‍DALLAS — The Dubai-based (DXB) Emirates Airlines (EK) airline will offer flights to Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo (TNR), as an add-on to an existing Indian Ocean route.

The four-weekly flights between DXB and TNR will operate via a service linked to the Seychelles (SEZ). The route will be operated by a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, with 8 First Class suites, 42 Business Class seats, and 310 seats in Economy. The service will offer more choice and connectivity for travelers. It aims to drive inbound tourism and business travel to the island state. 

EK707 will depart from DXB at 08.55 and arrive in Mahe (SEZ) at 13.35. The aircraft will then continue to TNR and land at 16.50 on the same day. 

The return flight EK708 departs Antananarivo at 18.35 and arrives in SEZ at 22.20. The flight then departs SEZ at 23.50 and lands in DXB at 04.20 the next day. Flights will operate on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. 

Emirates is also discussing with Air Madagascar to offer further global connectivity to promote 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.”

Boosting Madagascar’s Tourism

The Malagasy government hopes to ramp up efforts to grow its tourism sector. It aims to do this by enticing more tourists to experience the island’s renowned biodiversity and natural attractions. Emirates is also in discussion with Air Madagascar about offering further global connectivity to promote tourism and trade.

“Emirates is ready to support Madagascar’s tourism agenda by helping bring visitors from around its network.  We thank the Malagasy government for their partnership and support in establishing this route and we look forward to welcoming passengers onboard soon.” Adnan said.

Travellers wishing to combine two holidays in one can conveniently fly between the Seychelles and Madagascar in style and comfort. Tourism is a key pillar in Madagascar’s economy, creating thousands of employment opportunities that support the country’s goal to serve one million tourists by 2028. 

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 tourist and cultural treasures of Madagascar while 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.”

Emirates’ new route will provide connectivity from over 140 points in its global network, supporting the Ministry of Tourism’s strategy to diversify target markets and introduce international travelers to the island’s many natural attractions.