Emirates mulls expansion of Kenya operations as passenger, cargo demand surge

The Dubai-based carrier, which currently operates double daily flights to Nairobi, says the move would help meet growing demand from business, leisure, and cargo clients.

According to Emirates Regional Director and Country Manager for Kenya, Christophe Leloup, Kenya remains the airline’s second-best performing market in Africa, trailing only behind South Africa.

 He noted that the country’s expanding air travel demand and government efforts to boost tourism present an opportunity for Emirates to scale up operations.

“If the ambition of tourism grows to five million tourists by 2030, it will require more seats, more capacity, and more frequency from Emirates,” Leloup said. “We can realistically offer between 20 and 25 percent growth in the next three years.”

Since commencing operations in Kenya three decades ago, Emirates has transported over 6.6 million passengers through Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. 

The airline’s expansion plans align with the Kenyan government’s goal of attracting five million tourists within the next five years, a move expected to boost demand for international flight capacity.

Beyond passenger flights, Emirates is also eyeing growth in Kenya’s cargo segment. Leloup revealed that the airline plans to introduce five new freighter aircraft as part of its upcoming fleet expansion of 21 aircraft, a move that will enhance its ability to handle Kenya’s thriving exports sector.

In 2024 alone, Emirates transported 16,000 tons of Kenyan flowers, fruits, and vegetables to markets in the United Arab Emirates, Europe, and beyond. The airline aims to tap further into Kenya’s agricultural exports, including fresh produce, meat, and the country’s world-renowned cut flowers.

“Earlier this year, Kenya and the UAE signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) aimed at boosting bilateral trade,” Leloup said. “Emirates fully supports Kenya’s goal to expand its exports to the UAE and to global markets.”

Despite its optimistic outlook, Emirates has raised concerns over proposed additional levies on air tickets in Kenya. Leloup warned that such measures could drive up travel costs and slow the region’s aviation growth.

“I don’t think this is something that IATA or airlines are supporting,” he said. “It adds to the cost of travel, and in Africa, one of the main challenges remains the high cost of air transportation, especially given the limited road infrastructure for regional movement.”

Emirates currently employs over 100,000 staff globally, including more than 1,000 Kenyans, among them 250 cabin crew and over 40 pilots.

 The airline’s renewed focus on Kenya underscores its commitment to enhancing connectivity across its network of 150 global destinations.