New provider complements tourism, shipment capability and hyperlinks between Kenya, Europe and North The us
Dubai: Simply after 5am this morning (July 1, 2026), Emirates’ long-awaited 3rd day-to-day flight between Dubai and Nairobi arrived at Jomo Kenyatta World Airport for the primary time. With the release of EK717, Emirates now operates 21 weekly flights at the Dubai–Nairobi direction, strengthening international connectivity and supporting Kenya’s tourism ambitions.
Optimally timed for the summer season agenda, EK717 departs Dubai at 1:20 and arrives in Nairobi at 5:25, enabling progressed connections from main US gateways and key locations in Europe. The go back flight, EK718, departs Jomo Kenyatta World Airport at 7:10 and arrives in Dubai at 13:15, providing seamless onward connections to the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Spain, Italy and Portugal, amongst different Ecu locations.
The addition of the morning agenda introduces a complementary dynamic to Emirates’ operations. World vacationers arriving in Nairobi may have extra time to succeed in onward locations, together with resorts in nationwide parks or coastal places. For industry travellers, the early departure permits same-day connections to main Ecu industrial centres reminiscent of London and Paris.
Christophe Leloup, Emirates’ Nation Supervisor for Kenya, joined H.E. Dr Salim Ibrahim Bin Ahmed Mohammed Alnaqbi, UAE Ambassador to Kenya; Teresia Mbaika, Predominant Secretary of the State Division for Aviation and Aerospace Construction beneath the Ministry of Roads and Shipping; Ambassador (Professor) Julius Okay. Bitok, CBS, Predominant Secretary, State Division for Tourism; and Emirates group of workers in welcoming the flight on arrival, marking the milestone.
Christophe Leloup stated: “For three decades, Kenya has been one of Emirates’ most important destinations in Africa, and this third daily service reflects both the strength of that relationship and our confidence in the country’s future. More than adding capacity, this flight creates better connections for travellers from across Europe, North America and beyond, making it easier to visit Kenya, do business here, and connect with family and opportunities. It is an investment in a market we know well and a commitment to supporting Kenya’s growing role as a regional and global gateway.”
Emirates introduced its first flight to Nairobi in 1995 and has since carried greater than six million passengers to and from the rustic, connecting Kenya to over 138 international locations by the use of Dubai.
Teresia Mbaika stated: “I congratulate Emirates on the launch of its third scheduled flight into Nairobi. This is a strong vote of confidence in Kenya’s aviation, tourism and trade sectors. Kenya and the UAE have enjoyed mutually beneficial relations over the years, and we look forward to strengthening this partnership further. I am also confident that Emirates will benefit from the ongoing modernisation of JKIA, designed to improve efficiency, capacity and the overall passenger experience.”
Bettering pan-African connectivity, Emirates signed an interline settlement with Kenya Airlines in 2023, with greater than 31,000 passengers already travelling seamlessly throughout each networks to locations together with Rwanda, Kilimanjaro and Mozambique. The 3rd day-to-day flight supplies further choices and versatility for regional onward shuttle.
The added frequency additionally will increase shipment capability through 280 tonnes every week. For Kenya’s flower exporters and recent produce sector, the early morning departure allows sooner supply to markets in Europe and the Gulf, making sure freshness. Mixed with Emirates SkyCargo’s 3 weekly freighter services and products to Nairobi, the airline now transports greater than 1,100 tonnes of products to and from Kenya every week.
Previous this yr, Kenya and the UAE signed a Complete Financial Partnership Settlement, strengthening ties past aviation. Kenya targets to draw 5 million world vacationers through 2030, a objective reliant on progressed accessibility from key markets. Emirates’ expanded services and products play an important position in supporting this ambition.
Ambassador (Professor) Julius Okay. Bitok stated: “As we continue to showcase Kenya to the world, enhanced air connectivity plays a vital role in the movement of people, goods and services while helping more travellers discover the diversity of our destination. Emirates’ third daily service makes it easier for visitors to experience Kenya’s wildlife, coastline, culture and hospitality.”
June Chepkemei, Leader Government Officer of the Kenya Tourism Board, added: “As Kenya pursues ambitious tourism growth, strong international connectivity remains essential. The third daily service from Emirates will improve access for visitors from key global markets and support efforts to grow tourism, create jobs and deliver greater economic value across the country.”
