Emirates Adds Third Daily Direct Flight to Nairobi, Expanding Connectivity Ahead of 2026

Emirates has strengthened its East African network with the introduction of a third direct daily flight to Nairobi, scheduled to commence on 1 March 2026. This strategic expansion comes as the airline marks its 30th year of operations in Kenya, enhancing connectivity between Nairobi and Dubai while improving access to major destinations across Europe, the Middle East, the United States, and Asia.

The additional frequency increases Emirates’ weekly operations to 21 flights between Nairobi and Dubai. With rising demand for both passenger travel and air cargo, this expansion further solidifies Emirates’ position as one of Kenya’s most important international carriers.

Enhanced Connectivity for Global Travellers

The new flight, operating as EK718, will depart Nairobi at 06:50 and arrive in Dubai at 12:50, offering travelers improved connection times to key markets such as the UK, France, Norway, Italy, the United States, and Thailand. The outbound service from Dubai will depart at 00:55 and land in Nairobi at 05:05, accommodating passengers connecting from late-night arrivals across the airline’s global network.

The airline’s expanded schedule ensures seamless connectivity for business and leisure travelers alike, making Nairobi more accessible to global passengers while supporting Kenya’s broader tourism strategy of attracting 5 million international visitors by 2030.

Supporting Kenya’s Tourism and Economic Vision

Emirates’ third daily flight is expected to support Kenya’s fast-growing tourism and hospitality sectors. As the country works to expand its international visitor footprint, the airline’s global reach of nearly 150 destinations provides a strong bridge for inbound travelers, particularly from Europe, the Middle East, and the United States.

Nairobi remains one of Africa’s most influential travel and business hubs, offering access to world-renowned national parks, wildlife reserves, coastal destinations, and a rapidly expanding business ecosystem. Enhanced international accessibility is projected to stimulate tourism revenue, trade flow, and local economic development.

Strengthening the Emirates–Kenya Airways Partnership

Emirates’ new flight frequency has been designed to complement Kenya Airways’ regional network. Through the existing interline agreement, passengers can benefit from smoother connections to destinations such as Rwanda, Kilimanjaro, Mozambique, and Burundi.

Since the partnership’s launch in 2023, more than 31,000 passengers have utilized the combined networks, with an equal split in bookings — highlighting the growing synergy between both airlines.

Increased Cargo Capacity

Alongside supporting passenger traffic, the new flight will add an additional 280 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity between Nairobi and Dubai. This increase is particularly valuable for Kenya’s export sector, which relies heavily on the transportation of perishable goods like fresh produce and flowers.

Emirates SkyCargo already operates three weekly freighter services to Nairobi, offering more than 1,100 tonnes of cargo capacity. The added lift will help Kenyan exporters reach major global markets with shorter transit times and greater flexibility.

Premium Service with Boeing 777 Aircraft

Emirates will operate the new flight with its three-class Boeing 777 aircraft, featuring First, Business, and Economy Class. Nairobi remains one of the few African cities served with Emirates’ exclusive First Class cabin on a Boeing 777, providing travelers with a premium experience that includes private suites, fine dining, and award-winning hospitality.

Continued Growth and Investment in Kenya

Emirates reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Kenya in 2024 by opening its first Emirates World retail store in Africa, located in Nairobi. The state-of-the-art facility provides travelers with immersive product displays, personalized travel services, and convenient ticketing options.

The launch of the third daily flight aligns with Emirates’ ongoing efforts to support Kenya’s tourism ambitions, trade potential, and global integration.

Bookings Open for March 2026

The new Dubai–Nairobi frequency is now available for booking through the Emirates website, mobile app, Emirates World stores, and authorized travel partners. With three daily flights, passengers will enjoy greater flexibility, improved connectivity, and enhanced travel convenience on one of the region’s most important international routes.

Emirates’ expansion underscores the airline’s confidence in Kenya’s growing aviation and tourism sectors, while offering travelers from around the world more opportunities to experience the country’s economic vibrancy, cultural richness, and natural beauty.