TOURISM SECTOR LAUDS GOVERNMENT FOR INCREASED FLIGHT ARRIVALS
The tourism sector has lauded government efforts in increasing arrival of new flights into the country, a move termed as a major boost to accessibility to the destination.
On Wednesday, Dubai-based carrier Fly Dubai, touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport carrying 80 passengers on board, being the fifth Arline to make maiden entry to the country in the recent past.
In a speech read out by the Kenya Tourism Board’s Acting CEO, Allan Njoroge, on behalf of the Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, described the new route as a strategic bridge that positions Kenya at the center of global tourism and trade flows.
"Dubai today stands as one of the world's most important aviation and business hubs, connecting destinations across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Through this new service, flydubai is bringing that connectivity closer to Kenya, allowing our businesspeople and entrepreneurs easier access to international markets and offering seamless connections for travellers heading to and from Africa," CS Miano said.
Flydubai will operate four-weekly flights to Nairobi, in addition to the airline's existing daily service to Mombasa.
She emphasized that the timing of the launch aligns with Kenya's growing appeal to Middle Eastern travellers, a market segment that has shown remarkable growth.
Kenya welcomed over 42,000 visitors from the Middle East in 2024, representing a 15 percent increase from the previous year, with the UAE accounting for a large share of that growth.
“Travellers from the Gulf region seek authenticity, adventure and high-quality experiences which Kenya offers in abundance. We look forward to welcoming more visitors who will discover our signature tourism offerings and the unmatched warmth of our people," Miano said, adding that the new service will enhance Kenya's pursuit of 5.5 million visitors by 2027.
Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, Ghaith Al Ghaith, in his remarks termed the maiden flight into Nairobi, a major boost to trade and tourism for Kenya.
He said the additional flight, which will fly into Nairobi four times a week, would also enhance connectivity to other destination and thereby increasing visitors into the two countries.
“Kenya has a lot of potential and with this new route, we are optimistic of increasing the frequency of flights to daily for both Mombasa and Nairobi.”
Flydubai's entry into the Nairobi market follows the successful launch of its Mombasa service in January 2024, which has since expanded to daily operations. The airline now serves 12 African destinations, reinforcing its commitment to connecting Dubai with key markets across the continent.