Key Facts:
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- Exclusive Emirates Marquee to transport guests to a "Desert Dreamscape" inspired by Dubai.
- Airline celebrates impactful first year of its 'Force for Good' community tennis program, which has supported over 2,000 young Australians.
- Fan-favourite experiences return, including the AO Ballpark and Kids Tennis Day presented by Emirates, which 26,000 kids participated in, in 2025.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA, 13 January 2026 – Emirates is back as the Official Airline of the Australian Open (AO) for 2026 which officially kicks off this week.
The AO is set to transform Melbourne once again and will see Emirates take flight with an array of offerings both on ground and in the sky. From the AO Ballpark, inspired by Dubai airport, to Emirates Kids Day full of family-friendly activities, to onboard entertainment and a special AO inspired menu for those flying Emirates to Melbourne. This year's Ballpark promises an elevated and truly memorable celebration of world-class tennis.
Barry Brown, Divisional Vice President Australasia at Emirates says, "Emirates' return as the Official Airline of the Australian Open 2026 is a powerful affirmation of our deep, long-standing commitment to Australia – a relationship that now spans nearly three decades.
There is a deep-rooted connection to Australian sport in Emirates' DNA, as our Australian sponsorship portfolio has seen us invest over $230 million into long-term partnerships. This includes the AO, which we've held since 2015, and is a portfolio we are proud of, delivering enriching experiences to Australians from all walks of life.
Our commitment extends both on and off the court. On the aviation front, we maintain an extensive network of 70 weekly flights across five major gateways, connecting Australians with the world and acting as a crucial gateway for international fans to major events like the Australian Open. At the AO itself, we're bringing unparalleled hospitality with our 'Desert Dreamscape' Emirates Marquee, offering our First Class caviar service to exclusive guests, alongside the AO Ballpark and other family-focused events."
Family Fun at AO Ballpark
The hugely popular, family-friendly AO Ballpark, presented by Emirates, opened its doors a week before the main draw on Monday, January 12th. Last year, this vibrant zone saw over 26,000 children engage with tennis and 2026 promises even more excitement.
Located beneath an air traffic control tower, the Ballpark will feature the "Emirates Little Travellers" tiny trikes baggage track for younger children. It will also feature a robot navigation challenge for older kids, connecting all four Emirates-sponsored Grand Slams and a Dubai Frame-inspired activation, set against the Dubai city skyline, where Emirates Cabin Crew will capture polaroid memories for families daily.
Also on offer will be classic favourites like the Hot Shotz Mini Courts, 2.5m and 6m Waterslides, as well as live shows featuring popular characters Peppa Pig and Superman, alongside plenty of other tennis-themed activities.
The fun continues with Kids Tennis Day Presented by Emirates on Saturday, January 17th. This special event will offer exclusive, one-day-only activities across the entire precinct, building on the success of 2025 which attracted nearly 20,000 children and families.
Emirates will also proudly present Emirates Day on Tuesday, January 20th. Spectators can look forward to a range of #FlyBetterMoments, including opportunities to meet the iconic Emirates Cabin Crew to pick up the iconic Emirates seat cushion and capture polaroid photos to celebrate the enduring partnership with the AO. Guests are also welcome to attend a special Emirates performance on Rod Laver Arena ahead of the evening match, featuring an appearance by cabin crew.
Beyond the physical activations, Emirates extends its reach into the digital world. The airline's engagement in the AO Adventure on Roblox has already seen over 1.6 million users claim an Emirates Passport since its launch.
Experience AO onboard
For those travelling to the event, Emirates' commitment to connecting fans begins in the air. Passengers can enjoy live matches on Emirates' award-winning inflight ice entertainment system, complemented by special AO-themed amenities and menus onboard. First and Business Class travellers will be treated to a delectable menu featuring Australia's iconic Moreton Bay bugs in addition to prawns, a crabmeat salad starter, seared lamb cutlets as a main, and a meringue with Chantilly cream, passionfruit compote, strawberries, and blueberries for dessert. Passengers travelling in Premium Economy and Economy will also enjoy a curated selection of special dishes, including the classic Australian lamington.
Making a Meaningful Impact Beyond the Court
In partnership with the Australian Tennis Foundation, Emirates launched its 'Force for Good' program in Australia in 2025, investing $2.25 million over five years to inspire brighter futures for disadvantaged children through tennis. The program operates in the five Australian cities where the airline flies – Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.
In 2025, the initiative supported over 2,000 disadvantaged children and young people across Australia. This provided more than 6,500 opportunities to play tennis through 11 community initiatives spanning over 60 schools, clubs and community courts.
At the AO 2026, Emirates will celebrate the successful first year of its 'Force for Good' program with a special event for select participants from the 2025 program.
