In Kenya, according to the Tourism Research Institute, the
sector is a major economic contributor to the country's Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) at 10.4% and directly employs 990,000 jobs (KTSA2019). The sector is also
instrumental in the social-economic well being of the country's citizens, with
multiplier effects in trade, agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and
transport among others.
As part of the series of events to launch the Mombasa- Dubai
route, National carrier Kenya Airways (KQ) hosted tourism and travel
stakeholders at the JW Marriott Hotel in Dubai to celebrate the inaugural
flight from Dubai to Mombasa. In attendance was the Kenyan Ambassador to the
UAE republic, H.E. Kariuki Mugwe, Kenya Airways Chief Financial Officer Hellen
Mathuka, Members of the Transport and Infrastructure committee from Kenya
Parliament, various stakeholders amongst them leading travel and tour operators
from Mombasa and Dubai, and many others.
Mombasa and adjacent townships receive over one third of
international tourist arrivals to Kenya. By connecting Dubai to Mombasa
directly, the travel time is effectively reduced thereby making Kenya the most
attractive destination for Middle East holiday seekers.
According to the Kenyan Tourism and Wildlife Ministry
strategy report for 2021- 2025, Kenya is working on building on four key
coastal zones: a multi-experience itineraries in Mombasa, eco-friendly
exclusive and secluded getaways in Lamu, adventure sporting in Malindi/ Watamu
and family friendly, multi-entertainment offers in Diani.
The first Kenya Airways Dubai-Mombasa direct flight touched
down at the Moi International Airport, Mombasa at 11. 20 am on Friday morning.
On hand to welcome the tourists on board upon arrival was the Principal
Secretary, State Department for Tourism, John Ololtuaa, Principal Secretary
State Department of Culture & Heritage, Ummi Bashir, management and staff
of Kenya Airport Authority, Kenya Airways, Mombasa County and various other
stakeholders.
The direct flight is a deliberate move to position Kenya for in-bound arrivals from United Arab Emirates (UAE) market both for leisure and business opportunities. In 2021, the country received close to 11,000 tourists from the Middle East, an increase from previous years.
The new route will not only position Mombasa as an important
global tourism hub, but also connect Kenya and the UAE for tighter relations as
we open up new opportunities for tourism, trade, and business
Earlier on, Kenya Airways Chief Commercial and Customer
Officer, Julius Thairu said, " As players within the industry, we want to
ensure our tourism hubs attract more international travelers and the Mombasa-Dubai
route is our way of honoring this. With this route opening, we expect to
capitalize on the opportunities between Kenya and the UAE and to give our
guests direct access to the wonders of the coastal region's tourism."
Mombasa is a picturesque port city and popular tourist
destination for those seeking sun, sand and rest along the white sandy beaches
stretching from mainland Mombasa all the way to Diani, Watamu, all through to
Lamu.
KQ will operate a Boeing 737-800, four times a week. Flights
are open for booking via KQ's website, www.kenya-airways.com , travel agents
and Online Travel Agents (OTAs).
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