Emirates has reported a significant rise in first-class bookings from China and India to the UK, citing the trend as a driver of economic growth. The airline saw a 27% increase in first-class passengers from China and a 17% rise from India in the first half of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024. Business-class bookings from Australia also grew by 10%.
Regional UK airports are expected to benefit from the influx, with inbound Chinese passenger numbers projected to rise by 18% at Glasgow and 45% at Newcastle in the second half of 2025 year-on-year. All Emirates flights to these destinations transit via Dubai.
The airline recently signed a declaration of intent with VisitBritain to boost inbound tourism. Emirates UK divisional vice president Jabr Al-Azeeby said: “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. We’ve seen a noticeable increase in inbound arrivals from key destinations such as Australia, India, and China, driving forward economic growth here in the UK.”
The UK government aims to attract 50 million international visitors annually by 2030. VisitBritain chief executive Patricia Yates highlighted the importance of increasing regional connectivity: “Expanding airline routes and seat capacity into our regional gateways is crucial to our competitive tourism offer. International visitors are forecast to spend more than £34 billion in the UK this year. Making it easier for visitors to explore our nations and regions boosts that spending across more of Britain, supporting jobs, businesses and driving growth for local economies.”
