Emirates Airline is celebrating 25 years of operations in Uganda, highlighting its significant contribution to boosting tourism, enhancing air connectivity, and supporting community initiatives since its first flight to Entebbe in 2000.
The Dubai-based airline has transported 2.8 million passengers on the Dubai–Entebbe route, operating over 15,900 flights during this period. Uganda continues to be a vital market for Emirates, connecting 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, expressed pride in the airline’s growth. “Uganda is not only a key market in our network but also one of our most cherished destinations in Africa,” Taher said. “We are proud of the strong relationships we have built with our customers and partners over the last 25 years, and we are honored to play a crucial role in Uganda’s aviation and tourism development.”
Emirates highlighted its collaboration with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), which has helped promote Uganda’s natural and cultural attractions on the global stage. The partnership, established two years ago, focuses on showcasing Uganda’s wildlife, adventure tourism, and cultural experiences in major international markets.
The airline also reported a 16% increase in passenger numbers on the Dubai–Entebbe route since January 2025, with the majority of inbound travelers arriving from the United States, China, India, the UK, Thailand, and the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE. UTB officials present at the event noted that the partnership has been instrumental in positioning Uganda as a sought-after destination for long-haul tourists.
Since its launch in Uganda, Emirates has continuously upgraded its fleet and increased flight frequency to meet growing demand. Originally operating three weekly flights via Nairobi and Addis Ababa, the airline began direct services to Entebbe in 2007. In 2015, Emirates introduced the Boeing 777-200LR, which boosted capacity by 12%, and now operates the Boeing 777-300ER, the only international service offering First Class to and from Uganda.
To commemorate its 25-year anniversary, Emirates operated a special one-off flight featuring its refurbished four-class Boeing 777, part of a $5 billion fleet modernization program aimed at retrofitting 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—had the opportunity to explore the newly designed cabins, including the Premium Economy class, which was unveiled in Uganda for the first time.