Emirates launches third daily Dubai–Nairobi flight to boost connectivity

Dubai: Just after 5am this morning (July 1, 2026), Emirates’ long-awaited third daily flight between Dubai and Nairobi arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for the first time. With the launch of EK717, Emirates now operates 21 weekly flights on the Dubai–Nairobi route, strengthening global connectivity and supporting Kenya’s tourism ambitions. Optimally timed for the summer schedule, EK717 departs Dubai at 1:20 and arrives in Nairobi at 5:25, enabling improved connections from major US gateways and key destinations in Europe. The return flight, EK718, departs Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 7:10 and arrives in Dubai at 13:15, offering seamless onward connections to the UK, France, Belgium, Spain, Italy and Portugal, among other European destinations. The addition of the morning schedule introduces a complementary dynamic to Emirates’ operations. International tourists arriving in Nairobi will have more time to reach onward destinations, including lodges in national parks or coastal locations. For business travellers, the early departure allows same-day connections to major European commercial centres such as London and Paris. Christophe Leloup, Emirates’ Country Manager for Kenya, joined H.E. Dr Salim Ibrahim Bin Ahmed Mohammed Alnaqbi, UAE Ambassador to Kenya; Teresia Mbaika, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development under the Ministry of Roads and Transport; Ambassador (Professor) Julius K. Bitok, CBS, Principal Secretary, State Department for Tourism; and Emirates staff in welcoming the flight on arrival, marking the milestone. Christophe Leloup said: “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 launched its first flight to Nairobi in 1995 and has since carried more than six million passengers to and from the country, connecting Kenya to over 138 global destinations via Dubai. Teresia Mbaika said: “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.” Enhancing pan-African connectivity, Emirates signed an interline agreement with Kenya Airways in 2023, with more than 31,000 passengers already travelling seamlessly across both networks to destinations including Rwanda, Kilimanjaro and Mozambique. The third daily flight provides additional options and flexibility for regional onward travel. The added frequency also increases cargo capacity by 280 tonnes per week. For Kenya’s flower exporters and fresh produce sector, the early morning departure enables faster delivery to markets in Europe and the Gulf, ensuring freshness. Combined with Emirates SkyCargo’s three weekly freighter services to Nairobi, the airline now transports more than 1,100 tonnes of goods to and from Kenya each week. Earlier this year, Kenya and the UAE signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, strengthening ties beyond aviation. Kenya aims to attract five million international tourists by 2030, a goal reliant on improved accessibility from key markets. Emirates’ expanded services play a vital role in supporting this ambition. Ambassador (Professor) Julius K. Bitok said: “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, Chief Executive 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.”