November 20, 2025
by
Airports AI Alliance
Emirates Group has announced a strategic collaboration with OpenAI to accelerate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) across its global operations through the rollout of ChatGPT Enterprise, internal training programmes, and the creation of an AI Centre of Excellence to test and deploy new technologies.
Under the agreement, Emirates will integrate ChatGPT Enterprise across multiple business units, supported by a company-wide AI literacy programme and leadership engagement. The initiative is designed to strengthen operational efficiency, decision-making, and customer experience while developing in-house expertise to manage emerging technologies.
Ali Serdar Yakut, Executive Vice President of IT at Emirates Group, said: “We see enormous potential for AI technology to support our business requirements, helping us tackle complex commercial challenges, strengthening our operations, and enhancing the customer experience.”
Emirates and OpenAI will hold dedicated sessions for senior executives to explore how AI can be applied across aviation and logistics operations. These sessions will focus on identifying potential use cases and ensuring alignment between technology and business goals. Joint teams will also work on sandbox testing and model integration to evaluate how AI can streamline internal processes and service delivery.
Rod Solaimani, Regional Director for MENA and Central Asia at OpenAI, said: “Emirates Group has laid out a bold vision for how AI can transform the future of aviation. With this collaboration, we’re proud to help them bring that vision to life – embedding intelligence across their operations, empowering teams with powerful new tools, and reimagining the travel experience for millions of customers.”
The partnership marks a significant step in Emirates’ wider digital transformation strategy. The airline has previously invested in automation and analytics for maintenance, flight operations, and customer service. Its collaboration with OpenAI extends this approach by introducing generative AI tools to support employees and improve operational insight.
The AI Centre of Excellence will coordinate research and pilot projects across departments, focusing on areas such as resource planning, crew management, and predictive maintenance. The initiative is intended to create a structured pathway for testing, evaluating, and scaling AI applications across the group’s business units.
