By Desmond Nleya
Dubai, October 25, 2025 — Forty years ago today, on October 25, 1985, a new chapter in aviation history began when Emirates took off from Dubai on its very first flight to the world. What started with just two leased aircraft has since transformed into a global aviation powerhouse — a symbol of Dubai’s ambition, innovation, and connection to the world.
On this milestone occasion, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, took to X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate Emirates on its remarkable 40-year journey.
“Forty years ago, Emirates took off from Dubai on its first flight to the world. It wasn’t just the beginning of an airline, it was the start of a journey of ambition that never stopped,” Sheikh Hamdan wrote. “From two leased aircraft to a fleet of 267, from four destinations to 152 cities, and from 300,000 passengers to over 53 million a year. Today, Emirates is not only the world’s best airline, it’s a bridge that connects people, cultures, and dreams.”
Sheikh Hamdan extended heartfelt gratitude to HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and the entire Emirates team, commending their vision and tireless efforts that have helped make Dubai a global hub of connectivity and possibility.
“Your dedication has made Dubai a global hub of connection and possibility, and your ambition continues to carry us to new heights,” he added.
Since its inaugural flight in 1985, Emirates has redefined global air travel, setting new benchmarks in comfort, innovation, and service. From humble beginnings serving just a handful of destinations, the airline now flies to over 150 cities across six continents, with a fleet of 267 modern aircraft.
Beyond numbers, Emirates has played a transformative role in shaping Dubai’s global identity — fueling tourism, trade, and economic growth, while bringing the world closer together.
As Emirates marks four decades of excellence, the airline stands as a proud symbol of what vision and perseverance can achieve — a story of a city that dared to dream, and an airline that continues to take those dreams to the skies.
