Kenya Airways to operate Nairobi–Dubai repatriation flights after limited reopening of Dubai

Kenya Airways (KQ) will operate special repatriation flights between Nairobi and Dubai this week following limited approvals by authorities in the United Arab Emirates.

The airline said it will operate a Nairobi–Dubai flight on March 4, 2026, and a Dubai–Nairobi flight on March 5, 2026, after receiving slot approvals from Dubai Airport Management.

The development comes after UAE authorities allowed a limited resumption of operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB) beginning March 2, strictly for repatriation purposes.

KQ emphasized that the services are not regular scheduled flights, but special operations intended to facilitate travel for customers who are citizens or residents of the UAE seeking to travel between Nairobi and Dubai.

The airline urged customers in Dubai not to proceed to DXB until they receive confirmed departure dates and times.

Affected passengers have been advised to check their flight status on the airline’s website and update their contact information through the “Manage Booking” portal to enable direct communication regarding travel arrangements.

Kenya Airways also confirmed that scheduled operations to Dubai have not yet resumed, noting that the situation remains fluid.

The carrier said it will share further updates and a confirmed schedule once additional approvals are granted by UAE authorities.

The airline apologized for the inconvenience caused, reiterating that the safety of its crew and passengers remains its top priority.

Customers requiring assistance have been directed to contact the airline’s Customer Excellence Team via phone, WhatsApp, or its official social media channels.

“Should you need further assistance please contact our Customer Excellence Team at +254 711 024 747, WhatsApp +254 705 474 747, or via X @KQSuport.”

Dubai is one of Kenya Airways’ key Middle East routes, serving both passenger and cargo traffic between East Africa and the Gulf region.