Flydubai’s New Nairobi Route Boosts Connectivity And Visitor Arrivals

Fifth Airline To Launch Flights To Kenya This Year As Government Efforts To Enhance Air Access Earn Industry Praise

Kenya’s tourism sector is celebrating yet another win as Dubai-based carrier Flydubai made its maiden landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) this week, marking a new milestone in the country’s growing aviation and tourism connectivity. The airline, which touched down on Wednesday with 80 passengers on board, becomes the fifth international carrier to commence operations into Kenya this year — a development industry leaders have lauded as a testament to government efforts in opening up the skies.

The low-cost carrier will now operate four weekly flights to Nairobi, complementing its existing daily service to Mombasa — further strengthening Kenya’s links with the UAE and the wider Gulf region.

Speaking during the reception of the inaugural flight, Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) CEO Nicanor Sabula commended the government’s continued support in attracting new airlines.

“This is the fifth airline to make a maiden entry this year alone — it’s commendable,” Sabula said. “We now encourage travel agents to seize these new opportunities to package Kenya better and attract more travellers.”

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, through a speech delivered by Kenya Tourism Board Acting CEO Allan Njoroge, described the new route as “a strategic bridge positioning Kenya at the heart of global tourism and trade flows.” She noted that Dubai’s status as a major global hub will enhance accessibility to Kenya for travellers from the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa, while also boosting business ties and investment opportunities.

“Travellers from the Gulf region seek authenticity, adventure, and high-quality experiences — all of which Kenya offers in abundance,” Miano said. “With over 42,000 visitors from the Middle East in 2024, up 15% from the previous year, this new service strengthens our goal of reaching 5.5 million visitors by 2027.”

Flydubai CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith echoed the optimism, describing the Nairobi route as a significant step in deepening trade and tourism ties between Kenya and the UAE.

“Kenya has enormous potential. With this new route, we aim to increase frequency to daily flights for both Nairobi and Mombasa,” he said.

The entry of Flydubai into Nairobi follows the successful launch of its Mombasa service in January 2024, which has since expanded to daily operations. The airline now connects Dubai to 12 African destinations, reinforcing its commitment to Africa as a key growth market.

With Flydubai’s arrival, Kenya continues to strengthen its aviation footprint — enhancing accessibility, creating new opportunities for travel agents and hospitality players, and reaffirming its position as East Africa’s preferred tourism and business gateway.

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