Minister of Tourism Welcomes New Flight Service from Emirates Airline

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has welcomed new flight service from Emirates Airline which will create significant tourism and economic opportunities for Jamaica. The announcement follows several strategic meetings and partnerships led by the Minister and key tourism stakeholders.

“Air connectivity between Jamaica and the Gulf Corporation Council (GCC) region, which includes Dubai, has been a major strategic push to position the island’s tourism sector for further growth.  The new air service represents a landmark moment for Jamaica’s tourism sector, offering unprecedented global access and potential for economic growth. Emirates’ move signals a major commitment to establishing Jamaica as a premier international destination,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmnd Bartlett.

Starting next month, Emirates Airline will begin steps to create easier direct flights between Jamaica and Dubai through a codeshare partnership with German Airline Condor. The aim is to ultimately begin nonstop service.

“This is an exciting time for Jamaica’s tourism and highlights the importance of strategic partnerships over the long term.”

“We will now be able to tap into this very lucrative market to attract more high-value visitors,” said Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Senator Delano Seiveright.

The Emirates’ route from Dubai to Montego Bay, which is loaded for sale in the airline’s Global Distribution System, is expected to significantly increase international visitor numbers for Jamaica, particularly from the Middle East. The new air service is also anticipated to generate direct and indirect jobs across aviation, hospitality, and other related support industries.

“We have nurtured and maintained strong relationships with our partners in this region and this announcement is one of the fruits of our labour. Jamaica is ready to welcome more visitors from the region who I am sure will fall in love with our authentic hospitality,” said Director of Tourism, Donovan White.

Emirates will provide Jamaica with critical direct connections to global markets, enhancing trade opportunities and positioning the island as a strategic international hub. The proposed route will create seamless connections between Jamaica and key global markets, including Dubai, major European cities, and strategic international business

JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD  

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica’s national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. JTB offices are also located in Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are in Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, Mumbai, Tokyo and Paris.

Jamaica is home to some of the world’s best accommodations, attractions and service providers that continue to receive prominent global recognition. In 2025, TripAdvisor® ranked Jamaica as the #13 Best Honeymoon Destination, #11 Best Culinary Destination, and #24 Best Cultural Destination in the World. In 2024, Jamaica was declared ‘World’s Leading Cruise Destination’ and ‘World’s Leading Family Destination’ for the fifth consecutive year by the World Travel Awards, which also named the JTB the ‘Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board’ for the 17th consecutive year.

Jamaica earned six Travvy Awards, including a gold for ‘Best Travel Agent Academy Program’ and silver for ‘Best Culinary Destination – Caribbean’ and ‘Best Tourism Board – Caribbean’. The destination also received bronze recognition for ‘Best Destination – Caribbean’, ‘Best Wedding Destination – Caribbean’, and ‘Best Honeymoon Destination – Caribbean’. Additionally, Jamaica received a TravelAge West WAVE award for ‘International Tourism Board Providing the Best Travel Advisor Support’ for a record-setting 12th time.

For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB’s Website at visitjamaica.com or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422).  Follow the JTB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. View the JTB blog at visitjamaica.com/blog/.

SEEN IN MAIN IMAGE:  Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett (L) meeting with Adman Kazim, Chief Commercial Officer and other Senior Executives of Emirates Airline during Arabian Travel Market in Dubai on May 9, 2024.

Media Contact:

Kiwayne Jacobs

Jamaica Tourist Board

kjacobs@visitjamaica.com