Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid reviews Emirates’ new fleet A350 at Dubai Airport

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, made a special visit to Dubai International Airport to inspect Emirates’ latest addition to its fleet, the cutting-edge Airbus A350. The visit comes as part of the airline’s ongoing expansion efforts and marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Emirates' fleet.

Sheikh Mohammed explored the Airbus A350's advanced tech and next-generation onboard products in the A350WAM

During the inspection, Sheikh Mohammed explored the Airbus A350's advanced design, cutting-edge technologies, and next-generation onboard products. Emirates' A350, built with 70% advanced materials, including 53% composites, promises to offer not only a more efficient flying experience but also a more sustainable one. With its lighter structure, the aircraft significantly reduces fuel consumption and lowers its carbon footprint, aligning with Emirates' commitment to eco-friendly innovation.

The aircraft is designed to accommodate 312 passengers, with 32 lie-flat Business Class seats, 21 Premium Economy seats, and 259 generously pitched Economy Class seats. The A350’s enhanced comfort features aim to set new standards in passenger experience, offering more space and a smoother ride for travelers.

Sheikh Mohammed was also briefed on Emirates’ plans for the A350’s integration into the airline’s growing networkWAM

The first Emirates A350 aircraft will fly to Edinburgh for its first commercial service on 3 January, and will subsequently serve eight other cities in the Midde East/GCC, West Asia and Europe before the end of 2025.

Sheikh Mohammed was also briefed on Emirates’ plans for the A350’s integration into the airline’s growing network, which supports Dubai’s broader economic ambitions. The discussions highlighted how the aircraft will contribute to Emirates’ fleet expansion, ensuring the airline’s continued leadership in global aviation.

Emirates is key to Dubai’s strategy to become a major hub for international business and tourism, with the A350 expected to enhance connectivity to new markets around the world.The airline’s growth is also in line with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33, which aims to expand the emirate’s economic footprint by over 400 cities.

“The continued expansion of Emirates and Dubai’s aviation sector reflects our commitment to advancing global competitiveness in air travel, Through innovation and excellence, we are setting new benchmarks for the global aviation industry, ensuring Dubai remains a leader in this critical field, said Sheikh Mohammed"

With a contribution of AED 75 billion to Dubai’s GDP, Emirates remains the largest player in the city’s aviation sector, directly employing 114,000 people.

Emirates remains the largest player in the city’s aviation sector.WAM

As part of its mission to further strengthen Dubai’s economic standing, Emirates’ new fleet additions like the Airbus A350 are poised to open up new markets and support the city’s ambitions to be at the heart of the new global economy.