Emirates is set to expand its reach by connecting Dubai to more cities than ever before. At the Dubai Airshow 2023, the airline announced a major order for 95 additional wide-body aircraft, bringing its total order to 295 planes. This new order includes Boeing 777-9s, 777-8s, and 787s, valued at $52 billion. This move will allow Emirates to maintain a modern and efficient fleet and enhance the flying experience for its customers.

During the airshow, the order was formally signed in the presence of several key figures, including the Crown Prince of Dubai, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and other distinguished members of Dubai’s leadership. The agreement was signed by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, alongside key executives from Boeing and GE Aerospace.

HH Sheikh Ahmed emphasized that Emirates’ business strategy has always been to operate efficient wide-body aircraft capable of long-distance travel. The new aircraft will support Dubai’s economic agenda, D33, which aims to add 400 cities to Dubai’s foreign trade map over the next decade. By the early 2030s, the Emirates fleet is expected to grow to around 350 aircraft, significantly increasing the number of cities it connects to Dubai.

Emirates, the largest operator of Boeing 777 aircraft, has placed firm orders for 55 additional 777-9s and 35 777-8s, bringing its total 777-X order to 205 units. The airline also confirmed an order of 202 GE9X engines to power these new aircraft. The first 777-9 from a previous order is expected to be delivered in 2025, and Emirates will induct new 777-9s until 2035. Additionally, Emirates will be among the first to receive the new 777-8 passenger variant, with deliveries starting in 2030.

HH Sheikh Ahmed reiterated that the Boeing 777 has been central to Emirates’ global network strategy, enabling non-stop flights to cities on all continents from Dubai. The latest order reinforces their partnership with Boeing and prepares Emirates for future growth.

Stan Deal, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, hailed the order as a testament to the 777X family’s efficiency and versatility, suitable for Emirates’ global long-haul travel needs. The new 777-9s and 777-8s will replace Emirates’ retiring aircraft, ensuring the airline’s long-term growth.

Additionally, Emirates has updated its previous order of Boeing 787-9s, increasing its commitment to a total of 35 Dreamliners, including 15 Boeing 787-10s and 20 Boeing 787-8s.

Currently, Emirates operates an all wide-body fleet, including the iconic Airbus A380 and the popular Boeing 777. Based in Dubai, the airline serves over 140 cities on six continents, offering award-winning services both in-flight and on the ground.

Paul Johnson, the article’s author, is an experienced travel industry professional and Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog, renowned for its high quality and luxury travel content.