Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is marking three decades of operations to Nairobi, underscoring its enduring role in strengthening air connectivity between Kenya and the global market. Since its inaugural flight in October 1995, the Dubai-based carrier has transported more than 6.6 million passengers to and from the Kenyan capital on over 34,000 flights.

Currently operating double daily Boeing 777 services, Emirates links Nairobi to more than 145 destinations across six continents, serving both business and leisure travelers. Passenger traffic between Kenya and major markets in Asia, Australasia and North America remains robust, with routes connecting Nairobi to cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Sydney, Melbourne, New York and Washington.

In 2023, Emirates expanded its regional footprint through an interline partnership with Kenya Airways, offering customers streamlined connections on a single ticket across East Africa. Since its launch, over 31,000 passengers have used the partnership, with destinations including Rwanda, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique and Burundi proving especially popular.

“Nairobi has long been one of the busiest destinations in our African network,” said Christophe Leloup, Emirates’ Country Manager for Kenya. “For 30 years, we’ve invested steadily in our operations to deliver our signature world-class service and to support Kenya’s growth as a leading economic and tourism hub.”

Earlier this year, Emirates opened Africa’s first Emirates World retail store in Nairobi. Located on Riverside Drive, the modern facility offers customers travel planning services, interactive displays and an immersive experience reflecting the airline’s latest retail concept.

Emirates continues to be the only carrier serving Kenya with private First Class suites, and offers competitive baggage allowances and regionally inspired cuisine prepared by award-winning chefs. Its inflight entertainment system features over 6,500 channels, including Kenyan films, television and music.

Kenya and the United Arab Emirates strengthened their long-standing trade relations this year with the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Emirates SkyCargo supports this relationship through freight services that include three weekly dedicated freighters to Nairobi, transporting high-value exports such as fresh flowers. In 2024 alone, the airline moved more than 16,000 tonnes of Kenyan cut flowers to markets worldwide within 24 hours of harvest.

Emirates employs more than 1,100 Kenyans across its global network, including 254 cabin crew and 41 pilots. The airline also supports local social initiatives through the Emirates Airline Foundation, which funds programs for children in need, including partnerships with the Little Prince Nursery and Primary School, Alfajiri Street Kids, and the Starehe Boys’ Centre.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev Macambira

Alexander Agafiev Macambira is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.