Emirates has unveiled a new behind-the-scenes video highlighting the evolution and scale of ice, its award-winning inflight entertainment platform. With over 6,500 channels, including movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, and live sports, Emirates’ ice stands as the world’s largest media library in the sky.
Described by customers as “a movie-obsessed friend’s house at 40,000 feet,” ice continues to redefine what it means to be entertained in the air, backed by a team that curates, localises, and updates content monthly for Emirates’ 54 million passengers worldwide.
From Hollywood blockbusters to regional cinema in 50 languages, Emirates licenses a vast range of global content. It also partners with leading platforms including HBO Max, Disney+, Spotify, and BBC, ensuring passengers access trending series, documentaries, and exclusive podcasts. Passengers can even pre-select their viewing via the Emirates app, syncing choices onboard with ease.
Family-friendliness and accessibility are integral to the offering. With over 250 channels for kids, content curated for multiple cultures, and audio descriptive and closed caption features, Emirates has long set the benchmark for inclusivity in entertainment. The newly launched A350 aircraft further enhances accessibility with a redesigned UI for visually impaired travellers.
In response to passenger interest in self-development, Emirates has added LinkedIn Learning courses, language tutorials, and tailored content folders aligned with awareness months like Autism and Earth Month.
The ice team also produces original content, such as the Emirates World podcast, featuring prominent voices from Dubai’s leadership to international experts. A notable example was the live interview with astronaut Dr Sultan AlNeyadi, conducted while aboard the International Space Station—a first for inflight content.
Behind the scenes, Emirates relies on Thales technology and cutting-edge aircraft servers to house its expanding content. New A350 aircraft now feature 4K displays, intuitive interfaces, intro-skip functions, and iceMoments – a short-form video browsing experience that streamlines content discovery.
Emirates’ commitment to entertainment leadership dates back to 1992, when it became the first airline to install seat-back screens. Today, it continues to lead with live TV, a 3,500+ album music library, and a constant refresh of media—ensuring passengers never run out of things to watch, hear, or learn.
With innovation embedded in its DNA, Emirates ice isn’t just entertainment—it’s a personalised, evolving travel companion that transforms time in the sky into a rich cultural and educational journey.
