On June 2, 2025, Da Nang, a picturesque coastal city in central Vietnam, achieved a significant milestone in its aviation connectivity with the arrival of Emirates Airline’s inaugural flight from Dubai. The flight, designated EK370, transited through Bangkok and landed at Da Nang International Airport carrying 333 passengers. This momentous event was celebrated with a special ceremony organized by the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in collaboration with Emirates Airline, Danang International Terminal Investment and Operation JSC (AHT), and Sun Group.

The new route connecting Dubai to Da Nang represents more than just an air link; it opens up exciting prospects for tourism, trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Emirates now operates four weekly flights on this route, enhancing accessibility for international visitors, particularly from key markets in the Middle East, Europe, North America, and Africa. This addition to Emirates’ network reinforces Da Nang’s global presence and is expected to amplify its cultural and economic footprint.

The Emirates flight not only increases the flow of international travelers but also plays a pivotal role in the city’s integration into the global network, as stated by Tran Chi Cuong, Vice Chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee. The direct connection to Dubai, a major international hub, enables access to Emirates’ extensive network of over 140 destinations worldwide. This strategic air route significantly reduces travel time between Da Nang and several global markets, facilitating visits from both tourists and businesspeople, and is anticipated to stimulate the local economy.

Since early 2023, Da Nang has prioritized establishing a direct air connection to Dubai, with city officials engaging in extensive discussions with Emirates representatives. Their efforts culminated in January 2025, when Emirates confirmed its plans to initiate the route. Nguyen Vu Quynh Anh, Deputy CEO of Sun Group, expressed optimism about the launch, noting that this air link would attract high-end travelers, particularly from the Middle East, Europe, and North America, drawn by the city’s cultural heritage and luxury tourism offerings.

To cater to the specific needs of Middle Eastern tourists, Sun Group has introduced tailored services, including halal dining options and dedicated prayer rooms at Sun World Ba Na Hills. The group plans to collaborate with Emirates on exclusive promotions and packages, enhancing Da Nang’s appeal to this important market. This partnership also strengthens the relationship between Da Nang and Emirates, facilitating co-marketing efforts to promote the city to travelers across the airline’s global network.

Looking ahead, Sun Group remains integral to Da Nang’s growth as a leading global destination. With plans for major projects like the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) and a 2 000-room hotel complex in Ba Na, the city aims to expand its appeal further. The increasing demand for luxury tourism is being met with developments tailored to an affluent, international clientele, ensuring that Da Nang maintains its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural authenticity.

For Emirates, this new route is a significant addition to their extensive international network. Nabil Sultan, Executive Vice President of Emirates’ Passenger Sales, highlighted Da Nang’s unique charm, blending cultural richness, natural beauty, and emerging economic potential. He praised the collaborative efforts of the Vietnamese Government, Da Nang International Airport, and local tourism authorities in establishing this partnership.

The inauguration of the Dubai – Da Nang flight route marks a transformative moment for the city’s travel and tourism industry. With enhanced global connectivity, Da Nang is poised to become an increasingly attractive destination for international visitors, boosting the local economy and raising the city’s profile on the global stage. As Emirates continues to expand its network, Da Nang is well-positioned to benefit from this strategic air link, promising to bring both leisure and business travelers closer to its extraordinary offerings.