Emirates Airlines has revealed plans to resume flight operations between Lagos and Dubai starting from October 1, 2024.
The airline intends to operate a daily service utilizing the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, reconnecting both leisure and business travellers to Dubai and its extensive network spanning over 140 destinations.
The airline’s Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, expressed enthusiasm about restoring the Lagos-Dubai route, acknowledging its historical popularity among Nigerian travellers. Kazim also extended gratitude to the Nigerian government for their collaboration and assistance in reinstating the vital air link.
The decision to suspend Dubai-Lagos flights in 2022 stemmed from challenges faced by Emirates Airlines in repatriating funds from Nigeria amidst diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
Visa restrictions further complicated travel between Nigeria and the UAE, a prominent destination for Nigerian migrants and tourists.
Efforts to mend diplomatic relations culminated in a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in September 2023, held in Abu Dhabi.
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, confirmed Emirates Airlines’ commitment to resuming flight operations in Nigerian airports, although the UAE has yet to officially address the visa ban on Nigerian travellers.
