Emirates is set to make a significant stride in its Nordic expansion by launching a daily Airbus A350 service between Dubai and Helsinki from 1 October 2026. This strategic move introduces the only year-round, direct air connection between Finland and the United Arab Emirates, marking a pivotal development for both regions. It also opens up fresh opportunities for Africa’s tourism sector to connect with the Nordics and beyond.

The new route, operated by the advanced Airbus A350, will feature a three-class configuration—Business, Premium Economy, and Economy—accommodating up to 298 passengers. Flight EK167 will depart Dubai at 08:45, touching down in Helsinki at 14:55. The return leg, EK168, leaves Helsinki at 16:45 and arrives in Dubai at 00:20 the following day. This schedule is meticulously designed to maximize connectivity for travelers from Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, providing seamless access to Finland and onward connections across Emirates’ vast global network.

For African tourism professionals, this new service is more than just a route—it’s a gateway to Finland’s thriving tourism market, which has welcomed around 5 million international visitors in recent years. The direct link is expected to significantly stimulate demand for both leisure and business travel, especially as Helsinki continues to gain recognition as a must-visit destination. In fact, Finland has been spotlighted by Lonely Planet as a top destination for 2026, thanks to its unique blend of Arctic adventures, the Midnight Sun, and pristine natural landscapes.

Finland’s appeal lies in its 41 national parks and nature reserves, which protect a diverse array of environments—from lush green forests and Baltic islands to Arctic fells and crystal-clear lakes. Wildlife enthusiasts can look forward to encounters with reindeer, wolves, bears, lynx, and the rare Saimaa ringed seal, found exclusively in Lake Saimaa. These natural wonders, combined with Finland’s reputation as the world’s happiest country for eight consecutive years, create a compelling narrative for African tour operators seeking to diversify their offerings and tap into new market segments.

Helsinki, the Finnish capital, stands out as a vibrant urban hub that effortlessly blends modern city life with easy access to nature. The city is renowned for its design scene, culinary innovation, and the iconic Finnish sauna culture, offering visitors a holistic experience that balances wellbeing with exploration. For business travelers, Helsinki’s strategic location and dynamic economy make it an attractive destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE), further enhancing its value proposition for African partners.

Beyond tourism, the new Emirates service is poised to strengthen bilateral ties between the UAE and Finland, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, advanced technology, education, and sustainable development. Trade between the two nations is on the rise, and Emirates SkyCargo’s 16 tonnes of bellyhold capacity on each flight will facilitate the movement of high-value goods.

These goods include pharmaceuticals, electronics, machinery, perishables, and timber products. This increased cargo capacity creates new avenues for African exporters and importers to leverage Helsinki as a strategic gateway to Northern Europe and the wider EU market, streamlining supply chains and expanding market access. The A350’s operational efficiency will also contribute to a more sustainable trade link.

As Emirates deepens its presence in the Nordics, African tourism stakeholders are encouraged to explore collaborative opportunities, from joint marketing initiatives to tailored travel packages that highlight the unique experiences available in both regions. The introduction of the A350 on this route also sets a new benchmark for comfort and sustainability, aligning with global trends toward greener, more efficient air travel. With the world’s gaze turning toward Finland in 2026, now is the time for Africa’s tourism industry to position itself at the forefront of this evolving landscape, forging new partnerships and expanding its reach into one of Europe’s most dynamic and welcoming destinations.