Emirates To Now Fly To Madagascar Via The Seychelles

Emirates, the Dubai-based airline, has announced that it will begin operating flights to Madagascar from September 3, 2024. The new route will provide more options and connectivity for travelers, boosting both leisure and business travel to the country. The flights between Dubai (DXB) and Antananarivo (TNR) will operate four times a week, with a linked service to the Seychelles.

The flight times have been carefully scheduled to optimize connections to and from key destinations in Europe, the Far East, West Asia, and the Middle East/GCC. The flight from Dubai to the Seychelles (flight number EK707) will depart at 0855hrs, arriving in Mahe at 1335hrs. It will then continue on to Antananarivo, landing at 1650hrs. The return flight (EK708) will depart Antananarivo at 1835hrs, arriving in Mahe at 2220hrs. The flight will then depart from Mahe at 2350hrs, landing in Dubai at 0420hrs the next day. Flights will operate on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Passengers will also have the option to conveniently fly between the Seychelles and Madagascar.

Madagascar's tourism industry is a key contributor to the country's economy, creating thousands of employment opportunities. The government has set a target of serving one million tourists by 2028. Emirates' new route will provide connectivity to over 140 destinations in its global network, supporting the Ministry of Tourism's strategy to diversify target markets and showcase the natural attractions of the island. Emirates is also in discussions with Air Madagascar to offer further global connectivity to promote tourism and trade.

Adnan Kazim, Emirates' Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, expressed confidence that the new service will have a positive impact on Madagascar's connectivity and tourism, providing more opportunities for travelers to discover the "hidden gem" that is Madagascar. He also thanked the Malagasy government for their partnership and support in establishing the route.

H.E Manambahoaka Valéry Ramonjavelo, Madagascar's Minister of Transports and Meteorology, welcomed the new route as a significant step forward for the development of tourism and trade between the two countries. He highlighted the positive impact of the route in introducing the world to Madagascar's touristic and cultural treasures and creating opportunities for new business streams. He also emphasized the strengthening of connectivity for the region.

Madagascar is known for its stunning natural scenery, including white sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and national parks. The island is home to three World Heritage UNESCO sites and boasts a rich biodiversity, with 5% of the planet's plant and animal species found only on the island. Visitors can engage in various activities such as hiking, trekking, quad biking, kite surfing, scuba diving, and whale watching. Animal lovers can visit Lemur's Park to see nine types of lemurs and other wildlife. Food enthusiasts can savor the traditional cuisine and local produce.

The UAE and Madagascar have been enhancing their bilateral relationship across various sectors, including commercial and logistics. The launch of the passenger flight will further strengthen mutual trade. Emirates SkyCargo, the airline's cargo arm, will support this by exporting goods via its hub in Dubai to key markets such as the UAE, China, Indonesia, the United States, and France. Emirates SkyCargo will provide 22 tonnes of bellyhold cargo capacity in and out of Antananarivo every week, transporting commodities such as fresh fruits and vegetables, vanilla, textiles, and mining products.

The Dubai-Antananarivo route will be served by the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, offering First Class suites, Business Class suites, and Economy seats. Passengers can enjoy regionally inspired multi-course menus and a wide selection of premium beverages. The award-winning inflight entertainment system, ice, offers over 6,500 channels of global entertainment in various languages.

Emirates' new flights to Madagascar are expected to provide a significant boost to the country's tourism industry and contribute to its economic growth. The convenient connectivity offered by Emirates' extensive global network will attract more international travelers to experience the unique natural attractions of Madagascar.