Emirates Plans to Operate Direct Flights Between Bogotá and Dubai in Coming Years
Emirates has revealed concrete plans to establish a direct route between Bogotá and Dubai, marking a milestone in connectivity between Colombia and the United Arab Emirates. This was confirmed by Adnan Kazim, Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of the airline, in exclusive statements to Valora Analitik during the IATA Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, India.
Currently, Emirates covers the Bogotá-Dubai route with a layover in Miami. However, Kazim was clear: “Our ultimate goal is to connect the Colombian capital directly with Dubai.” This initiative is part of a broader strategy to consolidate its presence in Latin America, a region that has proven key to the growth of the Emirati group.
The Impact of a Direct Connection
A direct flight between Bogotá and Dubai would reduce travel time from the current 18 hours (with a layover) to approximately 13 hours. This significant improvement in efficiency responds to what the executive described as “exceptional demand” for the Bogotá-Miami route since its launch.
To materialize this ambitious route, Emirates is awaiting the delivery of new wide-body Boeing aircraft. However, deliveries have faced significant delays due to global supply chain issues. Despite this, Kazim estimates that the direct connection could be operational between 2026 and 2027, assuming the aircraft delivery schedule normalizes.
→ Emirates President Demands Accountability from Boeing and Airbus Over Aircraft Delivery Delays
Partnership with Avianca: Key to Expansion
A cornerstone of this strategy is the existing partnership between Emirates and Avianca. The Colombian airline serves as a connector for passengers from other cities in the country and the region, facilitating access to Emirates flights. “We have an excellent dialogue with Avianca and look forward to expanding this cooperation,” Kazim stated.
This collaboration not only strengthens domestic connectivity in Colombia but also positions the country as a strategic departure point for Latin American travelers heading to the Middle East and Asia.
Beyond Colombia: Argentina and the Caribbean in Sight
The airline’s focus is not limited to Colombia. Argentina is another priority market. Emirates already operates five weekly flights between Dubai and Buenos Aires via Rio de Janeiro and is considering increasing frequencies in the short term due to steady passenger growth, particularly during peak seasons and international events.
Kazim hinted that an official announcement regarding increased frequencies could be made in the coming months, reinforcing its presence in the Southern Cone.
In parallel, the Caribbean is also on the radar. Emirates is evaluating the establishment of a hub in the region, which it considers “underexploited” in terms of connectivity with the Middle East. The creation of this air bridge would significantly expand connection options between the Americas and Asia.
Operational Challenges and Outlook
Despite the enthusiasm, Emirates’ expansion in Latin America is not without challenges. The primary obstacle is the delayed delivery of Boeing aircraft, a situation that directly impacts the planning of new routes. Additionally, high operational costs in dollars and the volatility of local currencies also pose risks in certain markets.
Nevertheless, Kazim reiterated the company’s commitment to the region. Colombia, in particular, has already become its third-largest market in Latin America.
The future direct Bogotá-Dubai route would transform the passenger experience and have positive economic effects. Sectors such as tourism and perishable exports could benefit significantly from a faster and more efficient connection between the two regions.
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