Emirates, Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) and Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking (Natixis CIB) have completed a 12-year Shariah-compliant French Lease financing transaction supporting Emirates’ acquisition of two Airbus A350-900 aircraft in 2026.

The financing combines French lease structures with Islamic finance principles in a single arrangement, offering an alternative funding model for the global aviation industry.

The transaction supports Emirates’ fleet expansion strategy and demonstrates the potential for innovative Shariah-compliant aviation financing. DIB and Natixis CIB acted as Islamic financiers and arrangers.

Derek Blaney, Acting Chief Financial Officer at Emirates Group said: "Emirates continues to pursue diverse solutions and innovative funding structures as part of our long-term financing strategy. Drawing on the complementary strengths of Dubai Islamic Bank and Natixis CIB, this landmark transaction combines Islamic finance with a French Lease structure, helping to diversify our funding sources while supporting the continued expansion of our fleet. Our strong financial performance and proven track record give us access to innovative solutions like this one, and we are pleased to have worked with both partners on a structure that sets a precedent for future aircraft financing."

Naveed Ali, Chief of Corporate Banking at DIB, said: “This transaction reflects the growing sophistication and international relevance of Islamic finance. By bringing together the French Lease framework and Shariah-compliant financing, we have helped structure a solution that supports Emirates’ long-term financing requirements while demonstrating how Islamic finance can be applied to complex, cross-border aviation transactions.

“Our role as Islamic Financier and Arranger and Shariah Structurer draws on the depth of DIB’s corporate banking and Shariah structuring capabilities. Our Shariah team also played an important role in aligning the relevant requirements of the French Lease structure, including the applicable French Lease considerations, with Shariah standards. This demonstrates the potential for sophisticated Islamic financing structures to support the evolving capital requirements of major international industries.”

Jean Chédeville, Head of Transportation Finance, Natixis CIB, said: “This transaction demonstrates our ability to develop tailored financing solutions and bring high added value to our clients. We are thrilled to support Emirates with another tailored aircraft delivery funding solution and very pleased to partner with Dubai Islamic Bank on such a unique and innovative project. "-TradeArabia News Service