Hong Kong, October 21, 2026: Emirates is celebrating 35 years of operations in Hong Kong, marking a relationship that began in July 1991 with the airline’s first flight to the city.
From an initial three-times-weekly service connecting Dubai, Hong Kong and Manila, Emirates has expanded its operations to three daily flights, offering onward connectivity to more than 138 destinations worldwide through its Dubai hub.
Emirates Began Hong Kong Operations in July 1991
Emirates entered the Hong Kong market with the arrival of flight EK068 at the former Kai Tak Airport in July 1991.
The service operated three times weekly on the Dubai–Hong Kong–Manila route, making Hong Kong the airline’s 22nd destination from Dubai and its fourth in the Far East.
Over the following decades, Emirates expanded its presence through additional flight frequencies, larger aircraft and investments in passenger services.
From A380 Introduction to Three Daily Flights
A major development came in October 2010, when Emirates introduced its Airbus A380 service to Hong Kong.
In October 2013, the airline added a fourth daily Hong Kong–Dubai flight, further expanding capacity at the time.
Today, Emirates operates three daily services to Hong Kong, comprising two direct flights to Dubai and one service via Bangkok.
Through its Dubai hub, passengers can connect to more than 138 destinations, including London, Paris and Milan.
Selected Hong Kong flights, including EK380/381 and EK382/383, are scheduled to operate with Airbus A380 aircraft from October 2026.
Emirates Introduces Upgraded Cabins and Premium Economy
Emirates has continued to invest in its onboard products for Hong Kong passengers.
In 2025, the airline introduced retrofitted Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 cabins on Hong Kong services, providing updated seating and cabin interiors.
The airline also launched Premium Economy on the Hong Kong route in July 2025, expanding travel options for passengers seeking an additional cabin category between Economy and Business Class.
These developments form part of Emirates’ wider programme to modernise its passenger experience across international routes.
Investments in Hong Kong Customer Facilities
Emirates opened its dedicated Hong Kong airport lounge in 2012. The facility reopened in March 2024 following an extensive refurbishment.
In July 2024, the airline opened the Emirates Hong Kong Travel Store, its first such facility in East Asia.
The store provides customers with access to travel assistance, booking services and information about Emirates’ products.
Emirates Reaffirms Long-Term Commitment to Hong Kong
Sultan Alriyami, Emirates’ Hong Kong Area Manager, said:
“For 35 years, Hong Kong has been an important part of Emirates’ history from our first arrival at Kai Tak Airport to the introduction of new aircraft, products and experiences for our passengers. This anniversary allows us to reflect on our shared journey and look ahead towards the future. We remain committed to connecting Hong Kong with the wider world and enhancing the experience at every stage of travel. The sky is the limit.”
The anniversary highlights Emirates’ development in Hong Kong from its first service in 1991 to its current operations, supported by aircraft upgrades, Premium Economy availability and investments in local customer facilities.
