A Legacy Brewed in Excellence
Since 1992, Emirates and Dilmah have shared a vision: to offer passengers an unparalleled tea experience that mirrors the quality and authenticity found in the finest tea rooms. This alliance has seen over 33 million cups of Dilmah tea served onboard, a figure that underscores the popularity and trust passengers place in this offering.
Merrill J. Fernando, the founder of Dilmah, established the brand with a commitment to producing the finest, freshest quality tea while ensuring ethical practices and community upliftment. This philosophy resonates with Emirates’ dedication to delivering exceptional service, making the partnership a harmonious blend of shared values.
Curated Selections for Discerning Palates
Emirates’ inflight menu boasts over ten varieties of Dilmah tea, each selected to cater to diverse passenger preferences across all travel classes.
- First and Business Class: Passengers can indulge in gourmet blends such as Sencha Green Extra Special, Pure Camomile Flowers, and the bespoke “Breakfast in Paradise,” a harmonious mix of turmeric, coconut, and vanilla.
- Economy Class: Travelers are offered classics like Premium Ceylon and Natural Green Tea, ensuring that quality is uncompromised regardless of seating.
A highlight of this collaboration is the exclusive Emirates Signature Tea, crafted solely for First Class passengers. This unique blend combines flowery orange pekoe 1 leaf with marigold and safflower, delivering aromatic notes of rose, almond, and ginger. Designed to complement both savory dishes and sweet desserts, this tea exemplifies the meticulous attention to detail in Emirates’ culinary offerings.
Innovative Infusions and Celebratory Gestures
Emirates continually seeks to enhance the passenger experience through innovative uses of Dilmah teas. In the A380 Onboard Lounge, the airline introduced the “Dilmah Elixir Breeze” mocktail, a refreshing concoction of Emirates Signature Iced Tea, chilled apple juice, and sparkling water. Such creations not only showcase the versatility of tea but also reflect Emirates’ commitment to offering unique inflight experiences.
To commemorate International Tea Day on May 21, Emirates celebrated its longstanding partnership with Dilmah by presenting passengers on select routes from Dubai with a special gift box. This curated selection included Dilmah’s Ceylon Breakfast, Turmeric, Coconut and Vanilla Tea, and Earl Grey with Honey, allowing travelers to savor the Emirates-Dilmah experience beyond their journey.
Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing at the Forefront
Beyond the cup, the Emirates-Dilmah partnership is anchored in a shared commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. Dilmah’s dedication to environmental stewardship is evident in its achievement of carbon neutrality in 2017, accomplished through initiatives like the use of biochar, solar power installations, and hydroelectricity plants on its estates. Emirates, aligning with these values, ensures that its offerings not only delight passengers but also contribute positively to global sustainability efforts.
A Model for Culinary Collaborations in Aviation
The enduring alliance between Emirates and Dilmah serves as a paradigm for how airlines can elevate the in-flight experience through thoughtful, quality-driven partnerships. By integrating a premium, ethically sourced product into its service, Emirates not only enhances passenger satisfaction but also reinforces its brand ethos of excellence and responsibility.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, such collaborations underscore the importance of authenticity, innovation, and sustainability in crafting memorable journeys. For passengers aboard Emirates flights, the simple act of sipping a cup of Dilmah tea becomes a testament to the airline’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional experiences.
