Expanded Flight Schedule
The new daily direct service, scheduled to launch on March 1, 2026, increases Emirates’ weekly flights to Nairobi to 21. Flight EK717 will leave Dubai at 00:55 and arrive in Nairobi at 05:05. The return flight, EK718, will depart from Nairobi at 06:50 and arrive in Dubai at 12:50. All times mentioned are local.
Improved Connectivity
The early morning arrival and departure are designed to improve connections with key destinations in Europe and the United States. This supports Kenya’s tourism target of attracting 5 million international visitors by 2030.
Passenger Experience
The service will be operated by a three-class Boeing 777, offering Emirates’ full product range, including First Class cabins. The airline has experienced strong demand on its existing double-daily flights, underscoring the need for additional capacity.
Regional Travel Links
The schedule has been aligned with Kenya Airways services, allowing smooth onward travel to regional destinations such as Rwanda, Kilimanjaro, Mozambique and Burundi. Since 2023, over 31,000 passengers have utilised the interline partnership between the two airlines.
Cargo Capacity
The third daily flight will add 280 tonnes of weekly cargo space, supporting the export of perishable goods, including fresh produce and flowers. Combined with freighter services, Emirates will offer over 1,100 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity to and from Nairobi.
Longstanding Partnership
Emirates has carried over 6.6 million passengers to and from Kenya since its inaugural flight in 1995. The airline also opened Africa’s first Emirates World store in Nairobi in 2024, further strengthening its presence in the region.
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