Emirates (airline)
Flag carrier of Dubai; world's largest long haul airline.
Emirates is one of the two flag carrier airlines of the United Arab Emirates, based in Al Garhoud, Dubai. Founded on 15 March 1985 with backing from Dubai's royal family, the airline rapidly expanded its fleet and destinations, becoming the world's third-largest airline by scheduled revenue passenger-kilometers flown and the second-largest in terms of freight tonne-kilometers flown.
- founded
- 15 March 1985
- headquarters
- Al Garhoud, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- field
- Commercial aviation
- nationality
- United Arab Emirates
Lore & Background
Emirates was founded in March 1985 after Gulf Air began cutting back services to Dubai. With $10 million in start-up capital from Dubai's government, it was required to operate independently of subsidies. Its first two aircraft were provided by Pakistan International Airlines, which also supplied free training for cabin crew at Karachi Airport. The airline was founded by Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who remains chairman. During the Gulf War, Emirates was the only airline to continue flying in the last ten days of the conflict, which helped boost its business. The airline recorded a profit every year except its second, and growth never fell below 20% annually. In its first 11 years, it doubled in size every 3.5 years, and every four years since.
Reader's Guide
Emirates has played a central role in establishing Dubai as a global aviation hub. Its rapid expansion, averaging 30% annual growth in early years, challenged legacy carriers and sparked controversy over open-skies policies. Its financial success—paying dividends since 1999—demonstrated a profitable model without ongoing government subsidies. Emirates' environmental initiatives include a $200 million investment in alternative fuel research and claims of lower emissions per passenger-kilometer. Its branding, uniforms, and sponsorships have made it a recognizable global brand.
Did You Know?
- Emirates was founded with $10 million in start-up capital and required to operate independently of government subsidies.
- During the Gulf War, Emirates was the only airline to continue flying in the last ten days of the conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Emirates (airline)?
Emirates is a United Arab Emirates-based commercial airline headquartered in Al Garhoud, Dubai, and serves as one of the nation's two flag carriers. It was launched in March 1985 with financial backing from Dubai's ruling family and has since grown into the world's biggest long-haul operator.
When was Emirates founded and who backed it?
Emirates was established on 15 March 1985 with direct financial support from Dubai's royal family. It rapidly scaled its fleet and route network in the years that followed, becoming the dominant carrier in the Middle East.
Why is Emirates considered a major player in global aviation?
As the largest airline in the Middle East and the top long-haul carrier on the planet, Emirates fundamentally reshaped how distant markets connect through its Dubai hub. It also holds the second-largest position worldwide in freight tonne-kilometers flown.
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