Dubai-based airline, Flydubai, is set to make history on January 17, 2024, by launching direct flights to Mombasa, Kenya.
This eagerly awaited development comes eight years after Flydubai was granted the rights to operate this route by former Kenyan Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia in 2016.
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With this launch, Flydubai will become the first national carrier to offer nonstop flights from Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), to the stunning Kenyan coastal city of Mombasa.
The airline plans to operate these direct flights four times a week, providing convenient options for travelers on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Departing from Terminal Three at the Dubai International Airport (DXB), these flights are expected to ease travel between the UAE and Kenya significantly.
How much will a flight be from Mombasa to Dubai using FlyDubai?
One of the most exciting aspects of this announcement is the variety of fare options Flydubai is offering. For those seeking a premium experience, return business class fares from Dubai to Mombasa start at AED4,200 (approximately Sh165,950), while the economy class lite fares begin at AED1,600 (approximately Sh63,219) depending on the season.
I have noticed that fares at the tine of writing range between Ksh 70,000 and Ksh 76,000.
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On the return journey, business class fares start at $1,500 (approximately Sh217,695), and economy class lite fares begin at $500 (approximately Sh72,565). These competitive prices aim to make travel between these two destinations more accessible to a wider range of travelers.
Flydubai’s partnership with Emirates to codeshare on this route is another noteworthy development. This collaboration will offer passengers even more options for connections through Dubai’s bustling international aviation hub. With Emirates’ extensive network, travelers can seamlessly link their journeys, making it easier to explore multiple destinations.
With the launch of direct flights to Mombasa, Flydubai expands its footprint in Africa, adding to its growing network of 11 destinations in 10 countries. This expansion aligns with Dubai’s increasing investment from African companies since Expo 2020, fostering trade and tourism between the UAE and East African markets.
Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO of Flydubai, expressed his optimism about this venture, stating, “We see a lot of potential in the African markets and look forward to growing our presence in the continent as we continue to expand our network and fleet in the coming years.“
This move by Flydubai comes in the wake of Kenya’s open skies policy, which allows foreign airlines easier access to national airports.
In July, Ethiopian Airlines was granted rights to operate directly into Mombasa twice a week, setting the stage for increased competition in the region.
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In conclusion, Flydubai’s upcoming direct flights to Mombasa mark a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion efforts and further strengthen the ties between the UAE and Kenya. With competitive fares, convenient flight schedules, and the support of Emirates’ codeshare agreement, this development is poised to benefit both business and leisure travelers looking to explore these exciting destinations.