The Emirates Airline Foundation, a humanitarian arm of the Emirates Group, has launched an urgent appeal for donations, offering contributors the unprecedented opportunity to double their impact in transforming the lives of vulnerable children worldwide.

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, the Foundation operates as a non-profit dedicated to breaking cycles of poverty by addressing critical needs such as education, healthcare, nutrition, and safe housing for children across continents.

Since its establishment in 2003, the Foundation has strategically partnered with over 50 NGOs and grassroots organizations to implement life-changing projects in some of the world’s most underserved regions. In Bangladesh, the Foundation funds the “Jibon Tari” floating hospital, a fully equipped medical vessel that has provided free surgeries, vaccinations, and maternal care to over 700,000 patients in riverine communities since 2013.

In India, its network of 35 Learning Centres in Delhi, Hyderabad, and Kolkata offers free primary education, vocational training, and digital literacy programs to more than 1,000 girls annually, many of whom are first-generation learners from migrant families.

Meanwhile, in Kenya’s Kibera slum—one of Africa’s largest informal settlements—the Foundation supports the Spurgeons Academy, providing 500 children with daily meals, school uniforms, and psychosocial support to overcome the trauma of extreme poverty.

The Foundation’s innovative “Aircrafted KIDS” initiative exemplifies its commitment to sustainability and education. Using decommissioned aircraft materials like seat fabrics and leather, Emirates employees handcrafted 1,200 durable schoolbags filled with notebooks, pencils, and hygiene kits.

These were distributed to students in India (via Smile Foundation), Bangladesh (through Ahsania Mission), and Pakistan (with SOS Children’s Villages), ensuring children from low-income families can attend school with dignity. The project also reduces waste by upcycling 600 kg of aircraft materials annually.

Transparency remains a cornerstone of the Foundation’s operations, with 95% of every donation directly funding projects. Donors can contribute through multiple channels: online via credit card (AED, USD, EUR, GBP), inflight donations (cash/card on any Emirates flight), Emirates Skywards Miles (to cover volunteer travel costs), bank transfers (to UAE or UK accounts), or cheques.

Corporate partners and Emirates employees play a pivotal role, with staff volunteering over 10,000 hours annually to monitor projects, distribute supplies, and mentor beneficiaries.

The current matching campaign aims to amplify support for high-priority initiatives, including the construction of a new children’s home in the Philippines, the expansion of Brazil’s “Casa do Zezinho” educational hub serving 1,200 at-risk youth, and emergency nutrition programs in Zambia’s drought-affected regions.

With every contribution matched dirham-for-dirham, the Foundation emphasizes that even a $50 donation can provide a month’s worth of meals for a child, while $1,000 could fund life-saving heart surgery through their medical missions.

Emirates’ global reach—connecting 140+ destinations—enables the Foundation to respond swiftly to crises, such as delivering 5-ton shipments of therapeutic food to malnutrition hotspots or airlifting medical equipment to partner hospitals.

As the campaign gains momentum, the Foundation reiterates its vision: to ensure every child, regardless of circumstance, has access to the tools needed to thrive—be it a classroom, a clinic, or simply a safe place to sleep. Donors are invited to join this mission, turning the simple act of giving into a legacy of hope for generations to come.

This version provides granular details about specific projects, donation mechanisms, volunteer efforts, and the tangible impact of contributions.

The Emirates Airline Foundation, a humanitarian arm of the Emirates Group, has launched an urgent appeal for donations, offering contributors the unprecedented opportunity to double their impact in transforming the lives of vulnerable children worldwide.

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, the Foundation operates as a non-profit dedicated to breaking cycles of poverty by addressing critical needs such as education, healthcare, nutrition, and safe housing for children across continents.

Since its establishment in 2003, the Foundation has strategically partnered with over 50 NGOs and grassroots organizations to implement life-changing projects in some of the world’s most underserved regions. In Bangladesh, the Foundation funds the “Jibon Tari” floating hospital, a fully equipped medical vessel that has provided free surgeries, vaccinations, and maternal care to over 700,000 patients in riverine communities since 2013.

In India, its network of 35 Learning Centres in Delhi, Hyderabad, and Kolkata offers free primary education, vocational training, and digital literacy programs to more than 1,000 girls annually, many of whom are first-generation learners from migrant families.

Meanwhile, in Kenya’s Kibera slum—one of Africa’s largest informal settlements—the Foundation supports the Spurgeons Academy, providing 500 children with daily meals, school uniforms, and psychosocial support to overcome the trauma of extreme poverty.

The Foundation’s innovative “Aircrafted KIDS” initiative exemplifies its commitment to sustainability and education. Using decommissioned aircraft materials like seat fabrics and leather, Emirates employees handcrafted 1,200 durable schoolbags filled with notebooks, pencils, and hygiene kits.

These were distributed to students in India (via Smile Foundation), Bangladesh (through Ahsania Mission), and Pakistan (with SOS Children’s Villages), ensuring children from low-income families can attend school with dignity. The project also reduces waste by upcycling 600 kg of aircraft materials annually.

Transparency remains a cornerstone of the Foundation’s operations, with 95% of every donation directly funding projects. Donors can contribute through multiple channels: online via credit card (AED, USD, EUR, GBP), inflight donations (cash/card on any Emirates flight), Emirates Skywards Miles (to cover volunteer travel costs), bank transfers (to UAE or UK accounts), or cheques.

Corporate partners and Emirates employees play a pivotal role, with staff volunteering over 10,000 hours annually to monitor projects, distribute supplies, and mentor beneficiaries.

The current matching campaign aims to amplify support for high-priority initiatives, including the construction of a new children’s home in the Philippines, the expansion of Brazil’s “Casa do Zezinho” educational hub serving 1,200 at-risk youth, and emergency nutrition programs in Zambia’s drought-affected regions.

With every contribution matched dirham-for-dirham, the Foundation emphasizes that even a $50 donation can provide a month’s worth of meals for a child, while $1,000 could fund life-saving heart surgery through their medical missions.

Emirates’ global reach—connecting 140+ destinations—enables the Foundation to respond swiftly to crises, such as delivering 5-ton shipments of therapeutic food to malnutrition hotspots or airlifting medical equipment to partner hospitals.

As the campaign gains momentum, the Foundation reiterates its vision: to ensure every child, regardless of circumstance, has access to the tools needed to thrive—be it a classroom, a clinic, or simply a safe place to sleep. Donors are invited to join this mission, turning the simple act of giving into a legacy of hope for generations to come.

This version provides granular details about specific projects, donation mechanisms, volunteer efforts, and the tangible impact of contributions.

Oman Air has marked a transformative chapter in its operational history, completing a comprehensive organizational restructuring program that has driven financial recovery, workforce localization, and environmental stewardship. The airline achieved a 40% reduction in operating losses in 2023 alongside a 30% surge in annual revenues, while net losses narrowed by 36%, reflecting improved cost management and route optimization.

Workforce adjustments saw a 24% reduction in staff, generating RO 18 million in annual savings, with the Omanisation rate climbing to 79.4% in 2024—up nearly 5 percentage points from 2023—and targeting 81% by mid-2025 to prioritize local talent development.

Operational Efficiency and Fleet Modernization

The airline streamlined its network capacity by 30%, discontinuing unprofitable routes while enhancing focus on high-demand corridors. Its fleet was optimized to 32 aircraft in 2024, with plans to introduce 13 next-generation jets—including Boeing 737 MAX narrowbodies and 787-9 Dreamliners—by 2025, aimed at reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 20% per flight. 

Despite network adjustments, Oman Air launched its first new route in five years in late 2024, leveraging its narrowbody fleet for regional connectivity. Operational metrics saw dramatic improvements: on-time performance reached 92% (ranking among the world’s top two airlines), while load factors hit 75% in 2024, with a record 88% achieved in early 2025 on key routes.

Sustainability and Workforce Development

Oman Air allocated RO 15 million for employee severance packages, supporting 293 departing staff while redeploying 74 employees internally and relocating 87 others within Oman’s aviation sector. Sustainability initiatives included the elimination of single-use plastics across flights, a 15% reduction in fuel consumption through optimized flight paths, and partnerships to explore Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) adoption by 2026. 

The airline also introduced eco-friendly catering and waste-reduction programs, aligning with Oman’s Vision 2040 goal of achieving net-zero emissions in aviation.

Financial Resilience and Strategic Vision

The restructuring, guided by Oliver Wyman, strengthened governance through specialized committees overseeing finance, risk, and sustainability. EBITDA grew by 40% in 2023, driven by a 49% increase in point-to-point passenger traffic compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Oman Air aims to achieve break-even by 2026 and full economic self-sufficiency by 2027, supporting Oman’s tourism sector, which targets 11.7 million annual visitors by 2040. Integration with budget carrier SalamAir remains a priority, utilizing its Airbus A320neo fleet to expand regional reach while maintaining Oman Air’s premium service standards.

Future Outlook

The airline’s roadmap includes expanding cargo operations, digitizing customer experiences, and fostering partnerships with global aviation leaders to enhance operational agility. By balancing fiscal discipline with workforce empowerment and environmental innovation, Oman Air is poised to emerge as a model for sustainable aviation in the Gulf region, directly contributing to Oman’s economic diversification and climate action goals.

As the weekend approaches, Emirates is gearing up for one of its busiest travel periods of the year, with the airline forecasting a substantial increase in passenger numbers at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3. According to Emirates, over 300,000 travelers are expected to pass through the terminal between April 18 and April 21, marking a notable spike in airport activity.

This surge is attributed to the combination of school holidays, upcoming public holidays, and the start of the summer travel season, all of which are prompting families and individuals to take advantage of the break.

In anticipation of the travel rush, Emirates has issued a series of advisories and implemented several measures to ensure a smooth and efficient airport experience for its customers. The airline strongly recommends that passengers arrive at the airport at least three hours before their scheduled departure time to allow ample time for check-in, security screening, and immigration procedures.

Emirates also reminds travelers to have all necessary travel documents—such as passports, visas, and COVID-19 requirements—prepared in advance to avoid any last-minute complications.

To further enhance convenience and reduce congestion at check-in counters, Emirates is promoting its range of self-service and remote check-in options. Passengers can complete their check-in process online or via the Emirates App up to 48 hours before their flight, allowing them to obtain digital boarding passes and select their seats ahead of time.

For those who prefer to handle check-in in person, Emirates’ counters at Terminal 3 open 24 hours before departure, with a special note that check-in for US-bound flights begins 12 hours prior to takeoff due to additional security protocols.

Emirates is also highlighting its innovative City Check-In & Travel Store, located at ICD Brookfield Place in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), as well as its check-in facility at the Ajman Central Bus Terminal. These locations enable passengers to check in and drop off their luggage from 24 hours up to 4 hours before departure (excluding US-bound flights), offering added flexibility for travelers who wish to avoid the crowds at the main airport terminal.

Additionally, Emirates Skywards members and premium class passengers can take advantage of dedicated check-in areas and fast-track security lanes to further expedite their airport journey.

Once checked in, Emirates advises all travelers to proceed directly to immigration and security screening to avoid any delays, noting that passport control and security checks can become particularly busy during peak travel times.

The airline emphasizes the importance of adhering to boarding gate deadlines: Economy and Premium Economy passengers must be at their gate at least 60 minutes before departure, while First and Business Class passengers are required to be present 45 minutes prior. Boarding gates will close strictly 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time, and latecomers will not be accommodated, as Emirates is committed to maintaining punctual departures.

To manage the increased flow of passengers, Emirates has also increased staffing levels and deployed additional customer service agents throughout Terminal 3 to assist with directions, answer queries, and provide support to families and elderly travelers. The airline is working closely with Dubai Airports and other partners to ensure that baggage handling, security, and immigration services operate smoothly throughout the busy weekend.

By implementing these comprehensive measures and encouraging travelers to plan ahead, Emirates aims to deliver a seamless and stress-free travel experience for all passengers during this exceptionally busy period. The airline’s proactive approach reflects its ongoing commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence, even during peak travel seasons.

Emirates Airlines is preparing to host a spectacular Easter celebration from April 18 to April 21, 2025, offering a joyous experience for travelers across its various routes and lounges. This event welcomes passengers in First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class to partake in the festive spirit of Easter.

During this celebration, Emirates will serve a delightful assortment of Easter-themed meals on flights to destinations such as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Europe, and the USA. Travelers can anticipate classic Easter offerings, including hot cross buns and Easter bread, alongside indulgent desserts like carrot cake drizzled with a rich très leches sauce and chocolate mousse paired with raspberry gel and hazelnut fudge.

Young passengers will also receive cheerful Easter egg-shaped cookies, adding a playful touch to their journey. In the A380 Onboard Lounge, passengers can enjoy festive cupcakes and traditional simnel fruitcake topped with marzipan.

For those flying on routes to Russia and Greece, Emirates will celebrate Orthodox Easter from April 18 to April 20, featuring a unique menu for First and Business Class passengers. This special menu includes herb-crusted lamb served with crispy roasted potatoes, baby carrots, and tzatziki, as well as kulich bread, a sweet treat traditionally enjoyed during Orthodox Easter.

Across Emirates' network of lounges, passengers will find an array of classic Easter dishes available from April 18 to April 21. Highlights include tender lamb chops served in saffron and orange jus in the First Class Lounge, and a hearty lamb stew with potatoes and dried fruits in the Business Class Lounge. A selection of Easter-themed desserts, including cookies and assorted chocolates, will also be available.

In addition to these culinary delights, Emirates will provide a wide range of entertainment options, featuring over 6,500 channels on its acclaimed ice entertainment system. Passengers can enjoy family-friendly films like Wicked and Sonic the Hedgehog 3, as well as beloved classics from Disney and the complete Harry Potter series. Engaging children’s programming from networks such as Sesame Street and Bluey will also be featured.

Through this Eggstravagant Easter celebration, Emirates aims to foster a festive and enjoyable atmosphere for all travelers, ensuring their journey is both memorable and filled with holiday cheer.

In a significant move toward restoring full diplomatic and economic relations, the United Arab Emirates has announced it will resume commercial flights to Syria, more than a decade after suspending air travel amid the Syrian civil war.

The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) confirmed that preparations are currently underway to relaunch both passenger and cargo services, in a step officials say will enhance travel, boost trade, and reinforce growing ties between Abu Dhabi and Damascus.

The announcement follows a landmark visit by Syrian President Ahmed Al Shara to the UAE—his first since taking office in December 2024—where he held high-level talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. During their meeting, Sheikh Mohamed reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to Syria’s post-war recovery, pledging comprehensive support for reconstruction and economic revitalization.

“The resumption of flights is a clear signal of our intent to deepen cooperation,” a senior UAE official said. “It’s a practical measure with symbolic weight, reflecting the evolving relationship between our two nations.”

Flights between the UAE and Syria were halted in 2012 due to security concerns and the escalating conflict that engulfed the region. The move to restore connectivity aligns with a broader trend among Arab states that are reengaging with Syria, following recent political shifts in Damascus.

Regional carriers such as Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways have already resumed limited services to Syrian cities, and earlier this year, Syrian Airlines launched its first international commercial flight to Sharjah, marking a cautious but notable return to global air routes.

While no official restart date has been announced, budget airlines flydubai and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi have expressed interest in operating flights to Syria, pending regulatory approvals and safety assessments.

The renewed air links are expected to significantly benefit the large Syrian expatriate community in the UAE, many of whom have been separated from families or faced difficulties traveling home. It also promises to create new avenues for tourism and trade in a country seeking economic revival.

However, Syria’s path forward remains challenged by international sanctions, particularly those imposed by Western nations. These sanctions continue to hamper full economic recovery, even as diplomatic momentum builds for their gradual easing.