Starting 1st March 2026, Emirates will launch a third daily flight to Nairobi, marking a major milestone as the airline celebrates 30 years of operations in Kenya.
With this addition, Emirates will operate 21 flights per week between Nairobi and Dubai, connecting travellers to nearly 150 global destinations.
Enhanced Global Connectivity for Kenyan Travellers
The new flight introduces an early morning arrival and departure, improving two-way access to key markets in Europe (UK, France, Norway, and Italy) and the United States. This strategic move supports Kenya’s goal to attract 5 million international tourists by 2030.
- EK717 departs Dubai at 00:55 hrs, arriving in Nairobi at 05:05 hrs
- EK718 departs Nairobi at 06:50 hrs, arriving in Dubai at 12:50 hrs
Premium Travel Experience on Boeing 777
Emirates’ third daily service will be operated on a three-class Boeing 777, offering passengers access to the airline’s exclusive First Class cabins—available only on Nairobi routes.
The expansion responds to strong demand, with current double daily flights operating at high seat occupancy.
Seamless Regional Travel with Kenya Airways
The new schedule is optimised for interline connectivity with Kenya Airways, enabling smooth onward travel to regional destinations like
- Rwanda
- Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)
- Mozambique
- Burundi
Since the partnership began in 2023, over 31,000 passengers have benefited, with bookings split nearly evenly between the two airlines.
Expanded Cargo Capacity for Kenyan Exports
Beyond passenger travel, the additional flight adds 280 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity, supporting the export of perishables like fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Emirates SkyCargo now offers over 1,100 tonnes of weekly capacity in and out of Nairobi, including three dedicated freighters.
Strengthening Kenya–UAE Economic Ties
The flight expansion aligns with the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement signed earlier this year between Kenya and the UAE. Emirates continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating trade and tourism, reinforcing bilateral relations.
Emirates World Store Debuts in Nairobi
In 2024, Emirates launched Africa’s first Emirates World store in Nairobi, offering immersive product displays and expert travel consultations. The store enhances the airline’s on-ground customer experience, complementing its premium in-flight services.
Emirates’ Legacy in Kenya
Since its inaugural flight in 1995, Emirates has carried over 6.6 million passengers to and from Kenya. Popular inbound markets include South Korea, China, Thailand, and Australia, while outbound travellers favour destinations like Shanghai, Melbourne, and New York.
