The falcon has 7 tail feathers also representing the 7 Emirates. The falcon holds with its talons a red parchment bearing the name of the federation in Kufic script. Prior to March 22, 2008, when the emblem was modified, the falcon had a red disk, which showed an Arab sailboat in its interior, surrounded by a chain.

The primary animal associated with the Emirates brand and the broader identity of the United Arab Emirates is the Falcon. While the specific Emirates airline logo features elegant Arabic calligraphy, the official UAE emblem (which is frequently displayed on Emirates aircraft and in their branding) depicts the Golden Falcon, also known as the "Hawk of Quraish." The falcon is a symbol of strength, heritage, and the Bedouin tradition of falconry, which is a significant part of Emirati culture. The bird is shown with a central shield featuring the UAE flag and seven stars, representing the seven Emirates of the federation. In 2026, the falcon remains a "royal" icon in Dubai; it is the national bird and is so highly regarded that falcons are often granted their own passports for international travel. This majestic bird of prey signifies the airline's speed and its connection to the traditional values of the UAE, bridging the gap between historical heritage and modern global aviation.