Emirates has resumed its daily flights between Adelaide and Dubai, operating a Boeing 777-200LR on the route. This service adds over 4,200 weekly seats connecting the South Australian capital with Dubai. Passengers can choose from two cabin classes on the Boeing 777-200LR. The aircraft features 38 Business Class seats arranged in a 2-2-2 layout, plus 264 Economy Class seats.
This daily service will enable more than 220,400 travelers to fly between the two cities annually, showcasing Emirates’ dedication to meeting growing travel demand. This service resumption now marks the complete restoration of Emirates Australian network.
The service’s revival promises substantial benefits for South Australia’s economy. According to the South Australian Tourism Commission, these direct flights are expected to generate over $62 million yearly in tourism spending. The restoration of the flight connections will create more than 315 full-time tourism jobs.
The cargo capacity will boost trade significantly between South Australia and global markets, particularly in the Middle East, Europe, and USA. Each flight can carry 14 tonnes of cargo, totaling 196 tonnes weekly. Main exports will include seafood (fish and mussels), meat products, fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, machinery parts, clothing, and electronics. Freight exports should reach $98 million annually, bringing the total economic benefit to $160 million.
South Australia Premier Peter Malinauskas highlighted the service’s importance: Emirates’ return means more than just welcoming back a premium airline. We’re opening South Australia to the world, sharing our state with over 220,000 potential visitors yearly.
This Dubai connection will boost our economy, create jobs, and expand trade opportunities. With its projected $160 million annual impact, including $62 million in tourism revenue, this service represents a strong vote of confidence in our state.
Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison also welcomed the development. The first flight marks the beginning of Emirates bringing over 220,000 passengers annually to South Australia. This service makes our state more accessible to key international markets by connecting us with more than 140 global destinations.
Emirates will play a crucial role in growing our international market, currently valued at $1.3 billion. Their global marketing will showcase South Australia as a must-visit destination. Nabil Sultan, Emirates’ Executive Vice President of Passenger Sales and Country Management, stated: “Australia remains crucial for Emirates, with nearly 30 years of commitment. Adelaide’s return strengthens our Australian network, now offering 70 weekly flights across five cities.
We thank the South Australian Tourism Commission and Adelaide Airport for supporting our return. These flights enhance trade and provide South Australians world-class travel experiences through our Dubai hub to over 140 destinations.
Adelaide Airport Managing Director Brenton Cox emphasized the benefits: Emirates’ extensive network offers our customers more choice and competition, with convenient connections through Dubai to Europe, Africa, and the US East Coast. This service will attract visitors, support our tourism and broader economy, and create export opportunities for local producers.
