1Q results from UAE-based firms Talabat + Abu Dhabi Aviation

Talabat’s net income fell as it ramped up investments

Talabat reported an 18% y-o-y decline in net income to USD 87 mn in 1Q 2026 due to increased investments, with some USD 25 mn deployed to scale its Talabat Mart vertical and strengthen its premium Talabat Pro offering, according to its earnings release (pdf). The firm’s revenue increased 23% y-o-y to USD 1.0 bn during the quarter, while its gross merchandise value (GMV) rose 19% y-o-y (18% on a constant currency basis) to USD 2.7 bn.

Revenue growth reflected higher contribution from Talabat Mart and broader multi-vertical activity, while lower commission rates and higher customer incentives weighed on margins. Profitability was also impacted by investments related to the company’s “Everyday App” strategy and changes in GMV mix during the quarter.

The company raised its FY 2026 net income guidance to USD 300-330 mn, up c.7% from its prior forecast. Meanwhile, it reaffirmed guidance for GMV growth of 11-14%, revenue growth of 14-17%, adjusted EBITDA of USD 510-540 mn, and free cashflow of USD 370-400 mn.

ADA posts mixed 1Q earnings

Mixed quarter for ADA: ADX-listed Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) saw its net income fall 42.2% y-o-y to AED 124.4 mn in 1Q 2026, according to the firm’s earnings release (pdf). The group’s revenue rose 1.4% y-o-y to AED 2 bn during the quarter, supported mainly by its MRO business and general aviation performance.

Behind the numbers: ADA’s MRO segment accounted for 88.3% of group revenue on sustained fleet-support demand at GAL and continued OEM partnership development at Ammroc, while General Aviation remained broadly stable on stronger cargo operations at Maximus Air.