Emirates Airlines Eyes Major Expansion in Kenya as Passenger and Cargo Demand Surge

Kenya, 29 October 2025 - Dubai-based carrier Emirates is signaling a significant expansion of its operations in Kenya, citing growing demand from business, leisure travel, and cargo logistics.

The move comes at a time when Kenya is aggressively promoting tourism growth and increasing its role as a regional export hub.

Currently operating two daily flights between Dubai and Nairobi, Emirates says it is well placed to scale up.

Christophe Leloup, Regional Director and Country Manager for Kenya, noted that Kenya is Emirates’ second-best-performing African market after South Africa.

“If the ambition of tourism grows to five million tourists by 2030, it will require more seats, more capacity, and more frequency from Emirates,” he said.

In addition to passenger growth, Emirates is keen on expanding its cargo footprint in Kenya. Leloup revealed that in 2024, the airline transported 16,000 tonnes of Kenyan flowers, fruits, and vegetables to the UAE, Europe, and other markets, a reflection of Kenya’s export potential.

The Economic Ripple Effect

The expansion of Emirates in Kenya carries layered significance.

First, it underscores Nairobi’s role as a gateway for East Africa: as connectivity improves, Kenyan travellers gain better access to global destinations, and regional exporters benefit from added cargo capacity. With Kenya having signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE, the timing aligns strategically.

Second, increased connectivity means improved access for Kenya’s key export sectors, particularly horticulture and floriculture, which rely on reliable airfreight to global markets. Greater cargo capacity from airlines like Emirates can reduce lead times, improve freshness for exported goods, and support growth in agricultural value chains.

Third, the expansion speaks to a broader shift in how Kenya positions itself in the global aviation and trade ecosystem. Reduced travel costs, improved frequency, and more cargo options can encourage investment in tourism, trade logistics, and services across borders.

What to Watch

Flight frequency & new routes: Will Emirates add more Nairobi flights or start direct services from other Kenyan cities, such as Mombasa or Kisumu?

Cargo capacity growth: As Leloup noted, the airline plans to scale freighter capacity. How soon will Kenya benefit from these additions?

Impact of travel/aviation taxes: Emirates has flagged concerns over proposed additional levies on air tickets in Kenya, warning they could dampen growth and competitiveness.

Partnerships with local airlines: The existing codeshare with Kenya Airways and how that supports intra-Africa connectivity will be relevant.