Entebbe, Uganda – Emirates has reached a major milestone in its operations to Uganda, having carried 2.8 million passengers on 15,900 flights since its inaugural flight to Entebbe in 2000. As the airline marks 25 years of continuous service, it has reaffirmed its commitment to connecting Uganda with the world through Dubai and its expansive network of over 140 destinations.
To commemorate the anniversary, Emirates operated a special one-off celebratory flight to Entebbe using its refurbished Boeing 777, part of a $5 billion retrofit programme. The aircraft featured Emirates’ new Premium Economy cabin, unveiled in Uganda for the first time alongside upgraded First, Business and Economy Class cabins.
Speaking at the event, General Edward Katumba Wamala, Uganda’s Minister of Works and Transportation, praised Emirates for its consistent operations and strategic role in Uganda’s aviation and tourism growth.
“When we say Emirates operates daily flights into Uganda, it is not just about frequency, it’s about confidence. Emirates has stood with us for 25 years, and that consistency speaks volumes. You’ve connected Uganda to the world and contributed to our transition from limited regional access to global reach.”
A Legacy of Growth and Partnership
From launching three weekly flights in 2000 via Nairobi and Addis Ababa, Emirates transitioned to direct services in 2007, steadily increasing capacity and upgrading aircraft. Today, Emirates is the only international airline offering a First Class cabin to and from Uganda, with its Boeing 777-300ER serving Entebbe in a three-class configuration.
In 2015, Emirates introduced the Boeing 777-200LR on the route, boosting seat capacity by 12%. Since January 2025 alone, the airline has seen a 16% increase in traffic on the Dubai-Entebbe route, with strong demand from markets such as the US, China, India, UK, Thailand, and the Middle East.
Promoting Tourism and Investing in Communities
Over the last two years, Emirates has partnered with the Uganda Tourism Board to promote the country’s rich tourism offerings—from wildlife and adventure sports to cultural heritage across its global markets.
Beyond aviation, Emirates has also invested in local communities. Through its ‘Dubai 7s for Good’ initiative in 2024, the airline raised UGX 587 million to support infrastructure and sports development at North Road Primary School in Uganda. This included the construction of a rugby pitch with shaded bleachers, solar-powered water stations, and the donation of sports equipment.
Showcasing the Future of Air Travel
The refurbished Boeing 777 showcased during the celebration is part of Emirates’ extensive retrofit programme, aimed at modernising 219 aircraft across its fleet. So far, 72 aircraft have been upgraded—36 A380s and 36 Boeing 777s—with Uganda set to benefit as the programme expands into 2026 and beyond.
During a static tour of the aircraft, guests including top aviation and tourism officials experienced Emirates’ next-generation cabin interiors, lie-flat seats in premium cabins, fine dining in Premium Economy, and family-friendly amenities in Economy.
Strong Ties, Shared Vision
Mohamed Taher, Emirates’ Country Manager for Uganda, expressed pride in the airline’s long-standing presence:
“Uganda is not just a market, it’s a valued partner. We are honoured to have played a part in the country’s journey by offering world-class service and connecting Ugandans to global opportunities. Our shared success is built on mutual trust, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence.”
General Katumba Wamala added that Uganda Airlines is also expanding, now serving 18 destinations, and emphasized the need for cooperation in addressing the continent’s connectivity gaps.
“International carriers like Emirates are critical in our aviation journey. Their product excellence and wide-reaching network help position Uganda as a preferred tourism and business hub.”
Katumba reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive aviation ecosystem:
“Together, with trusted partners like Emirates, we will continue working towards a brighter and more connected future—not just for our airlines, but for our people and economies.”
