By Nomazulu Moyo
Johannesburg, South Africa – November 18, 2025 – Emirates and South African Airways are expanding their long-standing partnership. The airlines announced a new codeshare agreement and more flights between Dubai and South Africa.
The two airlines have worked together for nearly 30 years. Now, they plan to make traveling easier for passengers. The new agreement will allow travelers to buy a single ticket and have their baggage checked through to their final destination. Emirates passengers will be able to fly from Johannesburg to three South African cities—Cape Town, Durban, and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)—as well as to thirteen other regional destinations across Africa, including Lagos, Lusaka, and Mauritius.
This new partnership will help both airlines reach more travelers. “Since signing in 1997, our collaboration has created reliable connectivity for passengers,” said Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer. “Partnerships like this are essential for us to serve our customers traveling in and out of the market.”
South African Airways’ CEO, Professor M. John Lamola, added, “This enhanced codeshare agreement shows our commitment to providing seamless travel and strengthening South Africa’s position as an important hub for flights across Africa and beyond.”
In addition, Emirates will increase the number of flights to Cape Town. Starting July 1, 2026, there will be a third daily flight from Dubai to Cape Town, operated with a Boeing 777 aircraft. This will add more than 600 seats each day for travelers heading to or from South Africa’s most popular city.
The new flight schedule offers more options for travelers, including convenient timings for business trips and leisure travel. The evening flight allows passengers to connect easily to destinations in Asia, Europe, and the United States.
Emirates has been flying to South Africa since 1995. The airline has recently upgraded its planes and added new services to improve passenger comfort. The new partnership with South African Airways is expected to boost travel and trade opportunities across the region.
Tickets for the new flights and codeshare services can be booked on the airlines’ websites or through travel agents. The airlines say they are committed to making travel between Dubai and South Africa more seamless and convenient for everyone.
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