Explore Qatar Airways’ New Codeshare Partners Across 19 African Destinations
DOHA- Qatar Airways (QR) and Kenya Airways (KQ) have revealed an expansion of their codeshare partnership, introducing new routes that will link Nairobi (NBO) and Doha (DOH) to 19 destinations across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
Starting from October 26, 2025, travelers will be able to book these codeshare flights, with ticket sales commencing on October 21. This partnership is a response to the rising demand for travel between these regions, facilitating better connectivity through Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO).
Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways Codeshare
The broadening of the codeshare agreement allows Kenya Airways customers to travel between Nairobi and Doha while connecting to 10 essential cities through Qatar Airways’ global network, including Bahrain (BAH), Colombo (CMB), Islamabad (ISB), Karachi (KHI), Malé (MLE), Singapore (SIN), and Tokyo Narita (NRT).
On the other hand, Qatar Airways passengers can now utilize Nairobi as a gateway to eight destinations within Kenya Airways’ network, including Lilongwe (LLW), Livingstone (LVI), Juba (JUB), Nampula (APL), Ndola (NLA), and Victoria Falls (VFA). These routes enhance travel options across Africa and bolster Qatar Airways’ presence on the continent.
Thierry Antinori, Chief Commercial Officer of Qatar Airways, noted that this partnership signifies a major advancement in the airline’s strategy to strengthen its foothold in Africa, aided by an additional third daily flight to Nairobi.
Julius Thairu, Kenya Airways’ Chief Commercial and Customer Officer, remarked that the collaboration will enrich connectivity for travelers in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
Expanding Access Through Strategic Hubs
With these codeshare flights, passengers from over 170 Qatar Airways destinations can now reach key business and leisure markets in Africa served by Kenya Airways. The seamless connections through Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) make it easier for travelers to access regional capitals and tourist attractions.
Meanwhile, Kenya Airways customers can enjoy smoother access to Qatar Airways’ extensive network via Hamad International Airport (DOH), renowned as the Best Airport in the Middle East for an impressive 11 consecutive years, according to Skytrax.
Qatar Airways Privilege Club members will also be able to earn Avios on Kenya Airways-operated codeshare routes, enhancing the overall customer experience.
Future Collaboration and Growth
The two airlines aim to strengthen cooperation beyond just codeshare agreements, exploring opportunities in airport operations, lounges, sustainability initiatives, product procurement, and cargo services. There are also plans to collaborate on maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) projects and continuous network expansion.
This strengthened partnership represents a significant step in connecting African air travel with the broader global framework, facilitating smoother transit for passengers between continents.
Airline Profiles
Kenya Airways (KQ) – Referred to as The Pride of Africa, this airline operates 45 destinations worldwide, of which 37 are within Africa. As the sole African member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Kenya Airways connects passengers to over 1,060 destinations in 173 countries. The airline received accolades for Best Airline Staff and Best Cabin Crew in Africa at the 2024 Skytrax Awards.
Qatar Airways (QR) – A nine-time winner of the World’s Best Airline award at Skytrax World Airline Awards, including in 2025. The airline services more than 170 global destinations from its hub at Hamad International Airport (DOH), a facility that has been named the World’s Best Airport multiple times.
