Emirates has restarted daily flights between Dubai and Adelaide, bringing over 4,200 weekly seats to the South Australian capital.
The flights, operated on the Boeing 777-200LR, provide 302 seats split across two classes; 38 Business Class seats in a 2-2-2 configuration and 264 in Economy. This resumed service means more than 220,400 passengers can now travel between Dubai and Adelaide each year, showing Emirates’ dedication to South Australia and addressing the rising demand for travel between these regions.
The return of Emirates’ flights is expected to bring significant benefits to South Australia’s economy and tourism industry. According to estimates from the South Australian Tourism Commission, daily Emirates flights could contribute over $62 million per year in tourism spending and create more than 315 full-time jobs related to tourism.
South Australia Premier Peter Malinauskas welcomed Emirates’ return, emphasizing how the daily service brings over 220,000 potential visitors back to the state each year. “The return of Emirates to Adelaide is a big moment for South Australia,” he said. “It doesn’t just bring a world-class airline back to our state it reconnects us to the world, opening South Australia’s doors to international visitors and opportunities.”
Malinauskas highlighted that the resumed flights would strengthen the economy by creating jobs and unlocking new opportunities for trade and tourism. “With an economic impact estimated at $160 million per year, this service is vital to South Australia’s growth. It shows confidence in our future, and we’re ready to make the most of it,” he added.
South Australian Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison, expressed her excitement as well, saying, “Last night, we welcomed the first of more than 220,000 Emirates passengers who will visit South Australia each year now that this major airline is back. With Emirates easing connections between South Australia and over 140 destinations worldwide, our state is now even more attractive to international travelers. I look forward to seeing South Australia featured in Emirates’ global marketing, showing why we’re a must-visit destination.”
Emirates’ Executive Vice President of Passenger Sales, Nabil Sultan, also spoke about Australia’s importance to the airline. “Australia has always been a priority for Emirates, with nearly three decades of deep commitment,” he said. “The return of our Adelaide service reflects our continued expansion in Australia, where we now offer 70 weekly flights across five cities.”
Adelaide Airport Managing Director Brenton Cox praised the benefits of Emirates’ return, noting how the airline’s extensive global network would provide more choice and greater competition for customers. “Connecting through Dubai allows passengers to reach Europe, Africa, and the US East Coast, which not only supports Adelaide’s tourism economy but also trade and export opportunities,” he said.
With the relaunch of daily Dubai-Adelaide flights, Emirates now operates 70 weekly services from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, providing access to over 140 destinations worldwide.
On December 1, Emirates will further increase its Australian services by reinstating a second daily flight to Perth. This addition will bring the total number of weekly flights to 77, allowing for up to 68,000 passengers to travel between Australia and Dubai each week, restoring Emirates’ pre-pandemic capacity for the Australian market.
