Emirates paves the way for daily Berlin flights

Emirates has received authorization to launch daily flights from Dubai to Berlin, ending two decades of negotiations. The decision was announced during the first visit of the UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al Nahyan, to Germany, which also featured a 40-billion-euro investment package.

What has changed on the Berlin route

Prior to the decision, the UAE airline could only operate four routes in Germany: Frankfurt, Munich, Düsseldorf, and Hamburg. The inclusion of Berlin allows Emirates to offer up to seven weekly flights, with the possibility of three daily flights, adding more than 20,000 monthly seats on the Dubai–Berlin route.

German industry reaction

The decision sparked protests from representatives of the German aviation industry. BDF Executive Director Michael Engel described the measure as a "sell-out of German jobs." The Verdi trade union also criticized the decision, claiming it would harm domestic jobs and critical infrastructure.

Impact on connectivity networks

Emirates already carried 2.36 million passengers between Germany and the UAE in 2025, with 40% traveling locally between the two countries and 60% connecting in Dubai. The airline highlights that the Dubai–Berlin route will expand connectivity to destinations in Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Australasia that are not directly served by German airlines.

Competition with Lufthansa

Lufthansa has argued that allowing more Emirates flights would shift traffic and jobs from European hubs like Frankfurt and Munich to Dubai. However, Emirates asserts that its connecting route does not replace Lufthansa's direct routes, and that passengers traveling from Berlin to destinations such as Australia and Vietnam are primarily served by Emirates.

Next steps and launch expectations

Although authorization has already been granted, Emirates has not yet announced the start date for operations. The airline's president, Sir Tim Clark, stated that the company is ready to launch daily Boeing 777-300ER flights, investing over 100 million euros annually in operating costs, personnel, and airport fees.

Economic outlook for Berlin

The Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wegner, highlighted that the decision will strengthen the capital's international connections and serve as a positive signal for eastern Germany, generating investment and employment opportunities.

With information from Simple Flying, Yahoo, Travel Tomorrow.