DUBAI: Emirates is expanding its operations to Madagascar by introducing two additional flights per week, increasing its service from four to six weekly flights, effective 2 April 2025.
This expansion follows the successful launch of the airline’s operations to the island nation in September 2024. The decision comes in response to high demand from passengers travelling between Dubai and Antananarivo, further reinforcing the airline's commitment to supporting Madagascar's growing tourism sector and promoting it as a top destination for international visitors.
At a press conference in Antananarivo, attended by representatives from Madagascar’s Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Tourism, and Emirates, the airline announced the upcoming increase in frequency.
Increased frequencies
Since the launch of Emirates' inaugural flights to Madagascar last year, the airline has witnessed impressive demand for both inbound and outbound services. With the current four weekly flights operating at near full capacity, the airline has responded to the surge by increasing its flight schedule to accommodate the growing passenger numbers.
The move comes as Emirates seeks to meet the seasonal travel demand, which has been particularly strong from international markets like the UAE, Sri Lanka, France, and the UK.
Essa Sulaiman Ahmad, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations for West Asia and Indian Ocean, commented on the expansion: "We are thrilled to offer more flights to Madagascar in response to the rising demand. The additional services will provide travellers with greater flexibility and more options when planning trips to and from this vibrant island destination. Our increased schedule also strengthens trade ties between the UAE and Madagascar by boosting cargo capacity and encouraging further economic exchanges."
| Flight | Departure | Arrival | Day |
| EK707 (DXB/SEZ) | 08:55 | 13:35 | Daily |
| EK707 (SEZ/TNR) | 15:05 | 16:50 | All days except Mondays |
| EK708 (TNR/SEZ) | 18:35 | 22:20 | All days except Mondays |
| EK708 (SEZ/DXB) | 23:50 | 04:20 (next day) | All days except Mondays |
| EK708 (SEZ/DXB) | 21:45 | 02:15 (next day) | On Mondays |
Tourism and trade
Increased connectivity will not only support Madagascar’s tourism ambitions but also help local businesses thrive by facilitating both leisure and business travel. Emirates’ expansion will also help the island nation achieve its goal of welcoming one million tourists annually by 2028. For Madagascar’s government, the announcement is seen as a sign of growing confidence in the island’s tourism potential and its strategic positioning as a gateway for international tourists.
"Since the arrival of Emirates, we’ve witnessed positive changes in our tourism sector. The increase in flights will provide even more opportunities for tourists to visit Madagascar and experience its stunning natural beauty," said Dr Manambahoaka Valéry F. Ramonjavelo, Madagascar’s Minister of Transport and Meteorology. "Emirates has contributed greatly to strengthening the ties between the UAE and Madagascar, and the increased frequency of flights demonstrates the airline’s commitment to our country."
The tourism sector in Madagascar has much to offer, with three UNESCO World Heritage sites and a rich diversity of flora and fauna. With Emirates playing an active role in promoting these attractions, the airline has conducted familiarisation trips for key travel agencies to ensure that the island’s unique appeal is highlighted to a global audience.
Expanded capacity
The new flights will be operated using Emirates' Boeing 777 aircraft, which offer a substantial cargo capacity of up to 20 tonnes per flight. This provides additional opportunities for businesses in Madagascar to export goods and expand their international trade relationships. Emirates’ decision to increase flight frequency will further boost the country's exports and provide a more efficient logistical framework for goods entering and leaving Madagascar.
Viviane Dewa, Madagascar’s Minister of Tourism and Handicrafts, highlighted the significance of Emirates’ role in the country’s tourism strategy. "The expansion of Emirates’ services to Madagascar will help us achieve our goal of attracting more tourists. As the only direct airline linking Madagascar with Dubai, Emirates is vital to our efforts in boosting Madagascar’s global presence as a tourist destination."
In addition to connecting Madagascar with more than 140 destinations worldwide, the airline’s expanded schedule provides a seamless travel experience for visitors from a variety of markets, including Japan, Italy, and mainland China.
Ticket bookings for the expanded flights are already available through multiple channels, including Emirates’ website, mobile app, and travel agencies.