Emirates is widely regarded as one of the world’s premier airlines. Over the years, it has built a reputation for outstanding service and onboard experience, earning trust from passengers globally.
Ready for takeoff? Let’s depart into the world of this leading airline. Here are 15 facts about Emirates, covering topics such as its history and current operations.
1. When was Emirates founded?
Emirates was established in March 1985 with the support of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, and the vice president and prime minister of the UAE.
2. The airline began operations a few months later
Just seven months after forming, the airline began operations out of Dubai.
3. Emirates’ main hub
Dubai International Airport is the main hub for Emirates.
The airport’s third terminal was exclusively built for the carrier, costing US$4.5 billion.
4. The airline is one of two flag carriers in the UAE
Emirates and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways both serve as flag carriers for the UAE.
5. Emirates is the largest airline in the Middle East
There are a handful of airlines operating in the Middle East – such as Etihad Airways, Gulf Air, and Qatar Airways – but Emirates is the largest of the bunch, operating over 3,000 flights per week.
6. The airline is a subsidiary of The Emirates Group
Emirates is a part of The Emirates Group, which also owns companies such as Emirates SkyCargo and Dnata. TEG is state-owned.
7. How many aircraft do Emirates have in its fleet?
As of the summer of 2023, Emirates had 249 aircraft in its fleet, including Airbus A380-800s, Boeing 777-200LRs, and Boeing 777-300ERs.
The airline also has over 300 aircraft on order.
8. The airline serves over 150 destinations
Emirates has an extensive route map, serving destinations in Europe, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania, and Asia.
9. Emirates is the largest operator of the Airbus A380
As it stands, Emirates has 116 Airbus A380-800s in its fleet, making it the largest operator of the aircraft in the world.
10. Largest operator of the Boeing 777
The airline is also the largest operator of the Boeing 777-300ER, with 123 in its fleet.
11. Who is the president of Emirates?
British-born businessman Tim Clark is the current president of Emirates.
Clark has held that executive position with the airline since January 2003.
12. The Chairman and CEO of Emirates
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, an Emirati businessman and member of the ruling House of Maktoum in Dubai, serves as the Chairman and CEO of Emirates.
He is also the President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.
13. The airline is not a part of any airline alliance
Currently, Emirates is not a part of any airline alliance.
However, the airline maintains several codeshare agreements with carriers, including United and Qantas.
14. Emirates operates one of the longest flights in the world
The airline’s Auckland to Dubai flight, operated with an Airbus A380-800, is currently the 8th longest flight in the world, with a duration of 17 hours and 45 minutes.
15. The airline has a frequent flyer program
The frequent flyer program of Emirates is called Emirates Skywards.
The scheme has four tier levels, with each having various benefits and advantages.
This article was updated on October 9, 2024.
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