Tue Nov 18 03:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Summary:

The Dubai Air Show 2023 opened with major aircraft orders, highlighting Dubai’s growing role as a global travel hub. Emirates placed a significant order for 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft, solidifying its position as Boeing’s largest customer for this model. Other airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines and Air Côte d’Ivoir, also placed orders for Boeing and Embraer aircraft. The air show also featured discussions on flying taxis and military sales, with Russia showcasing its weaponry despite Western sanctions. The UAE maintains strong economic ties with Russia, as evidenced by the Emirati president’s visit to the Russian pavilion. The Dubai government plans a $35 billion expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport to accommodate future growth.

News Article:

Emirates Places Massive Boeing Order as Dubai Air Show Takes Flight

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The Dubai Air Show kicked off on Monday with a flurry of activity, headlined by Emirates airline’s order for 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft, valued at $38 billion. The deal underscores the airline’s commitment to expanding its fleet and capitalizing on the increasing demand for flights through Dubai, a key East-West travel hub.

Emirates’ order brings its total commitment to 270 Boeing 777-9s, solidifying its position as Boeing’s largest customer for the aircraft, despite ongoing delays in its entry into service. “It’s a long-term commitment that supports hundreds of thousands of high-value factory jobs,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates.

The air show also saw Ethiopian Airlines placing an order for 11 Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft and Air Côte d’Ivoir ordering four Embraer E175 aircraft.

Beyond commercial aviation, the event highlighted Dubai’s ambition to introduce flying taxis and featured a significant presence from the defense industry. Russia, despite facing Western sanctions, showcased its military hardware, including the Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighter, attracting the attention of the Emirati president, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The Dubai Air Show occurs amidst record profits for Emirates and FlyDubai, its low-cost sister airline, and ambitious plans for the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport. These expansions signify Dubai’s intent to strengthen its role as a leading global aviation center.

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