Dubai-based budget airline, flydubai, is set to commence direct flights to Mombasa on January 17, 2024, marking a significant development eight years after it was granted rights to do so by former Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia in 2016.

This move will establish flydubai as the inaugural national carrier to offer direct flights connecting the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the Kenyan coastal city. As of now, the airline plans to operate flights to Moi International Airport four times weekly, specifically on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. These flights will depart from Terminal Three at Dubai International Airport (DXB).

According to flydubai, passengers can expect return business class fares from Dubai to Mombasa, starting at AED4,200 (equivalent to Sh165,950). Meanwhile, economy class lite fares will kick off at AED1,600 (translating to Sh63,219). For travelers interested in business class, return fares will begin at $1,500 (equivalent to Sh217,695), while economy class lite fares will be available from $500 (or Sh72,565).