Emirates today announced its return as Official Airline of the Australian Open (AO) for 2026, a tournament that welcomed a record-breaking 1.2 million fans through the gates in 2025.
This year’s tournament will see the unveiling of the exclusive Emirates Marquee 2026 theme of Dubai, the all-ages playground, alongside the return of immersive fan experiences.
The Emirates Marquee: A “Desert Dreamscape” in Melbourne Park
The exclusive Emirates Marquee, one of the AO’s most sought-after experiences, will transform into a “Desert Dreamscape” and be an ode to Emirates’ home and global hub in Dubai. As the go-to for celebrities and invited guests at Melbourne Park, the Marquee will offer a glimpse of the world-class hospitality and vibrant culture that awaits travellers in Dubai.
The Marquee will embody elegant cultural reverence, featuring soaring archways and handcrafted Arabic lanterns. Its desert-inspired palette of sands and greens will evoke tranquil dunes, complemented by regional craftsmanship like Mashrabiya latticework and artisanal Middle Eastern textiles. Date palm lighting and native Dubai florals will complete the warm, fragrant ambiance.
The menu in 2026 will be reminiscent of the legendary hospitality Dubai is known for, kicking off with a Dubai-inspired brunch experience, capturing the stylish, indulgent, and lively essence of Dubai’s iconic brunch scene. The Finals Series will offer an A-La-Carte menu further exemplifying fusion and drawing from Dubai’s vibrant culinary tapestry to blend Arabic tradition with innovation, featuring influences from Japanese Omakase, European neighbours, and a bold reinvention of Indian cuisine, all underpinned by Dubai’s rich spice journey.
For the first time Emirates is extending its popular unlimited First Class caviar service to the AO, building on its success at Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the US Open. Guests in the Emirates Marquee, will savour luxurious Ossetra caviar, sourced from Siberian sturgeon, served with traditional accompaniments.
The airline will host over 1,300 guests in the Marquee throughout the AO in 2026, including Skywards members, global business leaders, celebrities, and sporting icons, building on the nearly 15,000 guests welcomed since 2015.
Barry Brown, Divisional Vice President Australasia at Emirates, said: “Emirates is pleased to be back for another year as Official Airline of the Australian Open for 2026, a testament to our unwavering commitment to tennis, excellence, and the vibrant Australian sporting community.
“We are thrilled to once again connect fans globally to this cornerstone event, and on the ground in Melbourne, we’re taking the experience to new heights. Excitingly, our exclusive Emirates Marquee this year will bring our home in Dubai to Melbourne, offering a taste of Dubai’s renowned hospitality, including our celebrated unlimited First Class caviar service.“
Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia and Australian Open Tournament Director, said: “Emirates has been a phenomenal partner for more than a decade, and having them back on board for 2026 speaks volumes about the strength of our relationship and what we’re building together. Their presence at Melbourne Park, from the premium Emirates Marquee to all the fun of the AO Ballpark, takes the fan experience to another level every year. We’re excited to keep pushing boundaries with Emirates and create even more unforgettable moments in the years ahead.”
Engaging Fans on the Ground and in the Sky
Emirates will once again connect with tennis fans of all ages across Melbourne Park. The family-friendly AO Ballpark Presented by Emirates, which saw over 26,000 children pick up a racquet last year, will open its doors a week before the main draw on Monday, 12 January. Packed with family fun, guests can experience the new Emirates Adventure Club bringing a taste of Dubai to Melbourne Park.
The fun will continue with Kids Tennis Day Presented by Emirates on Saturday, 17 January, with exclusive one-day-only activities that take over the entire precinct, an event which attracted nearly 20,000 kids and families in 2025. The airline’s engagement also extends into the digital world, with over 1.6 million users claiming an Emirates Passport in the AO Adventure on Roblox since its launch.
Emirates is also proud to present Emirates Day on Tuesday 20 January, with a range of #FlyBetterMoments for spectators – such as meeting its iconic Cabin Crew and having a polaroid snap taken to celebrate the AO partnership.
The airline’s commitment to connecting fans begins in the air, with matches aired live on the award-winning inflight entertainment system and special AO-themed amenities and menus onboard.
