Emirates is set to introduce its Airbus A350 aircraft on the Dubai-Nairobi route from October 25, 2026, bringing the airline’s latest cabin experience to Kenya and introducing its Premium Economy product to the market for the first time.
The A350 will operate flights EK717 and EK718, making Nairobi the 32nd destination on Emirates’ global network to receive the next-generation aircraft.
The deployment will give passengers travelling between Kenya and Dubai access to upgraded Business and Economy Class cabins alongside the new Premium Economy offering.
Premium Economy Debuts in Kenya
Emirates’ Premium Economy cabin features leather reclining seats with adjustable headrests, increased legroom and generous seat pitch. Passengers will also have access to in-seat charging points, a wood-finished cocktail table and a 13.3-inch entertainment screen.
The cabin will offer complimentary amenity kits on select flights, including the Dubai-Nairobi route, as well as Chandon Vintage Brut 2017 sparkling wine.
Emirates Country Manager in Kenya Christophe Leloup said the A350 deployment represents a new chapter for the airline’s operations in the country.
“The arrival of the A350 in Nairobi marks an exciting new chapter for Emirates in Kenya,” Leloup said, adding that the aircraft will offer customers greater comfort and choice.
Upgraded Business and Economy Cabins
The A350 will accommodate 298 passengers across Business, Premium Economy and Economy Class cabins.
Business Class will feature a 1-2-1 configuration, giving every passenger direct aisle access. The cabin includes fully lie-flat seats, personal minibars and wireless charging, while a dedicated snack display area will provide refreshments during flights.
Economy Class passengers will receive upgraded seats featuring leather headrests and generous seat pitch. The cabin will also feature Emirates’ ice inflight entertainment system through 13.3-inch 4K adjustable touchscreens.
More Flights Between Nairobi and Dubai
The A350 deployment comes after Emirates increased its Nairobi operations to three daily flights in July, bringing the route’s frequency to 21 flights per week.
The expanded schedule provides passengers with additional connections between Kenya and destinations across Europe and the United States through Dubai.
Emirates has also expanded its customer services in Kenya. Nairobi hosts Africa’s first Emirates World store, which opened in 2024 to provide customers with access to the airline’s products and personalised services.
Earlier this year, Emirates partnered with Cellulant to introduce a split-payment option for Kenyan travellers, allowing customers to combine multiple payment methods when purchasing air tickets.
Tickets for the A350-operated flights are available through Emirates’ website and app, travel agents and the Emirates World Store in Nairobi.