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
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