Kenya Airways launches special Nairobi–Dubai repatriation flights

Kenya Airways will operate special repatriation flights between Nairobi and Dubai this week following limited approval for operations at Dubai International Airport.

The national carrier said it will run a Nairobi–Dubai flight on 4 March and a Dubai–Nairobi flight on 5 March after securing slot approvals from Dubai Airport Management.

The airline said the development follows guidance from United Arab Emirates Government authorities allowing a small number of flights to resume operations at Dubai International Airport from 2 March strictly for repatriation purposes.

Kenya Airways clarified that the flights are not part of its regular schedule but are designated repatriation services for customers who are citizens or residents of the United Arab Emirates seeking to travel between Nairobi and Dubai.

The carrier advised passengers in Dubai not to proceed to the airport until they receive confirmed departure dates and times directly from the airline.

“These are not regular scheduled flights, rather repatriation flights for customers who are citizens or have residency in the UAE to be able to travel out of Nairobi and vice versa. We request our customers in Dubai not to proceed to DXB Airport until we have communicated a confirmed departure date and time,” Kenya Airways said in a statement.

Affected customers have been encouraged to check their flight status on the airline’s website and update their contact details through the Manage Booking option to ensure they receive timely communication regarding their travel.

The airline apologised for the inconvenience caused, noting that the safety of its crew and customers remains its highest priority. It added that it will communicate directly with affected passengers and provide necessary assistance.

Customers seeking further assistance can contact the Kenya Airways Customer Excellence Team via telephone, WhatsApp or through its social media support handle.

The airline said the situation remains fluid and that scheduled operations to Dubai have not yet resumed. It pledged to provide updates and share a confirmed schedule once approvals are received from UAE authorities.