DUBAI- Emirates (EK) has reported a surge in first-class and business-class bookings on UK bound flights from key Asian markets, notably China and India, during the first half of 2025.
The airline noted significant demand growth across its UK operations, with premium bookings fueling inbound tourism via Dubai International Airport (DXB) and supporting Britain’s economic objectives.
Emirates First Class Lounge, Dubai; Photo- EmiratesEmirates First Class UK Bookings
Emirates (EK) has seen a sharp increase in first-class bookings from China and India to the United Kingdom in 2025. Compared to the same period in 2024, first-class demand rose by 27% from China and 17% from India.
Additionally, business class bookings from Australia saw a 10% year-on-year increase. All passengers on these routes transit through Dubai International Airport (DXB), reinforcing the hub’s role as a global connector.
The airline attributed this surge to a combination of post-pandemic travel recovery, rising outbound tourism from Asia, and growing interest in Britain as a destination.
Emirates emphasized the economic benefits of these travel trends, citing increased spending and longer stays by premium passengers.
According to The National, Emirates anticipates further growth through its regional UK connections.
Airports in cities such as Glasgow and Newcastle are expected to see inbound passenger increases of 18% and 45% respectively in the second half of 2025, driven largely by Chinese travelers.
Photo: EmiratesStrategic Partnership with VisitBritain
To further promote UK tourism, Emirates has signed a declaration of intent with VisitBritain, the national tourism agency. The agreement focuses on enhancing inbound travel by expanding airline connectivity and increasing seat capacity into regional UK airports.
Jabr Al Azeeby, Divisional Vice President of Emirates UK, reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to supporting UK tourism:
“The UK is one of the most important markets in Emirates’ global network, and the growth in bookings we’ve seen over the past year reflects that.”
Jabr Al Azeeby
Patricia Yates, CEO of VisitBritain, highlighted the importance of regional accessibility:
“Expanding airline routes and seat capacity into our regional gateways is crucial to our competitive tourism offer.”
Patricia Yates
This collaboration aligns with the British government’s target of attracting 50 million international visitors annually by 2030.
In 2024, the UK recorded approximately 41.2 million inbound visits, with international visitors forecast to spend over £34 billion in 2025.
Photo: Clément AlloingImpact on the UK Economy
Premium travel from long-haul markets like China and India not only supports national tourism goals but also brings tangible benefits to local economies.
Higher spending travelers contribute more per visit, particularly when they explore regions beyond London.
The increased traffic to airports such as Glasgow (GLA) and Newcastle (NCL) spreads tourism revenue across the UK, boosting hospitality, retail, and service sectors in these areas.
This aligns with VisitBritain’s strategy to diversify tourism flows and strengthen regional economic resilience.
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