Emirates to launch daily Dubai–Helsinki service from October 2026 - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Emirates will introduce a daily non-stop service between Dubai and Helsinki from 1 October 2026, marking a significant expansion of the airline’s presence in the Nordics. The route will provide the sole year-round, direct connection between Finland and the United Arab Emirates, enhancing travel options for both leisure and corporate travellers.

Direct connectivity and global reach

The new service will be operated by Emirates’ A350 aircraft, bringing the airline’s latest onboard products, including Premium Economy, to Finland from the inaugural flight. Flight EK167 will depart Dubai at 08:45, arriving in Helsinki at 14:55, while the return service EK168 will leave Helsinki at 16:45 and arrive in Dubai at 00:20 the following day. The schedule has been designed to facilitate smooth onward connections across Emirates’ global network, including destinations in East and Southeast Asia, Australia, Africa, the Indian Ocean, the Middle East and the GCC.

Meeting demand and growing the market

Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, said the Dubai–Helsinki route builds on existing demand currently served via other Nordic gateways. He noted that the introduction of a direct, year-round service will make travel more seamless while offering additional premium options, with potential to stimulate new demand and attract travellers who previously relied on indirect connections.

He added that Finland’s appeal as a destination combining innovation, nature and culture presents strong opportunities for tourism, trade and business ties with the UAE and beyond, supported by the deployment of the A350 for long-haul comfort.

Tourism and economic links

Tourism remains a key pillar of Finland’s economy, with around five million international visitors recorded in recent years. Emirates’ new service will connect Helsinki to more than 150 destinations worldwide, supporting inbound travel from high-growth markets in Asia, Africa, Australia and the Middle East. Finland’s reputation as a year-round destination – from Northern Lights experiences to the Midnight Sun – continues to drive global interest.

Beyond tourism, the route also underpins growing bilateral ties between Finland and the UAE in areas such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, advanced technology and sustainable development. The service will support trade flows via Emirates SkyCargo, with approximately 16 tonnes of bellyhold capacity per flight, catering to commodities including pharmaceuticals, electronics, machinery and high-value goods.

A350 operations to Helsinki

The Dubai–Helsinki route will be served by the Emirates A350, the newest aircraft type in the airline’s all-widebody fleet. Configured with 298 seats across Business, Premium Economy and Economy, the A350 offers enhanced fuel efficiency, a quieter cabin and the latest inflight technologies. Passengers can expect regionally inspired cuisine and access to more than 6,500 channels of entertainment on Emirates’ ice system.

Tickets are now available on emirates.com and through travel agents.

Image Credit: © Emirates Airlines