Economy

U.S. star Jennifer Aniston to be new face of Emirates Airlines

U.S. star Jennifer Aniston is to appear in adverts by Dubai-based mega-carrier Emirates, the airline said on Sunday, in a deal that will see the actress rake in a reported $5 million.

“We are working with Ms Jennifer Aniston on a global digital and television campaign,” a senior Emirates official told local daily Gulf News on Sunday.

Earlier, the New York Post reported the size of her pay packet, and said that the campaign adverts had already been shot.

The 46-year-old Aniston – who is best known for her role as Rachel in the popular sitcom “Friends” – is not the only U.S. star to become the face of an UAE airline. Earlier this year, Emirates’ main rival, Abu Dhabi-based carrier Etihad, signed on Australian Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman as the face of its advertising.

She also has endorsement deals with two cosmetic brands, and for Coca Cola-owned upmarket bottled water brand Smart Water.

Branding mania

The 46-year-old is Emirates airlines’ latest signing in a raft of big budget branding deals.

Earlier this year, the carrier secured a three-year sponsorship deal to rename the English FA Cup as the “Emirates FA Cup.” That deal was reportedly valued at over $45 million.

Emirates is already a prominent sponsor of some of the world’s leading football clubs, including top Spanish team Real Madrid and the French club Paris Saint-Germain. Its deal with English Premier League football club Arsenal includes naming rights of its stadium.

Emirates is also a sponsor of this year’s Rugby World Cup.

Late last week, Aniston married longtime boyfriend Justin Theroux after a four-year romance. She is currently on her honeymoon.