Emirates Airline has announced plans to restore operations between Lagos and Dubai, signalling a breakthrough in the long-standing diplomatic and commercial stalemate between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The airline said discussions with Nigerian authorities have progressed significantly and that it is finalising operational details required to resume passenger and cargo services.
The planned restoration will reconnect Nigeria to one of the most important aviation hubs in the Middle East after nearly two years of suspension.
Emirates’ management described Nigeria as a key market in its global network, adding that the airline remains committed to strengthening connectivity between Lagos and Dubai.
The Lagos–Dubai route, one of the busiest for African travellers before the suspension, supported both tourism and trade flows between the two economies.
The suspension of flights in 2022 followed foreign exchange repatriation challenges that affected several international airlines operating in Nigeria. The UAE’s subsequent visa restrictions deepened the disruption, impacting business travel and tourism between both countries.
The renewed engagement between President Bola Tinubu and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is seen as a turning point in restoring relations. Their discussions last year focused on reopening visa access, resolving outstanding aviation payment issues, and expanding UAE investments in Nigeria’s economy.
Analysts say the return of Emirates will boost market confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector, attract new investment, and strengthen bilateral trade.
Cargo operations are also expected to play a critical role in reviving export activities, particularly for Nigerian businesses moving goods through Dubai’s global logistics chain.
Industry experts noted that Emirates’ re-entry could increase competition on key international routes, helping stabilise ticket prices and improve service quality.
The development also signals renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s ongoing foreign exchange and aviation sector reforms.
Once final approvals are secured, Emirates is expected to release its flight schedule and ticketing information.
The airline reaffirmed its readiness to serve Nigerian passengers again and to support the broader goal of deepening economic and transport ties between both nations.