By Ken Muthomi - Reporter
Kenya, July 1 2026 - Emirates, one of the most prominent United Arab Emirates carriers, has launched its 3rd daily flight to Nairobi.
In a statement, the Kenya Airports Authority said that the airline shall commence the additional daily service on Wednesday, July 1, at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
According to the authority, the flight will not only strengthen the country’s connectivity to the world but also boost other key sectors such as tourism and trade.
“The introduction of a 3rd daily Emirates service is a strong vote of confidence in Kenya as a premier destination for tourism, trade, & investment. More flights mean greater intl. connectivity, increased visitor arrivals, & enhanced opportunities for biz. & economic growth,” the authority stated.
“As Kenya's principal aviation gateway, JKIA continues to strengthen the country's connectivity to the world. We congratulate Emirates on this milestone and look forward to deepening our partnership as we continue positioning Kenya as Africa's gateway,” it added.
The launch ceremony was graced by key officials including the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development PS Teresia Mbaika, Tourism PS Julius Bitok, UAE Ambassador to Kenya Salim Ibrahim Alnaqbi, and Emirates Country Manager, Mr. Christophe Leloup among others.
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The development comes even as the government ramps up efforts to expand and refurbish key infrastructure at JKIA in order to accommodate more flights and passengers.
A week ago, the government signed a Ksh. 154.2 billion contract with the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) to modernize and expand the airport.
The project will take almost three years to complete, and is expected to raise capacity from the current 7.5 million to 22 million passengers per year.
The project will include the construction of a new 10-million-capacity passenger terminal, upgraded airfield infrastructure (such as rapid-exit taxiways to reduce delays), cargo zones, and multimodal transit connections.