Dnata enjoys record performance

In the 52 years of dnata, 2011-12 has been its most successful yet. With an increase of 58.9 percent over last year, the Emirates subsidiary grew its revenue to AED 7 billion (US$ 1.9 billion). Overall profit for dnata also reached its highest ever point at AED 808 million (US$ 220 million).

During the year, dnata’s operating costs increased by 58.9 percent to AED 6.2 billion (US$ 1.7 billion), primarily triggered by the first full integration of Alpha Group.

For the first time, dnata’s largest revenue stream has come from in-flight catering, accounting for AED 2.5 billion (US$ 668 million) of its total revenue. The single largest factor in this revenue shift is the full year inclusion of Alpha Flight Group who uplifted over 48 million meals during the year. 

Revenue from dnata’s airport operations increased by 17.2 percent reaching AED 2.3 billion (US$ 632 million) to make the second largest revenue stream behind inflight catering. The increase is due primarily to increased volumes at Dubai and Singapore airports.

dnata’s cargo handling division also witnessed upward growth with revenues increasing by 12.6 percent to AED 993 million (US$ 271 million) on account of increased tonnage at Dubai International Airport and Singapore Changi Airport. Increased cargo volumes at Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central saw dnata handle 3.3 percent more cargo.

Complementing its growth and expansion, dnata underwent a comprehensive brand refresh throughout the year, incorporating the different businesses of dnata under the unifying ‘One dnata’ umbrella. With staff across 39 countries, the ‘One dnata’ message has been fully embraced by its 20,000 strong workforce, an Emirates Group spokesman said.