Emirates A350. Photo: Emirates Emirates is expanding its Airbus A350 operations in South Africa, with Durban set to become the airline's third gateway in the country to receive its newest aircraft and Premium Economy cabin.
The daily service between Dubai and Durban will switch to the A350 from March 1, 2027, completing the rollout of Premium Economy across all three of the airline's South African destinations.
The aircraft will operate on flights EK 775 and EK 776, bringing Emirates' latest cabin products and onboard experience to King Shaka International Airport in KwaZulu-Natal.
Emirates introduced Premium Economy in Johannesburg and Cape Town in September 2025. According to the airline, demand for the cabin has remained consistently high over the past year, attracting both leisure and business travelers.
Safari in Durban. Photo: ShutterstockDurban is an important market for international travel, particularly among passengers visiting friends and relatives abroad. Many connect through Dubai to destinations including Thailand, Indonesia, India, France and the United Kingdom. The introduction of the A350 will allow passengers travelling from Durban to access Premium Economy throughout their long-haul journeys on eligible Emirates services.
Afzal Parambil, Emirates' Regional Manager for Southern Africa, said the airline was looking forward to welcoming Durban travellers aboard the A350 and offering its latest onboard amenities and service.
He added that the deployment reflects Emirates' continued investment in South Africa, which remains an important part of its African network.
The Airbus A350 is the newest aircraft type in Emirates' all-widebody fleet. It features redesigned cabins, updated technology and enhanced entertainment options, with an emphasis on passenger comfort and additional space.
Emirates A350 joins Mauritius route. Photo: EmiratesPremium Economy is one of the main highlights. The cabin features cream leather seats with generous legroom and recline, individual charging points, a wood-finished cocktail table and a 13.3-inch entertainment screen. The seating arrangement is 2-4-2, making it an option for both families and individual travellers seeking additional comfort on long-haul flights.
Passengers also receive dedicated check-in facilities and priority boarding at King Shaka International Airport, along with a checked baggage allowance of 35kg and 10kg of carry-on baggage.
Emirates Economy Class U Dream Headrest. Photo: EmiratesBusiness Class features a 1-2-1 configuration, giving every passenger direct aisle access. Seats convert into fully flat beds and include personal minibars and wireless charging. A dedicated snack display area is also available at the rear of the cabin.
Economy Class features a combination of sky blue, bronze and cream tones, lighter wood finishes and ambient lighting designed to create a more spacious cabin atmosphere.
All passengers will have access to Emirates' ice entertainment system, offering more than 6,500 channels of movies, television series, music, podcasts and digital newspapers. The system also supports Bluetooth headphone connectivity, allowing passengers to use their own wireless headphones.
The onboard experience includes regionally inspired menus prepared by Emirates chefs and a selection of premium beverages. South African wines will feature in the offering, including Journey's End Weather Station Sauvignon Blanc 2025 in Economy Class and Vilafonté Series C 2016 in First Class.