Dubai Airshow 2025: Will Emirates, Etihad, flydubai place aircraft orders?

The 2025 Dubai Airshow is expected to showcase a shift towards pragmatism among Middle Eastern carriers, including Emirates, Etihad, and flydubai, as they prioritize strategic fleet planning over extravagant aircraft orders. Industry analysts suggest that airlines will focus on securing early delivery slots from Airbus and Boeing, both of which are grappling with multi-year backlogs and supply chain delays. This approach contrasts with previous airshows where Gulf giants like Emirates and Etihad announced substantial widebody deals. Instead, airlines are aiming to lock in positions on constrained production lines, while also seeking flexibility on aircraft variants as production slowly ramps up.

Etihad Airways, known for its disciplined approach, is reportedly exploring new widebody acquisitions, with discussions for Airbus A330s expected to conclude soon. flydubai is also considering a significant order of up to 200 narrowbody jets, with options for 100 more, potentially including the Airbus A321XLR and the Boeing 737 MAX. The airline is currently evaluating offers from both Boeing and Airbus. These narrowbody aircraft are well-suited for shorter, high-demand routes and thinner long-haul markets, connecting Gulf hubs to emerging tourist destinations in Africa and South Asia.

High interest rates are also influencing how airlines finance aircraft acquisitions. More airlines are turning to flexible leasing or ACMI arrangements to manage capital expenditure. While major players like Emirates and Qatar Airways have access to robust financing tools, smaller Gulf carriers are increasingly relying on lessors who can offer adaptable terms during market uncertainty. Despite geopolitical shocks, Middle Eastern aviation continues to expand, with tourism spending projected to surge 50% by 2030, reaching nearly $350 billion annually. Total passenger numbers in the Middle East are forecast to hit 466 million in 2025, necessitating added capacity through leased or owned aircraft.

Beyond aircraft orders, the 2025 Dubai Airshow is also emphasizing human capital, with airlines focusing on robust background screening to minimize operational and reputational risk amid rapid regional expansion. While surprises cannot be ruled out, industry experts advise waiting for official announcements during the show. The event will also feature eVTOL aircraft for the first time, highlighting the industry's pivot towards cleaner aviation. Dubai Airports is launching a global Sustainability Showcase, underscoring the commitment to a more environmentally friendly future for air travel.