Emirates Marks 25 Years of Dubai-Entebbe Direct Flights Celebration

Emirates, the largest international airline globally, recently marked 25 years of service to Uganda. Since its first flight in 2000, the Dubai-based airline has transported 2.8 million passengers across 15,900 flights, linking Entebbe (EBB) to its expansive network at Dubai International Airport (DXB).

Expanding Operations in Entebbe

Since the launch in 2000, Emirates has strategically enhanced its operations to meet customer demands. Initially, flights operated thrice weekly, connecting through Nairobi and later Addis Ababa, before transitioning to a direct service in 2007.

In 2015, the airline upgraded to the Boeing 777-200LR on this route, replacing the Airbus A330-200, which increased seat capacity by 12%. Today, it operates a three-class Boeing 777-300ER and is the only international carrier offering a first-class option from Entebbe.

Growing Passenger Numbers

As of January 2025, Emirates reported a 16% rise in passenger traffic on the Dubai-Entebbe route, notably from the US, China, India, the UK, Thailand, and the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Celebrating the Anniversary

On this significant anniversary, Emirates Country Manager for Uganda, Mohamed Taher, reflected on the importance of Uganda in their network. He stated, “Uganda is not only a key market on our network but also one of our most loved destinations in Africa. Over the last 25 years, we have forged robust ties with customers, partners, and stakeholders by investing in our operations for best-in-class service.”

Taher added, “As Uganda’s tourism and aviation sectors thrive, we’re proud to connect international travelers to the country and help Ugandans explore the world in comfort.”

To celebrate, Emirates organized a unique one-off flight to Entebbe with a newly refurbished four-class Boeing 777, followed by a static display showcasing the airline’s offerings.

Notable Guests Attend

Key figures from Uganda’s aviation and tourism sectors attended the celebration, including General Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transportation, and Fred Bamwesigye, Director General of Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, along with Emirates’ Vice President of Commercial Operations for Sub-Saharan Africa, Rashid Alardha.

During the static tour, guests experienced the updated Boeing 777, featuring the airline’s next-generation cabins, including a new premium economy offering. The setup allowed attendees to visualize the in-flight experience, from lie-flat seats to a variety of amenities for travelers in economy, including children’s toys.

Aircraft Enhancements

The aircraft used for this milestone has undergone Emirates’ $5 billion retrofit program, which will upgrade 219 A380s and Boeing 777s to improve the onboard experience. This initiative is carried out entirely by Emirates Engineering, and as of now, 72 aircraft have been successfully completed—36 A380s and 37 Boeing 777s.

This program is crucial for maintaining a fresh fleet, especially as the company navigates delays from major manufacturers due to supply chain challenges.

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