its core airline operations, the Emirates Group diversified extensively, operating through numerous subsidiaries spanning airport services, cargo handling, catering, engineering, ground handling, travel and tour operations, and event management.

The group’s largest subsidiary remains Emirates airline, renowned for its premium products, including a modern fleet featuring the world’s largest Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 fleets. The group includes dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers, offering cargo, catering, and ground handling across multiple countries.

The Emirates Group’s headquarters moved to a purpose-built campus in Dubai in 2008, symbolizing its growth to over 100,000 employees globally.

The group has historically maintained a strong financial position, reporting consistent profitability and paying significant dividends to the Dubai government, which made an initial modest investment. The leadership under Chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum has been a key factor in the group’s expansion, focusing on innovation, customer experience, and strategic global partnerships.

The Emirates Group continues to play a crucial role in Dubai’s economic diversification strategy, promoting tourism, trade, and investment while advancing aviation technology and sustainability initiatives worldwide.