It has been another tough year with fuel pressure continuously dampening our vibrant net income production, but I am proud to say we returned our 18th consecutive profit for the airline, with the group returning a net profit of US$762 million (Dhs2.8 billion) on a turnover of US$6.6 billion (Dhs24.3 billion).

Emirates' net profit was US$674 million (Dhs2.5 billion), while Dnata’s net profit was US$88 million (Dhs324 million).

Our success was tinged with sadness as Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, passed away in January. He will be greatly missed by the UAE and Dubai but we know that the new ruler, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum will continue to carry out the visionary plans of their father, Sheikh Rashid, to turn Dubai into a major gateway, hub and centre for international businesses and institutions of every kind.