Emirates to fly to Durban from December

Dubai: Following the successful start of operations in Cape Town, Emirates will expand its presence in South Africa with the introduction of daily flights to Durban from December 1.

The new service - Emirates' third direct connection between Dubai and South Africa - underscores its commitment to the South African market, and comes close on the heels of the launch of its third-daily service to Johannesburg in 2007 and daily service to Cape Town earlier this year.

Durban lies in the heart of KwaZulu Natal, otherwise known as the Zulu Kingdom, and is a fascinating blend of British, Zulu and Indian history.

The Golden Mile developed as a tourist attraction in the 1970s, adds a 'Miami' feel to the city of Durban and provides a happy playground for glorious fun in the sun. Enchanting, vibrant and historic - Durban promises an ideal family vacation with luxury resorts, glorious beaches and green country treats.

Durban's location on the east coast makes it a natural hub for trade with the Indian Ocean and Asia Pacific countries, boosting its status as Africa's largest port and the world's ninth busiest.

Cargo

Currently handling 50 per cent of the country's break-bulk cargo and 65 per cent of its containerised traffic, Durban will play a catalytic role in strengthening trade movement between the UAE and South Africa.

Durban, Emirates 16th passenger destination in Africa, will accelerate the Dubai-based airline's weekly capacity into the continent to 93 flights.

Tim Clark, President of Emirates airline, noted: "Our flights will provide travellers from key cities in Europe, the Indian subcontinent and Middle East a direct access to Durban and will strengthen inbound tourist arrivals. At the same time it will open up a direct link to over 90 global destinations for Durban's outbound travellers who can now avoid travelling via Johannesburg."