Emirates has signed a memorandum of understanding with ENOC Group to explore joint initiatives to supply sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to the carrier’s Dubai hub.
The MoU, which was signed on the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow, creates a framework for feasibility studies to assess SAF supply opportunities in Dubai. The framework covers supply chain infrastructure, production capabilities, and commercial viability.
The collaboration aims to explore pathways for developing economically feasible SAF production and supply infrastructure in Dubai, with ENOC, a UAE-based company, evaluating its potential contribution to local production. A joint steering committee will guide the evaluation.
Adel Al Redha, deputy president and CEO of Emirates, said that establishing a reliable SAF supply at its Dubai hub is a “key priority”.
“We recognise there's significant work ahead to address supply constraints and infrastructure requirements," he said. “But partnerships like this are essential to identifying practical solutions and building the foundation for broader SAF accessibility in Dubai and eventually across our network.”
The UAE is currently working towards supplying 1% of jet fuel to national airlines from locally-produced SAF by 2031.
Emirates said it is actively engaged in advancing the UAE's SAF ecosystem through membership in the Technical Group under the Aviation Fuels Executive Committee, which is convened by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.
It is also a member of the Dubai Biofuels, Hydrogen and Sustainable Aviation Fuel Committee, which is convened by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy.
The airline has contributed to the UAE's General Policy for Sustainable Aviation Fuel, which aims to transform the UAE into a regional hub for alternative aviation fuels, with production targets of 700 million litres by 2030.
In January 2023, Emirates operated a Boeing 777 flight using 100% SAF in one engine, and in November 2023, it conducted its first A380 demonstration flight using 100% SAF in one of its four engines.
That same month, Emirates operated flights with SAF from Dubai International Airport using 315,000 gallons of blended SAF integrated into the airport’s fuel infrastructure.