Emirates closes a successful ATM 2026, inking over 30 partnerships, rolls out new Premium Economy seat as standout product
Over 30 partnerships signed across 16 countries, spanning tourism boards, education, medical travel, sports, marine crew travel, and business councils.
Premium Economy debut:
Emirates unveiled its first electrically powered Premium Economy seat, which drew thousands of visitors at the stand. Other showcased products included the A380 Shower Spa, Boeing 777 Game Changer First Class Suite, and A350 cabins with the U-Dream headrest.
Tourism collaborations:
New agreements with Kenya, Mozambique, Finland, Norway, Italy, Spain, Malaysia, Japan, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Seychelles, Mauritius, Madagascar, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah.
New segments tapped:
Partnerships in education (Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority, ICEF), medical tourism (Medical Tourism Association), sports (Cutting Edge), marine crew travel (MSC Cruises, Cisalpina Tours), and worker/travel communities (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Huawei, Alibaba Fliggy, DERTOUR Group, Emirates Islamic, Al Etihad Payments).
Codeshare expansion:
Emirates and Kuwait Airways extended their interline partnership into a reciprocal codeshare.
Awards & Recognition
- World Travel Awards Middle East 2026: Four honors including Leading Airline – First Class and Leading Airline Brand.
- Independent Travel Awards 2026: Best Long-Haul Airline.
- Al Rehla Golden Travel Award in the UAE.
Outlook
Emirates is operating at 93% of pre-disruption capacity, reflecting strong recovery in demand. The event also highlighted Dubai’s broader tourism and aviation growth trajectory.
