Emirates returns to Edinburgh with a daily service

Emirates has arrived in the Scottish capital for the first time since 2020. The renowned Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo welcomed the Emirates Boeing 777, mesmerizing passengers with an impressive musical performance on the ground. Edinburgh is now Emirates' eighth destination in the UK. This daily service will complement the airline’s existing daily flight to Glasgow, providing travellers with 14 weekly flights to and from the country.

Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, said: “The UK is one of our most important markets, and we’re proud to reinstate our footprint in Scotland – a country visitors worldwide love.  Scottish customers can look forward to an elevated travel experience onboard, initially with our Boeing 777 ahead of our highly anticipated A350 arrival. With 14 weekly flights to and from the country - passengers can now easily connect to popular long-haul destinations such as Thailand, Australia, and of course, the vibrant city of Dubai.

The ample cargo capacity will also help support more industries across Scotland, offering more efficient and reliable transport solutions for businesses across the region to access international markets more quickly and meet demand. We’re excited to return to Scotland’s capital and look forward to welcoming our passengers back onboard.”

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Emirates back to Edinburgh to resume that direct connection between Scotland's capital and one of the world's most sought out destinations in Dubai. Direct connectivity to Dubai is something that business and leisure passengers will welcome, while the onward connections through the vast Emirates network also open up many travel opportunities.  The return of Emirates has been one we have all been excited about. We are already looking forward to the introduction of the airline's first A350, which offers passengers the chance to experience Emirates' acclaimed Premium Economy product and its brand new Business Class cabin.”

Boosting Tourism

Emirates will play a vital role in enhancing tourism in Scotland. According to Visit Scotland, the country welcomed 4 million international visitors in 2023, a 23% increase compared to 2022. This influx contributed £3.59 billion to the economy. Emirates' flight operations to Scotland will help attract more visitors from key markets such as Australia and India and from over 140 destinations in the airline's global network. This will raise awareness of Scotland’s unique experiences and stunning landscapes.

Boosting Trade

Emirates' daily flight to Edinburgh will enhance cargo capacity, allowing Emirates SkyCargo, the airline's cargo division, to transport 16 tonnes of cargo on each flight. This will support local businesses, strengthen trade connections with global markets, and facilitate the shipment of high-value, time-sensitive goods such as salmon, shellfish, and whisky.

Connecting UK to the World

Emirates operates 133 weekly flights to the UK across eight destinations, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Stansted, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, and Glasgow. The airline utilizes a fleet including Emirates A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft. Passengers can enjoy regionally inspired gourmet meals, a premium selection of beverages, and a wide array of inflight entertainment on the ice system, featuring up to 6,500 channels of on-demand content.

The daily service to Edinburgh departs Dubai at 14:50 local time and arrives in Edinburgh at 19:05 local time. The return flight leaves Edinburgh at 20:40 and arrives in Dubai at 08:05.

Award-Winning Streak

Emirates is enjoying a successful year, receiving over 20 prestigious awards worldwide. These accolades include recognitions from AirlineRatings.com, the Airline Excellence Awards, Pax International Magazine Awards, Business Traveller Middle East Awards, World Travel Awards, International Loyalty Awards, and the Skytrax World Airline Awards.

Recently, Emirates was named the 'World’s Best Airline' by Telegraph Travel, ranking first among 90 global carriers. The airline excelled in various criteria, including punctuality, baggage allowance, route network, value of its rewards program, and onboard meals.

Additionally, Emirates received the title of 'Best International Airline' at Forbes Travel Guide’s Air Travel Awards last month. The airline secured four other accolades: 'Best Culinary Program,' 'Best First Class,' 'Best In-Flight Cocktail Lounge,' and 'Best International Airline Lounge.' According to YouGov’s US Airlines Report 2024, Emirates has the “most satisfied customers among US flyers,” reinforcing its 'fly better' brand promise.