Emirates’ third daily flight (EK717) between Dubai and Nairobi touched down in Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at just after 5:00 am this morning. EK717 is Emirates’ 21st weekly flight between Dubai and Nairobi.
Departing Dubai at 01:20 and arriving in Kenya at 05:25, EK717 offers connectivity from US and European destinations. EK718, the return flight, departs Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 07:10 and arrives in Dubai at 13:15, making it a convenient gateway for onward connections to Europe.
Speaking about the launch, Christophe Leloup, Emirates’ Country Manager for Kenya commented:
“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 for people 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’ first flight to Nairobi took off in 1995 with over six million passengers travelling on the route in the three decades since. The airline has also connected Kenya to over 138 destinations globally, via Dubai.
Teresia Mbaika, CBS, Principal Secretary, Aviation and Aerospace Development 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 cordial and mutually beneficial relations over the years, and we look forward to strengthening this partnership even further. I am also confident that Emirates will soon benefit from the ongoing modernisation of JKIA, which is designed to improve efficiency, capacity, and the overall passenger experience.”
Emirates and Kenya Airlines finalised an interline partnership in 2023 which, to date, has allowed over 31,000 passengers to travel between the two airlines’ networks. The launch of Emirate’s third daily flight to Nairobi also increases cargo capacity by 280 tonnes.
Beyond aviation, Kenya and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement earlier this year, signalling further cooperation between the two countries.
How do you think the launch of a third daily flight between Dubai and Nairobi will benefit Kenyan tourism? Share your opinions in the comment section below.
Aviation Reporter - An English graduate and an avid writer. Whilst studying for her degree Lorna undertook a work placement at the BBC which cultivated an interest in journalism. After graduating she embarked on a career in the civil service but now wants to pursue a passion for writing and news. Lorna is a keen traveller. Her favourite destination is Egypt which she has visited 12 times!
