Emirates Set to Launch New Flight Route to Madagascar Starting September 2024

Friday, June 7, 2024

Emirates is set to initiate flights to Madagascar starting 3 September 2024, enhancing travel options and connectivity while boosting the country’s leisure and business tourism. The airline will operate four weekly flights from Dubai (DXB) to Antananarivo (TNR) via a linked service with the Seychelles.

These flights are strategically timed to facilitate seamless connections with major destinations in Europe, the Far East, West Asia, and the Middle East/GCC. Flight EK707 will leave Dubai for the Seychelles at 0855hrs, arrive in Mahe at 1335hrs*, and proceed to Antananarivo, landing at 1650hrs. The return flight, EK708, will take off from Antananarivo at 1835hrs, reach Mahe at 2220hrs, and depart for Dubai at 2350hrs, arriving at 0420hrs the following day. The service will be available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. This schedule also offers travelers the unique opportunity to enjoy dual holidays in the Seychelles and Madagascar with convenience and luxury.

Tourism plays a crucial role in Madagascar’s economy by generating significant employment opportunities and supporting the nation’s ambition to attract one million tourists by 2028. Emirates’ new route will link Madagascar with over 140 locations worldwide, aiding the Ministry of Tourism’s efforts to diversify its market reach and showcase the island’s diverse natural wonders. Furthermore, Emirates is currently negotiating with Air Madagascar to enhance global travel links that will foster tourism and trade.

Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said, “Madagascar has historically been underserved, despite growing appetite from travellers for authentic ecotourism experiences. Emirates understands the importance of offering customers efficient connectivity and premium travel experiences and we’re confident that this new service will have a positive impact on boosting Madagascar’s connectivity, offering more opportunities for travellers to discover the hidden gem that is Madagascar, in addition to opening new international business opportunities.

The Malagasy’s government is spearheading efforts to grow its tourism sector by enticing more tourists to experience the island’s renowned biodiversity and natural attractions. Emirates is ready to support Madagascar’s tourism agenda by helping bring visitors from around its network.  We thank the Malagasy’s government for their partnership and support in establishing this route and we look forward to welcoming passengers onboard soon.”

H.E Manambahoaka Valéry Ramonjavelo, Madagascar’s Minister of Transports, and Meteorology said: “Our agreement between the United Arab Emirates and Madagascar opens the way to this new Antananarivo-Dubai route and represents a significant step forward for the development of tourism and trade between the two countries. This is extremely positive news in more than one way, as it opens a new door between Madagascar and the world, through the Dubai hub, the biggest international hub in passenger numbers.

It will also introduce the whole world to the incredible touristic and cultural treasures of Madagascar, while also creating opportunities for new business streams. The association of our national airline combined with this new Emirates route it will strengthen connectivity for our regions.”

Madagascar, the fourth largest island in the world, is often called Treasure Island due to its breathtaking landscapes that range from pristine white beaches and sparkling emerald waters to dense rainforests, national parks, and fossil-studded limestone plateaus. It is also the site of three UNESCO World Heritage sites.

For the adventurous, the island offers a variety of thrilling activities including hiking, trekking, quad biking, kite surfing, scuba diving, and whale watching. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore Lemur’s Park to see nine distinct species of lemurs and other diverse wildlife and plants. Culinary explorers can delight in the island’s traditional dishes and fresh local produce.

With a unique ecological footprint, Madagascar houses 5% of all unique global plant and animal species, promoting ecotourism to conserve its rich biodiversity. This allows visitors to deeply engage with the natural and cultural riches of the island in an environmentally respectful manner.

The relationship between the UAE and Madagascar has strengthened, enhancing trade and cooperation across various sectors like commerce and logistics. The initiation of passenger flights has bolstered this bond, with Emirates SkyCargo playing a pivotal role by ferrying goods from Madagascar to major global markets including the UAE, China, Indonesia, the USA, and France via Dubai.

This entrepreneurial vigor is evident as more Malagasy companies reach international markets. Emirates SkyCargo offers a substantial cargo capacity, facilitating the export of commodities such as fruits, vegetables, vanilla, textiles, and minerals. These goods are transported efficiently using the airline’s specialized logistics solutions.

The route from Dubai to Antananarivo is operated by the Boeing 777-300ER, featuring luxurious accommodations including 8 First Class suites, 42 Business Class suites, and 310 Economy seats. Passengers can enjoy gourmet multi-course meals inspired by regional flavors, an extensive selection of beverages, and access to over 6,500 channels of global entertainment in various languages through Emirates’ ice, the airline’s premier inflight entertainment system.