Emirates Airlines has made its grand return to Nigeria after a two-year hiatus. The airline’s aircraft landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on October 1, 2024, marking the resumption of its daily operations between Lagos and Dubai ¹ ². This development comes after diplomatic meetings between Nigerian and UAE governments, facilitated by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
Emirates’ Return: What You Need to Know
- Route and Schedule: Emirates will operate daily flights between Lagos and Dubai using a Boeing 777-300ER ¹.
- Flight Details: EK783 departs Dubai at 0945hrs and arrives in Lagos at 1520hrs, while EK784 leaves Lagos at 1730hrs and arrives in Dubai at 0510hrs the next day ¹.
- Capacity and Services: The airline offers 8 First Class suites, 42 Business Class seats, and 304 Economy Class seats, along with regionally inspired meals and over 6,500 channels of entertainment ¹.
- Cargo Services: Emirates SkyCargo will provide over 300 tonnes of bellyhold cargo capacity weekly, supporting Nigerian businesses by exporting goods to key markets ¹.
- Bilateral Air Service Agreement: The Nigerian and UAE governments have signed a new agreement ensuring stronger and mutually beneficial aviation ties [2).
The return of Emirates is expected to boost tourism, business, and cultural exchanges between Nigeria and the UAE, driving economic growth. Kingsley Nwokoma, President of the Association of Foreign Airlines and Representatives in Nigeria, welcomed Emirates’ return, stating it will be a win-win for both countries ².
