Africa-Press – Uganda. Emirates Airline is celebrating 25 years of operations in Uganda, underscoring its role in boosting tourism, expanding air connectivity, and supporting community initiatives since its inaugural flight to Entebbe in 2000.
The Dubai-based carrier has transported 2.8 million passengers on the Dubai–Entebbe route, operating over 15,900 flights in the past quarter-century.
Uganda remains a key African market in Emirates’ global network, linking travelers to destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Speaking at Entebbe International Airport on Wednesday, Emirates’ Country Manager for Uganda, Mohamed Taher, said the airline had steadily grown its presence by investing in technology, partnerships, and customer experience.
“Uganda is not only a key market on our network, but also one of our most loved destinations in Africa,” Taher said.
“We are proud to have built strong ties with our customers and partners over the last 25 years and to play a pivotal role in supporting Uganda’s aviation and tourism growth.”
Emirates credited its collaboration with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) for promoting the country’s natural and cultural attractions abroad.
Established two years ago, the partnership focuses on showcasing Uganda’s wildlife, adventure tourism, and cultural experiences in key global markets.
The airline reported a 16% increase in passenger numbers on the Dubai–Entebbe route since January 2025, with most inbound travelers coming from the United States, China, India, the United Kingdom, Thailand, and the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
UTB officials attending the event said the partnership has helped position Uganda as a preferred destination for long-haul tourists.
Since launching operations, Emirates has upgraded its aircraft and increased flight frequency to meet rising demand.
Initially operating three weekly flights via Nairobi and Addis Ababa, Emirates began direct services to Entebbe in 2007.
In 2015, it introduced the Boeing 777-200LR, increasing capacity by 12%, and now operates a three-class Boeing 777-300ER—the only international service offering First Class in and out of Uganda.
To mark its 25-year milestone, Emirates operated a special one-off flight featuring its refurbished four-class Boeing 777, part of a USD $5 billion fleet retrofit programme to modernize 219 aircraft by 2026.
During a static tour of the aircraft, Ugandan officials—including Works and Transport Minister Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala and Uganda Civil Aviation Authority Director General Fred Bamwesigye—experienced the redesigned cabins, including the Premium Economy class unveiled in Uganda for the first time.
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