Emirates Marks 10 Years of Bologna–Dubai Route with Connectivity and Regional Growth Highlights
November marked a month of activity and milestones for Emirates. Shortly after the Dubai Airshow and events such as the Nitto ATP Finals, the airline is recognising ten years of its direct route between Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) and Dubai International Airport (DXB). The milestone reflects a decade of connectivity, during which more than 1.36 million passengers have travelled on the route, strengthening economic and cultural links between Emilia-Romagna and global markets.
Since its launch, the Bologna–Dubai route has facilitated 1.36 million passengers across 5,738 flights. The service has played an important role in connecting Emilia-Romagna to destinations across the world.
Travellers from Bologna have used the route to reach destinations including Dhaka, Bangkok, Manila, Colombo, the Maldives, Melbourne and Tokyo. At the same time, the region has welcomed visitors from a broad mix of international origins, contributing to cultural exchange and tourism.
Passenger trends provide insight into travel patterns. Solo travellers represent the largest segment at 41%, often booking short stays of under two weeks to destinations such as Dubai, Thailand or Australia. Couples account for 25%, mainly for leisure travel, while families represent 21%, travelling to destinations ranging from Dubai to the Maldives.
For the summer period from July to September 2025, flights EK93/EK94 recorded an average Premium Economy load factor of 51.5%, indicating steady demand only months after its introduction. The average fare for a return ticket from Bologna was €1,236 with an average stay of 8.5 days. Travellers arriving in Bologna recorded an average fare of €1,625 and an average stay of 19.6 days, reflecting the city’s growing appeal.
Regional Significance: Bologna as a Strategic Connector
The Bologna–Dubai route aligns closely with regional development priorities. Bologna Airport has recorded sustained growth over the past decade, supported in part by Emirates’ service, positioning it as an important hub for international travel and business activity.
Emirates also supports the local automotive cluster, Motor Valley, home to brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Dallara, Maserati and Pagani. The airline transports vehicles, components and goods linked to the region’s automotive, fashion, food, pharmaceutical and manufacturing sectors, contributing to the global presence of the “Made in Italy” label.
A Decade of Key Milestones
November 3, 2015:
The first Emirates flight from Dubai arrived in Bologna, opening a new connection between the UAE and northern Italy.
2020: Cargo operations on the route helped ensure continuity of essential goods during the global pandemic, underlining the route’s logistical relevance.
July 2024: Emirates welcomed its one-millionth passenger on the route.
June 21, 2025: The A350 aircraft was introduced on the Bologna–Dubai service, supporting efficiency and future capacity planning.
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