UAE carrier spends $2b on aircraft retrofitting

Emirates launches its first experiential travel store in Karachi, focusing on growth and opportunities in Pakistan.

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KARACHI:

Emirates has officially launched its new travel store in Karachi, making it the airline's first experiential retail concept rolled out in West Asia.

The store was inaugurated by Essa Sulaiman Ahmad, Emirates' Senior Vice President for Commercial Operations, West Asia and Indian Ocean, in the presence of Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Bakheet Ateeq Al-Rumaithi, Consul General of the UAE in Karachi, who was also present at the event, highlighted the strong ties between the UAE and Pakistan.

Speaking about participation in the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Essa Sulaiman Ahmad said, "We are concentrating more on our own airline and do not look at buying any stake or carrier. We just spent $2 billion to retrofit our aircraft. We are definitely looking at our own growth."

Ahmad commented, "We are looking at creating opportunities. Traditionally, Dubai airport operates under an open skies policy, fostering competition, which we believe is essential. Pakistan holds a huge potential and we have been playing a major role in its economic development and its tourism sector. There is a huge opportunity, but it depends on how the government aligns with our policies. For us, cargo is an important element as it opens corridors for investments."