Nairobi – Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has officially resumed direct flights to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, marking its return to the Kenyan capital for the first time since 2012.
“We are delighted to announce the launch of direct flights to Nairobi, offering convenient flight options to our passengers,” said Jeffrey Goh, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Air Group, during the inaugural ceremony. “The Nairobi route will enhance connectivity for both business and leisure travelers, fostering stronger ties between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Republic of Kenya.”
Starting June 2nd, 2025, the airline will operate five weekly flights to Nairobi.
Flights will be available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays, with two flights offered on Fridays, all operated by an Airbus A320neo aircraft.
Gulf Air views Nairobi as a strategic addition to its network, supporting its expansion into new markets and providing enhanced connectivity for both business and leisure travelers between Bahrain, East Africa, and beyond.
Kenya is becoming a top destination for airlines, as evidenced by major airlines either reestablishing routes from Nairobi or establishing new routes to Nairobi.
This can be seen with airlines such as Etihad reintroducing direct flights from Kenya to Abu Dhabi, SalamAir to Oman, and AirAsia to Kuala Lumpur. However, Air Asia is discontinuing the route, citing low demand.
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), the flight was greeted with a water salute, followed by a ceremonial reception attended by representatives from Gulf Air and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO).
Jeffrey Goh further commented,
“The launch of our Nairobi service marks a significant milestone in Gulf Air’s strategic growth journey. Africa represents a key growth market for the airline, and our expansion into the continent reflects our long-term vision to build a broader, more connected network that meets the evolving needs of our passengers and contributes to our regional development.”
While commenting on the arrival, Acting Managing Director of Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Nicholas Bodo, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Gulf Air back to Nairobi. This renewed partnership not only strengthens the ties between Kenya and the Kingdom of Bahrain, but also reaffirms Nairobi’s position as a gateway to Africa. The new service will enhance connectivity, create opportunities for trade and tourism, and provide our passengers with greater choice.”
Passengers can book flights and access updated schedules through the Gulf Air mobile application, the airline’s official website, gulfair.com, or through their preferred travel agents.
