Emirates has resumed its direct service between Edinburgh and Dubai, marking its first landing in the Scottish capital since 2020.
The airline will operate a daily flight connecting Edinburgh Airport, now part of the VINCI Airports network, with Dubai throughout the year, re-establishing a crucial link to one of the world’s premier global hubs.
The inaugural flight received a warm Scottish welcome, with members of the renowned Edinburgh Military Tattoo performing a traditional piping ceremony as the aircraft taxied to its stand.
Initially, the route will be served by a Boeing 777, with plans to introduce Emirates’ first A350 aircraft in the future.
This new addition will feature the airline’s highly-regarded Premium Economy offering and its cutting-edge Business Class cabin.
Travellers will benefit from Emirates’ extensive network spanning six continents, enhancing connectivity that will bolster Scotland’s economic and tourism sectors whilst fostering new opportunities for business relationships and trade.
Gordon Dewar, chief executive of Edinburgh Airport said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming Emirates back to Edinburgh to resume that direct connection between Scotland’s capital and one of the world’s most sought out destinations in Dubai.
“Direct connectivity to Dubai is something that will be welcomed by both business and leisure passengers, while the onward connections through the vast Emirates network also opens up a plethora of opportunities for travel.
“The return of Emirates has been one we have all been excited about and we are already looking forward to the introduction of the airline’s first A350, which offers passengers the chance to experience Emirates’ acclaimed Premium Economy product and its brand new Business Class cabin.”
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ deputy president and chief commercial officer, stated:“The U.K. is one of our most important markets, and we’re proud to reinstate our footprint in Scotland – a country that’s loved by visitors from around the world.
“Scottish customers can look forward to an elevated travel experience onboard, initially with our Boeing 777 ahead of our highly anticipated A350 arrival.
“With 14 weekly flights to and from the country – passengers can now easily connect to popular long-haul destinations such as Thailand, Australia, and of course, the vibrant city of Dubai.
“The ample cargo capacity will also help support more industries across Scotland – offering more efficient and reliable transport solutions for businesses across the region to access international markets more quickly to meet demand.
“We’re excited to be back in Scotland’s capital and look forward to welcoming our passengers back onboard.”