Emirates NBD finances two Boeing 777 freighters for Emirates Airline in $350 million deal
Emirates NBD, one of the leading banking groups in the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye (MENAT) region, has signed a landmark USD 350 million aircraft financing agreement with Emirates Airline. The deal will support the delivery of two Boeing 777-200LRF (Long Range Freighter) aircraft, further boosting Emirates SkyCargo’s fleet and strengthening Dubai’s position as a global logistics hub.
The transaction represents Emirates NBD’s first dedicated freighter mortgage-style financing partnership with Emirates Airline, secured after a competitive bidding process. It also reinforces the bank’s aviation sector expertise and its role in aligning with the UAE’s national priorities for economic diversification and GDP growth.
Streamlined approach to aircraft financing
For Emirates Airline, this deal marks the first time it has adopted a direct, mortgage-style aircraft financing structure without relying on an offshore Special Purpose Company (SPC). The streamlined structure provides greater operational control and reflects a strategic shift in the airline’s financing approach.
Emirates NBD highlighted that this partnership not only enhances its aviation finance portfolio but also strengthens its position as a key financial partner for major UAE companies. The bank noted that the deal underscores its strategy of supporting critical infrastructure development and facilitating global trade flows through Dubai’s air corridor linking Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
Leadership perspectives
Ahmed Al Qassim, Group Head of Wholesale Banking at Emirates NBD, said:
“This landmark financing for Emirates Airline demonstrates Emirates NBD's continued commitment to supporting the core sectors that drive the UAE's economic vision. Our long-standing partnership with Emirates is built on our specialised capabilities in delivering flexible aviation finance solutions. We are proud to contribute to Dubai’s growing role as a global trade and logistics hub.”
Michael Doersam, Chief Financial & Group Services Officer at Emirates Group, added:
“Emirates has a proven track record in securing diverse financing solutions. This milestone transaction with Emirates NBD represents our first aircraft financing deal with the bank, building on our strong financial performance and robust business model. The streamlined, cost-efficient solution strengthens our operational flexibility and sets a precedent for future collaborations, while supporting Dubai’s D33 vision to enhance connectivity and expand trade flows globally.”
With this agreement, Emirates NBD and Emirates Airline have reinforced their partnership while setting a new benchmark in aviation financing, further consolidating the UAE’s leadership in global trade, logistics, and connectivity.
