Here’s what the new Emirates uniform will look like

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The Emirates staff has been known for its iconic uniform for years. But that’s likely to change next year, as the company is currently testing a new uniform. While no official statement has been released, I’ve already received insider photos. In this article, I’ll show you what the new uniform looks like and explain what’s about to change.

Although the current uniform has been worn for many years, the change doesn’t come as a surprise. The Dubai-based airline announced back in June that the shoes would be updated. Instead of having only two options, female staff members can now choose from fifteen different styles. While they are still pumps, the company opted for a different shade of red. This latest uniform update seems to build on that change.

 

Here’s what the new Emirates uniform will look like

In the photo below, you can see the current female uniform on the right and the one currently being tested on the left.

In addition to this image, I have several other pictures of the women’s uniform, but I do not have permission to share them. Based on what I’ve seen, however, here are the key changes:

• On the current uniform, the buttons at the front are visible, but in the new version, they are concealed as the fabric folds over them.
• The buttons used to be a mix of beige and light brown. In the new uniform, they are solid-colored, matching the new fabric shade, which I’ll discuss further below.
• The current uniform has two welt pockets at the waist, but these will be removed.
• Instead of pockets, female staff members will wear a narrow red belt at the waist, held in place by small loops on the blazer. The belt features a subtle gold buckle.
• The skirt currently has a straight cut with multiple pleats, allowing for easy movement. In the new uniform, the skirt has an A-line shape with fewer pleats. I haven’t seen the back yet, but the front has a single pleat.
• The blazer previously had simple, straight sleeves. In the new design, red cuffs have been added, matching the red lining of the blazer (at least partially).

 

A new fabric

The fabric has also been updated. The current uniform features a sandy-colored fabric with a subtle pinstripe pattern. For the new fabric, a dark shade has been chosen that leans more towards brown. And the check pattern has been replaced by a subtle check pattern.

Unfortunately, I don’t have any photos showing the entire men’s suit. According to the source who shared the photos, the tie has been updated, as well as the overall fit. The suit now has a much slimmer cut.

Who will wear the new Emirates uniform?

The uniform is currently being tested by a small group of ground staff responsible for assisting VIP and first-class passengers. Although this group is still relatively small, I’ve received reports from people and employees who have seen the new uniforms in action.

According to the source who provided me with the photos, Emirates plans to gradually roll out the new uniform next year. This would mean that both ground staff and cabin crew will wear the new design. This aligns with the company’s current policy, as Emirates makes no distinction between ground and flight staff—both wear the same uniform.

However, some employees claim that the new uniform is intended only for ground staff, meaning a distinction would be created after all.

For now, Emirates remains tight-lipped, but it likely won’t be long before an official press release is issued. After all, a new uniform is always big news in the airline industry. I’m curious to see what’s next…

Want to learn more about uniforms in aviation? I publish videos about this topic a few times a week on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube. Follow me there if you want to stay up to date.

Greetings,

Aileen