Emirates is set to introduce its latest-generation Airbus A350 aircraft on flights between Dubai and Nairobi from October 25, 2026, bringing an upgraded cabin experience and enhanced onboard features to passengers travelling to and from Kenya. The Airbus A350 will operate on EK717 and EK718, marking the first time Emirates’ newest aircraft type will serve Nairobi.
The deployment will also introduce the airline’s Premium Economy cabin to the Kenyan market for the first time. According to Emirates, the A350 has been designed with spacious and bright cabins, advanced technology, improved connectivity and enhanced entertainment options across its three cabin classes.
Premium Economy Makes Kenya Debut
The introduction of the A350 will give passengers travelling between Dubai and Nairobi access to Emirates’ Premium Economy product for the first time. The Premium Economy cabin features spacious leather reclining seats with generous seat pitch, adjustable headrests and additional legroom. Passengers will also have access to individual charging points, a wood-finished side cocktail table and a 13.3-inch entertainment screen.
The cabin also offers larger pillows and blankets, while complimentary amenity kits are available on select flights, including the Dubai-Nairobi route. Passengers will also be served Chandon Vintage Brut 2017, a sparkling wine offered exclusively by Emirates.
Enhanced Business Class Experience
The A350’s Business Class cabin is arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, giving every passenger direct access to the aisle and providing a greater degree of privacy. Each seat converts into a fully flat bed and is finished with soft cream leather. The seats also feature a personal minibar and wireless charging facilities. A dedicated snack display area at the rear of the Business Class cabin will allow passengers to access refreshments throughout the flight.
Upgraded Economy Class Cabin
The Economy Class cabin on the A350 features a new interior design using sky blue, bronze and cream tones, complemented by lighter wood finishes. Passengers will have access to it’s upgraded ice inflight entertainment system through a 13.3-inch adjustable 4K touchscreen. The seats are also equipped with leather headrests and generous seat pitch, providing additional support and legroom for passengers on the Dubai-Nairobi route.
A350 to Carry 298 Passengers
Emirates’ Airbus A350 is the newest aircraft type in the airline’s all-widebody fleet. The aircraft can accommodate 298 passengers across three cabins, Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy Class. The airline says the aircraft’s cabin design combines additional space and comfort with advanced technology and enhanced entertainment options.
Christophe Leloup, Emirates Country Manager in Kenya, said the arrival of the A350 represents a new phase for the airline’s operations in Kenya. He said the new aircraft would provide passengers with greater comfort and choice while maintaining the service experience associated with Emirates.
Third Daily Flight Strengthens Dubai–Nairobi Connectivity
The introduction of the A350 follows several recent developments in Emirates’ operations in Kenya. The airline introduced a third daily flight between Dubai and Nairobi in July, increasing the route’s frequency to 21 flights per week. The expanded schedule provides passengers with additional flexibility when travelling between Kenya and Dubai, while also offering connections through Dubai to destinations across Europe and the United States.
Emirates World Store and Flexible Payment Options
Nairobi is also home to Africa’s first Emirates World store, which opened in 2024. The store provides customers with an opportunity to explore Emirates’ products and services while accessing personalized assistance and travel services. Earlier in 2026, Emirates also introduced a split-payment option for customers in Kenya through a partnership with Cellulant. The arrangement allows travellers to combine multiple payment methods and make payments over 24-hour instalments when purchasing airfares.
Tickets Available for Booking
Tickets for travel on the Airbus A350 can be booked through Emirates’ official website and mobile application, as well as through online and offline travel agents and the Emirates World store in Nairobi. The airline has also continued to offer flexible booking arrangements for customers.
According to Emirates, tickets booked after August 10, 2026, include unlimited free date changes for travel to Dubai and one complimentary date change for travel to other destinations worldwide. The airline has also reduced refund fees across its cabins and fare types. The introduction of the A350 on the Dubai–Nairobi route is expected to further enhance Emirates’ passenger offering in Kenya while providing travellers with access to the airline’s latest aircraft, cabin products and onboard technology.
