Dubai-based carrier, Flydubai, has launched direct flights from Dubai to Moi International Airport (MIA), Mombasa, marking a milestone as the first airline from the UAE to operate direct flights to Kenya’s coastal city.
- •This follows an open skies policy embraced by the government in mid-2023.
- •The policy also allows Ethiopian Airlines to fly directly to the coastal city twice each week.
- •Flydubai will operate four weekly flights from the United Arab Emirates to Mombasa.
Flydubai’s service to Mombasa is scheduled to operate specifically on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, departing from Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3. It will codeshare on this route, providing passengers with even more options for seamless connections through Dubai’s international aviation hub (DXB).
“Today signifies a momentous occasion in Kenya’s ever-evolving aviation landscape. Flydubai’s arrival at Moi International Airport not only bolsters connectivity between our two nations but also serves as a testament to the thriving partnership between Kenya and the United Arab Emirates,” noted the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA).
Despite the direct benefits of open skies policy, Kenya Airways has pointed out that in addition to being forced to compete in its home market, the government is entering one-sided air freedom deals. For example, while Ethiopian Airlines is now competing with KQ in Kenya, KQ does not have the same rights in EA’s home market.
Tourism Sector Recovers
To further boost tourism prospects, Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Tourism Alfred Mutua said he will be visiting all coastal counties in the coming days to explore collaboration opportunities with Governors, aiming to diversify tourist attractions beyond wildlife and beaches.
“Anticipating substantial tourism growth, short-stay establishments like Air bnb’s will play a crucial role. We are in the process of developing regulations to govern this essential aspect of the sector,” he said.
He also noted that the resumption of cruise travel to the coast has seen a steady increase since 2022. In 2024, Kenya has already welcomed two cruises at the Port of Mombasa, the latest bringing 2,220 voyagers.
Fly Dubai To Fly 4 Times To Mombasa Under Kenya’s Open Sky Policy – Kenyan Wallstreet
