Emirates celebrates 35 years in Hong Kong. Photo: Emirates Emirates is marking 35 years of service to Hong Kong, a route that began in July 1991 and has grown into a key link between the city, Dubai and destinations around the world.
The airline’s first flight to Hong Kong, EK068, landed at the former Kai Tak Airport in July 1991. Operating three times a week on a Dubai-Hong Kong-Manila route, the service made Hong Kong Emirates’ 22nd destination from Dubai and its fourth in the Far East.
“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,” said Sultan Alriyami, Emirates’ Hong Kong Area Manager. He added that the airline remains committed to connecting the city with the wider world.
Emirates has expanded its presence in Hong Kong over the years. It introduced its Airbus A380 service to the city in October 2010, followed by a fourth daily flight between Hong Kong and Dubai in October 2013.
In July 2024, the airline opened the Emirates Hong Kong Travel Store, its first in East Asia, giving customers a dedicated location for travel-related services. In 2025, passengers flying from Hong Kong also gained access to Emirates’ updated Boeing 777 and A380 cabins.
Today, Emirates operates three daily flights serving Hong Kong, including two direct services to Dubai and a third flight via Bangkok. From Dubai, passengers can connect to more than 138 destinations worldwide, including popular European cities such as London, Paris and Milan.
The airline is also deploying its Airbus A380 on selected Hong Kong services. From October, flights EK380/381 and EK382/383 are scheduled to be operated by the aircraft.
Alongside its onboard offering, Emirates has invested in its ground services in Hong Kong. Its dedicated lounge, which first opened in 2012, reopened in March 2024 following an extensive refurbishment.
In July 2025, the airline introduced its Premium Economy cabin on the Hong Kong route, adding another option for passengers seeking an upgraded experience between Hong Kong and Dubai.
The anniversary highlights Emirates’ long-standing presence in one of Asia’s major aviation hubs as it continues to connect Hong Kong travellers with its global network.