Dubai to Colombo: Emirates adds six new weekly flights starting January 2025
Expanded schedule enhances convenience for Sri Lanka-UAE travellers
DUBAI: Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is ramping up its operations on the Colombo-Dubai route, adding a new scheduled service that will run six times a week until 31 March 2025.
With flight EK654/655, the airline is increasing capacity by 30%, directly supporting Sri Lanka’s ambitious goal of welcoming 3 million tourists in 2025.
Starting 2 January 2025, the enhanced schedule will see EK654 depart Dubai International Airport (DXB) at 10:05hrs daily, except Wednesdays, and land at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Colombo at 16:00hrs.
The return flight, EK655, will leave Colombo at 22:05hrs and arrive back in Dubai at 01:05hrs. From April, the frequency will increase to seven weekly flights, featuring a slight adjustment in departure timings.
30% capacity boost
Each flight will accommodate 360 passengers, offering 8 First Class suites, 42 Business Class seats, and 310 Economy Class seats. This upgrade brings Emirates’ total capacity on the Colombo-Dubai route to over 2,800 seats daily across four flights, enabling a seamless travel experience for both business and leisure passengers.
Additionally, the expanded service will provide cargo space for up to 160 tonnes daily, benefiting trade links between the UAE and Sri Lanka.
Emirates in Sri Lanka
Since its debut in Sri Lanka in 1986, Emirates has carried more than 12 million passengers on this route, playing a key role in boosting tourism and exports. The airline collaborates closely with Sri Lanka Tourism, working to showcase the island’s unique cultural and natural appeal to a global audience.
Sri Lanka’s tourism board is actively positioning the nation as a hub for eco-conscious travellers, highlighting its unspoiled beaches, lush forests, and rich heritage. Emirates’ increased capacity aligns perfectly with this vision, offering greater connectivity to travellers seeking new experiences.
The additional flights also cater to the rising demand for premium travel. By operating four daily flights, Emirates strengthens its position as a critical partner in achieving Sri Lanka’s tourism goals while maintaining its leadership in international air travel.