Emirates is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its flight between Munich and Dubai, a route that is proving to be strategically important and commercially successful. With the use of the Airbus A380, Emirates underlines its ongoing commitment to the German market and promotes tourism and economic cooperation between southern Germany and the world.
Historical milestones of the air connection
On November 2, 1999, an Emirates Airbus A310 landed at Munich Airport for the first time, making Munich the second German departure airport for the airline after Frankfurt. Due to high demand, the Munich-Dubai route was expanded to two daily flights with a Boeing 777-300ER in March 2003. Emirates has been using the Airbus A380 from Munich since 2011 and was the first foreign airline to introduce the world’s largest passenger aircraft into scheduled operations in Germany.
Success and influence of the Munich hub
Since the start of Munich flights, Emirates has carried over 9.4 million passengers on more than 34,600 flights between Munich and Dubai. The two daily A380 flights provide a seamless connection to the airline’s global route network, which covers over 140 destinations. The location has established itself as an important hub for business travelers and tourists, who benefit from excellent connectivity.
Economic impact on the region
The flight connection contributes significantly to economic growth in southern Germany by promoting inbound tourism from markets whose visitors tend to spend more and stay longer. These effects create significant sales and jobs in the Bavarian tourism industry. According to Volker Greiner, Vice President North & Emirates’ Central Europe, the 25th anniversary of Munich operations confirms the airline’s commitment to the region.
Exclusive amenities for passengers
At 965 square meters, the Emirates Lounge at Munich Airport is the largest of its kind for a foreign airline at the location. The lounge offers free access to first class and business class passengers as well as loyalty program members. Guests enjoy a rich buffet and warm dishes from the premium caterer Do & Co, which further enhances the travel experience.
Founded in 1985, Emirates has grown into one of the world’s leading airlines with a comprehensive route network. Known for its world-class service offerings, the company operates the world’s largest fleet of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s. Emirates remains committed to driving travel and providing exceptional travel experiences to its customers.
Emirates SkyCargo strengthens Bavaria’s trade
Emirates SkyCargo is praised by the airline for its crucial role in promoting trade between Bavaria and international markets. With a freight capacity of up to 60 tonnes per route per day, it enables important exports and imports that support the region’s economic growth.
Significant trade relationships
Emirates SkyCargo is described as the holder of important trade relationships between Bavaria and the international world. The main export goods from Munich include car parts, medicines, textiles, electronics and paper products. These goods find their way to various global markets, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Malaysia and Australia. The airline’s daily air freight services are described as crucial to the timely delivery of high-quality products. This contributes significantly to local economic development.
Imports and exports in detail
Leather goods, medicines and clothing are mentioned as key products for Bavaria’s import trade. The airline Emirates reported that it had transported more than 65,200 tons of cargo between Munich and Dubai over the last five years. This includes both full-freighter and passenger flights, which also offer a daily seating capacity of 1,034. Dubai’s popularity as a travel destination is underlined by a 30 percent increase in flight bookings in summer 2024 compared to 2023.
Milestones in Emirates history in Munich
Emirates began its direct flights between Munich and Dubai on November 2, 1999 and claims to have carried over 9.4 million passengers on over 34,600 flights since then. A significant milestone in 2011 was the introduction of the Airbus A380 on the daily route. Additionally, Emirates has cemented its presence in the region through partnerships such as the BMW International Open and cultural events, such as Oktoberfest-themed menus since 2017.
Munich as a developing market for Emirates
It has been clear for several years that Munich is developing into an important market for Emirates. With 31 employees in the city and an employee base of German pilots and flight attendants, the company relies on deep regional roots and a long-term growth strategy. Emirates highlights that expanding trade capacity not only promotes trade but also contributes to job creation in the region.
Emirates is a leading global airline that has been providing quality air and cargo services for decades. With a comprehensive fleet and networks, Emirates is recognized as a driving force in the aviation sector for its commitment to promoting international trade and connecting markets. The company strives to deliver innovation and excellent service while promoting sustainable practices.
