Emirates Airlines has been recognised for its contribution to African tourism, trade, and cultural exchange, receiving the Travel Gold Award of Excellence for “Connecting Africa to the World”. The award was presented at the Africa Tourism & Creative Economy Expo in Abuja, held in partnership with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy.
The accolade, announced in a statement from Emirates and endorsed by the airline’s Country Manager, Paulos Legesse, highlights the airline’s sustained efforts in supporting Africa’s tourism and creative industries. The event also unveiled the “Culture Meter”, a new tool designed to track the continent’s tourism performance and growth, providing data-driven insights for governments and stakeholders.
According to the organisers, Emirates earned the award for its consistent investment in tourism infrastructure, strategic partnerships with governments and tourism authorities, and promotion of cultural exchange across Africa. The airline’s work has helped attract international visitors and strengthen air connectivity between African countries and the rest of the world.
Earlier in 2025, Emirates expanded its collaboration with several African tourism authorities, including Nigeria’s Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, to position Nigeria as a top tourist destination in Africa. The airline’s initiatives align with Nigeria’s broader agenda to improve tourism infrastructure, expand hospitality offerings, and connect Nigerian travellers to global markets efficiently.
Accepting the award, Paulos Legesse said, “This recognition reflects the trust and confidence Nigerian travellers place in Emirates. Our commitment goes beyond flying passengers; we aim to deliver a seamless, world-class travel experience at every touchpoint. From onboard comfort to hospitality on the ground and our extensive global network, every journey with Emirates is designed to be exceptional.”
He added, “Since launching operations in Nigeria, Emirates has served as a gateway between Africa and Dubai, connecting Nigerian travellers to more than 150 destinations worldwide. We are dedicated to creating opportunities for Nigerians in business, leisure, education, and culture through our unmatched connectivity and service excellence.”
The Africa Tourism and Creative Economy Expo, organised by Africultour Limited in partnership with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, carried the theme: “Optimising Africa’s Comparative and Competitive Advantage for Accelerated Trade and Economic Growth.” The event brought together policymakers, tourism operators, investors, and industry leaders to explore ways to expand Africa’s tourism potential and harness the continent’s creative economy.
Chuks Akamadu, CEO of Africultour Limited, praised Emirates for its role in raising the standards of international travel and promoting regional tourism. He said, “Emirates has been pivotal in connecting Africa to the world. The airline has helped position Nigeria and other African nations as competitive destinations, creating business opportunities, attracting tourists, and fostering cultural exchange.”
The recognition comes at a time when African air travel continues to grow. According to recent IATA reports, passenger traffic in Africa rose by 7.3 percent in October 2025, showing a rebound in regional aviation and a growing appetite for tourism. Emirates’ investment in the continent, particularly through improved connectivity and customer experience, has contributed significantly to this growth.
Industry analysts say awards like this demonstrate the importance of partnerships between international airlines and African tourism authorities. They note that improved air connectivity not only drives leisure travel but also supports trade, education, and cross-border collaboration, strengthening economic development across the continent.
Emirates continues to expand its network and services in Africa, offering Nigerian travellers direct flights to Dubai and onward connections to Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The airline’s commitment to innovation, safety, and service quality remains central to its strategy of supporting Africa’s tourism, trade, and cultural sectors.
By recognising Emirates Airlines, the Travel Gold Award of Excellence underscores the impact that international carriers can have on Africa’s global connectivity, tourism growth, and economic development.
